Nike Downshifter 11
Buy Nike Downshifter 11 at today's best price (men's/women's)
8 minute read
Overview
The Nike Downshifter 11 is a running shoe designed to offer lightweight support and flexibility. This shoe is known for its affordability and versatility, making it a popular choice among budget-conscious runners.
Key Features:
- Lightweight Design: The shoe is crafted to be light on the foot, enhancing comfort during runs.
- Breathable Mesh Upper: The engineered mesh upper provides ventilation, keeping feet cool.
- Durable Outsole: The rubber outsole is designed for traction and longevity.
The Nike Downshifter 11 is an ideal choice for entry-level runners who prioritize affordability and comfort for daily running. Its breathable mesh offers ventilation, making it suitable for everyday training.
With an average review score of 82%, it's rated just above the median rating of similar running shoes. Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the cheapest 20% of running shoes today.
Verdict
The consensus on the Nike Downshifter 11
The Nike Downshifter 11 is a solid choice for those seeking an affordable and versatile running shoe. It offers a lightweight and comfortable experience, making it suitable for daily running and gym workouts. The shoe's breathable mesh upper ensures ventilation, although some users noted that breathability could be improved in the midfoot area. The durable outsole provides good traction on various surfaces, and the shoe's flexibility allows for smooth transitions during runs. However, the cushioning is firm, which might not appeal to those seeking a plush ride. Overall, the Downshifter 11 is a reliable option for beginners or those on a budget, offering good value for money. It's a practical choice for entry-level runners looking for a dependable shoe without breaking the bank.
Updates to Nike Downshifter 11
The Nike Downshifter 11 continues the legacy of the Nike Downshifter line with minimal changes from the previous model, the Nike Downshifter 10. The most notable update is the addition of a translucent window behind the TPU Swoosh, enhancing the shoe's aesthetic appeal. The midfoot support has been slightly improved, although the overall design remains similar to its predecessor. The cushioning and outsole pattern are consistent with the Downshifter 10, maintaining the shoe's reputation for affordability and reliability.
Comparable Shoes
The Nike Pegasus 38 is a good option for runners seeking a high-performance shoe with advanced features. While the Downshifter 11 is more affordable, the Pegasus 38 offers superior cushioning and a more responsive ride. Runners who prioritize comfort and performance may prefer the Pegasus 38, while those on a budget might find the Downshifter 11 to be a practical choice.
The Brooks Launch 8 is a good alternative for runners seeking a budget-friendly shoe with a wider fit. While the Downshifter 11 offers lightweight support and flexibility, the Launch 8 provides a more cushioned ride. Runners who prefer a softer feel and a roomier fit may find the Launch 8 to be a better option, while those seeking a versatile and affordable shoe might choose the Downshifter 11.
6 Nike Downshifter 11 Pros & Cons
3 Pros
3 Cons
In Depth
Upper
The upper of the Nike Downshifter 11 is made from a breathable mesh material, providing ventilation to keep feet cool during runs. This engineered mesh is lightweight, contributing to the shoe's overall comfort. However, some users have noted that the midfoot area could benefit from improved breathability, as it tends to feel warmer after longer runs. The translucent window behind the TPU (thermoplastic polyurethane) Swoosh adds a stylish touch, while the padded tongue and ankle collar enhance comfort. The upper's design is functional, with a focus on keeping the shoe lightweight and affordable.
Midsole
The midsole of the Nike Downshifter 11 features an unbranded foam that offers adequate cushioning for daily runs. This foam provides support throughout the length of the foot, accommodating both heel and toe strikers. While the cushioning is firm, it ensures stability and shock absorption during runs. The midsole's design mirrors that of the previous Downshifter 10, maintaining a balance between support and flexibility. This makes the shoe suitable for neutral runners seeking a reliable option for everyday training.
Outsole
The outsole of the Nike Downshifter 11 is crafted from durable rubber, designed to provide traction and grip on various surfaces. The decoupled pattern, similar to the more premium Pegasus 38, ensures smooth heel-to-toe transitions. Flex grooves in the outsole enhance flexibility, allowing for a natural stride cycle. The rubber curves up over the toe, protecting the softer foam underneath and contributing to the shoe's durability. This design makes the Downshifter 11 a dependable choice for road running and light trail use.
Size/fit
The Nike Downshifter 11 offers a snug fit, with a narrower toe box compared to other Nike models. Some users may need to consider sizing up, especially if they have wider feet. The shoe's design includes a new lace eyelet system that improves midfoot lockdown, ensuring a secure fit during runs. While the fit is generally true to size, those with wider feet might find the shoe slightly tight. It's recommended to try on the shoe before purchasing to ensure the best fit.
Comfort
Comfort is a key feature of the Nike Downshifter 11, with its lightweight design and padded tongue and ankle collar. The shoe provides a comfortable experience for daily running and gym workouts. While the cushioning is firm, it offers adequate support for shorter runs. The breathable mesh upper enhances comfort by allowing airflow, although some users noted that the midfoot area could be more ventilated. Overall, the Downshifter 11 is a comfortable option for entry-level runners seeking an affordable shoe.
Cushioning
The cushioning in the Nike Downshifter 11 is firm, providing stability and support for daily runs. The unbranded foam in the midsole ensures shock absorption, making it suitable for neutral runners. While the cushioning is not as plush as some high-performance models, it offers a balanced ride for everyday training. The shoe's design focuses on providing lightweight support, making it a practical choice for those seeking a reliable and affordable option.
Breathability
Breathability is a notable feature of the Nike Downshifter 11, thanks to its engineered mesh upper. This material allows for airflow, keeping feet cool during runs. However, some users have mentioned that the midfoot area could benefit from improved ventilation, as it tends to feel warmer after longer runs. Despite this, the shoe's overall breathability is adequate for daily training, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a well-ventilated option.
Stability
The Nike Downshifter 11 offers stability through its firm cushioning and supportive midsole. The shoe is designed for neutral runners, providing a balanced ride for daily training. The midfoot support ensures a secure fit, while the durable outsole offers traction on various surfaces. While the shoe lacks advanced stability features found in high-performance models, it provides adequate support for entry-level runners seeking a reliable and affordable option.
Durability
Durability is a strong point of the Nike Downshifter 11, with its robust rubber outsole designed to withstand regular use. The outsole's decoupled pattern and flex grooves enhance flexibility while maintaining traction on various surfaces. The rubber curves up over the toe, protecting the softer foam underneath and contributing to the shoe's longevity. While the upper is lightweight, it is designed to be durable enough for daily training, making the Downshifter 11 a dependable choice for budget-conscious runners.
Grip
The grip of the Nike Downshifter 11 is enhanced by its durable rubber outsole, which provides traction on various surfaces. The decoupled pattern and flex grooves ensure smooth transitions and a natural stride cycle. The outsole's design makes it suitable for road running and light trail use, offering reliable grip during daily training. While the shoe lacks advanced grip features found in high-performance models, it provides adequate traction for entry-level runners seeking an affordable option.
Flex
Flexibility is a key feature of the Nike Downshifter 11, with its decoupled outsole pattern and flex grooves. These design elements allow for a natural stride cycle, enhancing the shoe's overall comfort. The lightweight construction and engineered mesh upper contribute to the shoe's flexibility, making it suitable for daily training. While the shoe lacks advanced flex features found in high-performance models, it offers a balanced ride for entry-level runners seeking a reliable and affordable option.
Who should buy the Nike Downshifter 11?
The Nike Downshifter 11 is ideal for entry-level runners seeking an affordable and versatile shoe for daily training. It's a great choice for those who prioritize lightweight support and flexibility in their running shoes. Runners who enjoy road running will appreciate the shoe's durable outsole and reliable grip. Additionally, those who prefer a neutral shoe with firm cushioning will find the Downshifter 11 to be a suitable option. Its breathable mesh upper makes it a practical choice for everyday training and gym workouts.
Who should not buy the Nike Downshifter 11?
Runners seeking high-performance features or advanced cushioning may not find the Nike Downshifter 11 suitable. Those who prefer a high arch support or a plush ride might want to explore other options. If you're looking for a shoe with reflective elements for night running, the Downshifter 11 may not meet your needs. Additionally, runners who require a wider fit might find the shoe's narrower toe box uncomfortable. Consider alternatives like the Pegasus 38 or the Brooks Launch 8 for a more tailored fit and advanced features.
Nike Downshifter 11: What's it good for?
The Nike Downshifter 11 is good for daily running and everyday training, offering a balance of comfort and support. Its lightweight design makes it suitable for road running and gym workouts. The shoe's durable outsole provides reliable grip on various surfaces, making it a versatile choice for different training environments. While it may not have advanced features, the Downshifter 11 is a practical option for entry-level runners seeking an affordable and dependable shoe for their running journey.
5 Nike Downshifter 11 FAQs
What is the weight of the Nike Downshifter 11?
The Nike Downshifter 11 weighs approximately 289 g (10.2 oz), making it a lightweight option for daily running.
Is the Nike Downshifter 11 suitable for road running?
Yes, the Nike Downshifter 11 is designed for road running, with a durable rubber outsole that provides reliable grip on various surfaces.
Does the Nike Downshifter 11 have good breathability?
The Nike Downshifter 11 features a breathable mesh upper, allowing for airflow and keeping feet cool during runs. However, some users noted that the midfoot area could benefit from improved ventilation.
What is the heel-to-toe drop of the Nike Downshifter 11?
The Nike Downshifter 11 has a heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm, providing a balanced ride for neutral runners.
Is the Nike Downshifter 11 true to size?
The Nike Downshifter 11 generally fits true to size, but some users with wider feet may need to consider sizing up due to the narrower toe box.
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| bestDeal | Show prices | |||||
| priceBand | Price band | |||||
| similarity | Similarity | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar | Very similar |
| released | ReleasedMay 2021 | Apr 2019 | Jan 2023 | Mar 2023 | Apr 2021 | Feb 2023 |
| expertReviewScore | Expert Review Score | |||||
| Weight | Weight289 g | M: 366 g W: 281 g | 320 g | 283 g | M: 249 g W: 210 g | |
| Forefoot | Forefoot | 23 mm | M: 16 mm W: 15 mm | |||
| Heel to toe drop | Heel to toe drop10 mm | 8 mm | 10 mm | 8 mm | ||
| Heel | Heel | 33 mm | M: 24 mm W: 23 mm | |||
| Brand | BrandNike | adidas | New Balance | Nike | adidas | ASICS |
| Shoe Type | Shoe Type | Maximalist | ComfortableLightweightMaximalist | |||
| Techs | Techs | 4Dadidas 4D | Nike ReactNike Storm Tread | ASICS AHARPLUSASICS FF Blast | ||
| Waterproofings | Waterproofings | Waterproof | ||||
Common characteristicsRoadDaily runningNeutralNeutral pronationHigh arch |
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