Nike Air Max Torch 4

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91%
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Nike Air Max Torch 4: Review

β€œA comfortable and supportive trail running shoe with distinctive Air Max cushioning.”

Overview


The Nike Air Max Torch 4 is a running shoe designed to provide a comfortable and supportive experience for runners. This shoe stands out for its distinctive Air Max cushioning technology, which offers a unique blend of impact reduction and energy return.

Key Features:

  • Air Max cushioning: Utilizes air instead of traditional materials for heel cushioning, aiming to reduce impact and enhance comfort.
  • Phylon midsole: Offers a lightweight and responsive ride, contouring to the foot for better underfoot support.
  • Breathable mesh upper: Ensures ventilation and a snug fit, keeping feet cool and dry during runs.
  • Durable BRS 1000 carbon rubber outsole: Provides traction and durability across various terrains.

The Nike Air Max Torch 4 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and impact reduction for their daily runs. Its durable construction and versatile outsole make it suitable for different running environments, while the Air Max technology offers a cushioned and responsive experience.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 91%. This puts it in the highest rated 10% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the most expensive 40% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Nike Air Max Torch 4


The Nike Air Max Torch 4 has recieved attention for its comfort and support, particularly due to the Air Max cushioning in the heel. This technology is designed to absorb impact and provide a bouncy feel, which many runners appreciate for daily use. The shoe's breathability is also a highlight, with a mesh upper that keeps feet cool. However, it's not without its drawbacks. The design may not appeal to all, and it's not the best choice for long-distance running. Overall, the Nike Air Max Torch 4 is a solid option for casual runners seeking a reliable shoe with good cushioning and support, but it may not satisfy those looking for high performance over technical terrain or in competitive settings.

Comparable Shoes


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The Nike Pegasus Trail 3 is a more flexible and responsive alternative to the Nike Air Max Torch 4, offering a better experience for runners who prefer technical trails.

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For those looking for a shoe that can handle aggressive terrain, the Nike Wildhorse 7 is a worthy contender, providing a more aggressive grip and design compared to the Nike Air Max Torch 4.

6 Nike Air Max Torch 4 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Offers a high level of impact reduction and comfort.
Suitable for various surfaces and terrains, enhancing its versatility.
Reasonably priced, providing good value for its durability and features.

3 Cons

Design may not appeal to all runners, and it's not versatile for wear outside of physical activities.
Not ideal for long runs or high-performance demands.
Heavier and stiffer than some runners might prefer, especially on technical terrain.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Nike Air Max Torch 4 is crafted with a breathable mesh material, providing ventilation and a secure fit. This design choice helps to keep the runner's feet cool and dry, which is essential for comfort during runs. The synthetic overlays add structure and protect the mesh from potential damage, enhancing the shoe's overall durability.

Midsole

The midsole of the Nike Air Max Torch 4 features a phylon construction, offering a balance of durability and flexibility. It works in tandem with the heel's Air Max unit to provide cushioning that contours to the foot, aiding in comfort and support for runners with various arch and leg issues.

Outsole

Constructed with BRS 1000 carbon rubber, the outsole of the Nike Air Max Torch 4 is designed for durability and traction. Its waffle pattern aids in gripping surfaces and propelling the runner forward, making it versatile for different terrains, though it is best suited for shorter runs rather than intensive training.

Size/fit

The Nike Air Max Torch 4 is reported to fit true to size, offering a snug and comfortable fit. This makes the shoe a convenient choice for online shoppers, as they can confidently order their usual size with the expectation of a proper fit.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Nike Air Max Torch 4, with a padded collar and tongue that enhance the fit around the ankle. The lace-up system allows for adjustable tightness, and the visible Air-Sole heel unit provides a cushioned feel, reducing the impact on the legs during runs.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the Nike Air Max Torch 4 is primarily provided by the Air Max technology in the heel, which is designed to absorb shock and offer a responsive feel. This feature is particularly beneficial for runners looking to minimize the long-term impact on their joints and bones.

Breathability

The mesh upper of the Nike Air Max Torch 4 ensures that the shoe remains well-ventilated, pushing hot air out and allowing cool air to enter. This breathability is crucial for maintaining a comfortable temperature for the feet during runs.

Stability

While the Nike Air Max Torch 4 is not specifically designed for technical terrain, it does offer a level of stability that is suitable for casual trail running. The shoe's construction provides a secure fit, which helps to support the foot during movement.

Durability

Durability is a key aspect of the Nike Air Max Torch 4, with synthetic overlays and a toe bumper that protect against wear and tear. The quality stitching and robust materials contribute to the shoe's longevity, even when used on rough city streets.

Grip

The outsole's waffle design of the Nike Air Max Torch 4 enhances grip on a variety of surfaces, supporting the runner and aiding in performance. This feature makes the shoe adaptable to different running conditions, though it excels in non-technical environments.

Who should buy the Nike Air Max Torch 4?


The Nike Air Max Torch 4 is well-suited for casual runners who value comfort and support during their runs. It's a good match for those who frequent a mix of city streets and non-technical trails, and its durable design makes it a reliable choice for daily use. Runners who appreciate a shoe with a visible Air-Sole unit for impact reduction may find this model particularly appealing.

Who should not buy the Nike Air Max Torch 4?


Runners seeking a lightweight, flexible shoe for technical terrain or competitive racing might not find the Nike Air Max Torch 4 to be the best fit. Its design leans towards comfort and support over speed and agility. Those who prefer a more responsive ride might consider models like the Nike Pegasus Trail 3 or the Nike Wildhorse 7 for a better experience on challenging trails.

Nike Air Max Torch 4: What's it good for?


The Nike Air Max Torch 4 is well-suited for casual trail running and daily training. Its cushioning and support make it a strong candidate for runners who are out for comfort on their runs. However, it's not the best choice for technical terrain or long-distance running, where a lighter and more flexible shoe would be beneficial.

4 Nike Air Max Torch 4 FAQs


Is the Nike Air Max Torch 4 suitable for long-distance running?

The Nike Air Max Torch 4 is designed for comfort and support, making it suitable for daily training and casual runs. However, for long-distance running, runners might prefer a shoe with a lighter and more flexible design.

Can the Nike Air Max Torch 4 be used for trail running?

Yes, the Nike Air Max Torch 4 can be used for casual trail running on non-technical terrains. Its durable outsole and comfortable cushioning make it a reliable choice for such environments.

How does the Air Max cushioning in the Nike Air Max Torch 4 benefit runners?

The Air Max cushioning in the Nike Air Max Torch 4 provides impact reduction and a responsive feel, which can help minimize the long-term impact on joints and bones, making it beneficial for runners.

Is the Nike Air Max Torch 4 breathable enough for hot weather runs?

The Nike Air Max Torch 4 features a mesh upper that ensures breathability, keeping the feet cool and dry during runs, which is suitable for warmer weather conditions.

Nike Air Max Torch 4 alternatives

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Nike Air Max Torch 4
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Nike Air Max Torch 4
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released
Released
May 2020
Feb 2020Feb 2023Apr 2024Aug 2017
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Expert Review Score
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Weight
Weight
295 g
M: 275 g
W: 244 g
M: 272 g
W: 235 g
340 g
326 g
Forefoot
Forefoot
23 mm
34 mm
22 mm
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
6 mm
7 mm
10 mm
Heel
Heel
29 mm
41 mm
32 mm
Brand
Brand
Nike
adidasBrooksOnadidasNew Balance
Strike Type
Strike Type
Heel strikeHeel strikeFore/Midfoot strikeHeel strike
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
MaximalistMaximalist
Breathable
Breathable
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Rock plate
Rock plate
Rocker
Rocker
Techs
Techs
adidas Ultraboost
Waterproofings
Waterproofings
Water repellent
Water repellent
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
SustainableVegan β“‹
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Nike Air Max Torch 4: what the experts say (1 review)

Nike Air Max Torch 4 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainTrail (+533)
BrandNike (+261)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
FitNarrow toe box (+222)
MaterialsMesh (+942)
Colorways002 Anthracite Metallic Silver, Black
Specificationsvs Average
Released
May 2020
Measurements
Weight
295 g

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AuthorTom Green
Tom is the founder of geerly. Based in West London, he found his passion for running in his mid-30s. He’s best at longer distances, and is a regular at the London Marathon, where he's edging closer to sub-2.40. He started geerly because he found it frustrating when shopping for running shoes spending ages trying to find the best deal in his size, and wading through verbose, waffling reviews clearly designed to appeal to search engines rather than be helpful to users. For geerly he's passionate about writing reviews that get straight to the point, and helping runners find the right gear at the best price.
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