Nike Downshifter 10

Review Score
83%
🏅 Highly Rated
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Nike Downshifter 10: Review

“A budget-friendly, breathable running shoe for daily training.”

Overview


The Nike Downshifter 10 is a versatile running shoe designed for daily running and light workouts. This model is part of the Nike Downshifter family, known for its affordability and reliable performance. The Downshifter 10 features a lightweight, breathable mesh upper and a cushioned midsole, making it suitable for neutral runners (runners with a natural foot motion) who need a comfortable and supportive shoe for various activities.

Key Features:

  • Breathable Mesh Upper: The single-layer mesh upper ensures excellent ventilation.
  • Cushioned Midsole: Provides a soft and responsive ride for short to medium distances.
  • Durable Outsole: The rubber outsole offers reliable traction on road surfaces.

The Nike Downshifter 10 is an ideal choice for budget-conscious runners who prioritize comfort and breathability for their everyday training. Its lightweight design and cushioned midsole offer a balanced ride, making it suitable for various running and workout routines.

According to our analysis of reviews from experts around the world, it averages a review score of 83%. This puts it in the highest rated 40% of comparable running shoes. According to our analysis of prices across the internet, at current rates it's in the cheapest 10% of running shoes.

Verdict

The consensus on the Nike Downshifter 10


The Nike Downshifter 10 is a solid choice for runners seeking an affordable, lightweight, and breathable shoe for daily running. Reviewers praised its comfortable cushioning and sleek design, making it a versatile option for both running and casual wear. However, the shoe's narrow fit and lack of water resistance are drawbacks. The Downshifter 10 performs well on road surfaces, offering good traction and stability. While it may not be the best option for long-distance runners or those needing extra support, it excels as a budget-friendly, multipurpose shoe. Overall, the Nike Downshifter 10 offers great value for money, especially for beginners and casual runners.

Updates to Nike Downshifter 10


The Nike Downshifter 10 features several updates from its predecessor, the Nike Downshifter 9. The new model includes an improved midsole with better cushioning and support. The upper has been redesigned with a lighter and more breathable mesh, enhancing comfort and ventilation. Additionally, the outsole has been updated with a more durable rubber and flex grooves for better flexibility and traction. These changes make the Downshifter 10 a more comfortable and reliable option for Nike Downshifter fans.

Comparable Shoes


The Nike Revolution 5 is a good alternative for those seeking a budget-friendly running shoe. While both models offer affordability and comfort, the Downshifter 10 provides better cushioning and a more breathable upper. However, the Revolution 5 has a slightly roomier fit, making it a better option for runners with wider feet.

The Nike React Miler is a more premium option compared to the Downshifter 10. It offers superior cushioning with Nike's React foam and a more supportive design, making it suitable for long-distance running. While the Downshifter 10 is more affordable and lightweight, the React Miler provides better durability and support for serious runners.



The Nike Flex Experience Run 10 is another budget-friendly option from Nike. It is lighter than the Downshifter 10 and offers a more flexible ride. However, the Downshifter 10 provides better cushioning and a more breathable upper, making it a more comfortable choice for daily running.

7 Nike Downshifter 10 Pros & Cons


4 Pros

Affordable price point.
Breathable mesh upper for excellent ventilation.
Lightweight design.
Comfortable cushioning for short to medium-distance runs.

3 Cons

Narrow fit, especially in the toe box.
Not water-resistant.
May not provide enough support for long-distance running.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Nike Downshifter 10 is made from a single layer of breathable mesh, which ensures excellent ventilation during runs. This lightweight material helps keep the feet cool and dry, making it ideal for well-ventilated running shoes. The seamless design with synthetic overlays adds to the shoe's sleek appearance while providing necessary support. However, the mesh upper is not water-resistant, so it may not be suitable for wet conditions.

Midsole

The midsole of the Nike Downshifter 10 features a cushioned foam that provides a soft and responsive ride. This cushioning is designed to absorb impact and offer a comfortable stride, making it suitable for short to medium-distance runs. While it may not use Nike's premium materials like React or ZoomX, the midsole still delivers a balanced and cushioned experience, ideal for everyday training.

Outsole

The outsole of the Nike Downshifter 10 is made from durable rubber, offering reliable traction on road surfaces. The design includes flex grooves that enhance flexibility and promote smooth transitions during runs. The outsole's durability ensures it can withstand regular use, making it a dependable choice for road running. However, the grooves can collect mud and debris, which may require extra cleaning.

Size/fit

The Nike Downshifter 10 has a narrow fit, particularly in the toe box area. Runners with wider feet may find it uncomfortable and may need to size up or consider other options. The shoe's snug fit provides a secure feel, but it may not be suitable for those who prefer a roomier fit. It's recommended to try on the shoe or consider sizing adjustments to ensure the best fit.

Comfort

Comfort is a standout feature of the Nike Downshifter 10. The cushioned midsole and breathable mesh upper work together to provide a comfortable running experience. The shoe's lightweight design adds to the overall comfort, making it suitable for everyday running and casual wear. However, the narrow fit may affect comfort for some runners, especially those with wider feet.

Cushioning

The cushioning in the Nike Downshifter 10 is designed to offer a soft and responsive ride. The foam midsole absorbs impact and provides a comfortable stride, making it suitable for short to medium-distance runs. While it may not feature Nike's premium cushioning technologies, it still delivers a balanced and cushioned experience, ideal for daily training.

Breathability

Breathability is a key feature of the Nike Downshifter 10, thanks to its single-layer mesh upper. This design ensures excellent ventilation, keeping the feet cool and dry during runs. The breathable material makes the shoe ideal for warm weather and intense workouts, providing a comfortable and well-ventilated running experience.

Stability

The Nike Downshifter 10 offers decent stability for neutral runners. The shoe's design includes a firm heel counter and a supportive midfoot cage, which help keep the foot secure during runs. While it may not provide the same level of stability as more premium models, it still offers enough support for everyday training and light workouts.

Durability

Durability is a strong point for the Nike Downshifter 10. The rubber outsole is designed to withstand regular use, and the overall construction of the shoe is built to last. While it may not be as durable as higher-end models, it still offers good value for its price point, making it a reliable choice for budget-conscious runners.

Grip

The grip of the Nike Downshifter 10 is reliable on most road surfaces. The rubber outsole provides good traction, ensuring a secure footing during runs. The flex grooves in the outsole also contribute to the shoe's grip, making it suitable for various running conditions. However, the grooves can collect debris, which may require extra cleaning.

Flex

Flexibility is another notable feature of the Nike Downshifter 10. The flex grooves in the outsole enhance the shoe's flexibility, allowing for smooth transitions and a natural stride. This flexibility makes the shoe comfortable for everyday running and light workouts, providing a responsive and enjoyable running experience.

Who should buy the Nike Downshifter 10?


The Nike Downshifter 10 is ideal for budget-conscious runners who need a reliable and comfortable shoe for daily running. It's suitable for neutral runners who prefer a lightweight and breathable shoe for short to medium-distance runs. Those who enjoy versatile shoes that can double as casual wear will also find value in the Downshifter 10. If you prioritize comfort and affordability, this shoe is a great choice.

Who should not buy the Nike Downshifter 10?


Runners with wider feet may find the Nike Downshifter 10's narrow fit uncomfortable. Those who need extra support or plan to run long distances should consider other options, such as the Nike React Miler. If you require a water-resistant shoe for wet conditions, the Downshifter 10 may not be suitable. Additionally, runners looking for premium cushioning technologies like React or ZoomX might want to explore other models.

Nike Downshifter 10: What's it good for?


The Nike Downshifter 10 is good for daily running and light workouts. Its breathable mesh upper makes it ideal for warm weather and intense training sessions. The cushioned midsole provides a comfortable ride for short to medium-distance runs. The shoe's lightweight design and reliable traction make it suitable for road running. Overall, it's a versatile and budget-friendly option for casual runners.

5 Nike Downshifter 10 FAQs


Is the Nike Downshifter 10 suitable for long-distance running?

The Nike Downshifter 10 is best suited for short to medium-distance runs. While it offers good cushioning and comfort, it may not provide the necessary support and durability for long-distance running.

Does the Nike Downshifter 10 have a narrow fit?

Yes, the Nike Downshifter 10 has a narrow fit, particularly in the toe box area. Runners with wider feet may need to size up or consider other options.

Is the Nike Downshifter 10 breathable?

Yes, the Nike Downshifter 10 features a breathable mesh upper that ensures excellent ventilation, making it ideal for warm weather and intense workouts.

Can the Nike Downshifter 10 be used for gym workouts?

Yes, the Nike Downshifter 10 is versatile enough for light gym workouts in addition to running. Its lightweight design and comfortable cushioning make it suitable for various activities.

Is the Nike Downshifter 10 water-resistant?

No, the Nike Downshifter 10 is not water-resistant. The breathable mesh upper allows water to enter easily, so it may not be suitable for wet conditions.

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Weight
Weight
M: 264 g
W: 224 g
M: 224 g
W: 184 g
M: 283 g
W: 213 g
306 g
Heel to toe drop
Heel to toe drop
11 mm
6 mm
Brand
Brand
Nike
NikeASICSReebokOnOn
Shoe Type
Shoe Type
Lightweight
Lightweight
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
0

Nike Downshifter 10: what the experts say (1 review)

Nike Downshifter 10: 1 Expert video review

Nike Downshifter 10 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
BrandNike (+261)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
FitNarrow toe box (+222)
FeaturesBreathable (+753)
MaterialsMesh (+942)
ColorwaysBlack, Black / Iron Grey / Black, Blue, Grey, Light Blue, Marine, Navy / Lime, Pink, Purple, Red
Specificationsvs Average
Model
10
Released
Jun 2020
Measurements
Weight
M: 264 g
W: 224 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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