Nike Legend React 2

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Nike Legend React 2: Review

β€œA responsive, everyday running shoe for neutral runners.”

Overview


The Nike Legend React 2 is a running shoe designed to provide a balance of comfort and performance for daily running. This model is part of the Nike Legend React family and stands out for its use of Nike React technology, a foam that delivers responsive cushioning, making it suitable for both short and long-distance runs. The shoe features a breathable mesh upper, ensuring good air flow to keep the feet cool and dry.

Key Features:

  • React Foam Midsole: Provides soft, responsive cushioning for comfort on the run.
  • Engineered Mesh Upper: Offers lightweight support and breathability.
  • Durable Rubber Outsole: Enhances traction and durability on various surfaces.

The Nike Legend React 2 is an ideal choice for runners who prioritize comfort and responsive cushioning for their everyday training. Its durable design makes it suitable for regular use on road terrains.

Based on our monitoring of prices across the internet, it's currently in the most expensive 40% of running shoes today.

Verdict

The consensus on the Nike Legend React 2


The Nike Legend React 2 has been well-received for its balance of affordability and performance. It offers a responsive cushioning system thanks to its React foam midsole, which is appreciated for its elasticity and softness, making it suitable for both high-speed sprints and long-distance runs. The shoe's engineered mesh upper provides excellent breathability, keeping the feet cool and comfortable during runs. Additionally, the durable rubber outsole offers reliable traction and longevity, even on wet surfaces. While it may not include the premium features of higher-end models in the React series, the Nike Legend React 2 delivers solid performance that makes it a great value for money. Overall, this shoe is recommended for daily runners looking for a reliable, comfortable, and affordable option.

Updates to Nike Legend React 2


The Nike Legend React 2 introduces several updates from its predecessor, enhancing both comfort and performance. Notably, the midsole features an increased height, providing greater cushioning and comfort. Additionally, the upper has been redesigned with a more breathable mesh and a better fit, particularly around the midfoot area. These improvements make the Nike Legend React 2 a significant step forward in the Nike Legend React series.

Comparable Shoes


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The Nike Odyssey React Flyknit 2 is a model that runners compare with the Nike Legend React 2. The Odyssey React Flyknit 2 offers similar React foam cushioning but with a slightly different upper design that focuses more on stability. It's a great alternative for runners who need extra support during their runs.

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The Nike React Epic Flyknit 2 is often compared to the Nike Legend React 2 due to their use of React foam technology. While both shoes offer excellent cushioning and responsiveness, the Epic Flyknit 2 features a higher-end, sock-like upper that provides a more snug fit. This makes it a better option for runners seeking a tighter, more seamless fit.

6 Nike Legend React 2 Pros & Cons


3 Pros

Offers responsive cushioning with React foam.
Breathable mesh upper keeps feet cool and dry.
Durable rubber outsole provides excellent traction.

3 Cons

May not provide adequate support for overpronators.
Not specifically designed for waterproofing.
Heavier than some competitive racing shoes.

In Depth


Upper

The upper of the Nike Legend React 2 is crafted from a lightweight, engineered mesh that offers excellent breathability and a comfortable fit. This design choice helps keep the foot cool and dry, which is crucial for long runs. The mesh material is also flexible, adapting to the foot's shape, and provides adequate support without restricting movement.

Midsole

The standout feature of the Nike Legend React 2 is its React foam midsole. This technology is designed to provide a soft, yet incredibly responsive cushioning. It effectively absorbs impact and then returns energy to the runner, which is particularly beneficial during the push-off phase of the running stride. This makes the shoe ideal for runners who value comfort and energy return in their footwear.

Outsole

The outsole of the Nike Legend React 2 uses two types of rubber to enhance its performance. Sticky rubber in key areas improves traction on slippery surfaces, while a more durable rubber compound in high-wear areas extends the shoe's lifespan. This thoughtful design ensures that the shoe performs well in various running conditions and terrains.

Size/fit

The Nike Legend React 2 offers a comfortable fit that accommodates a wide range of foot shapes. It features a slightly wider forefoot area, which allows for natural foot expansion during long runs. The shoe's design also includes a lower compression upper, enhancing overall comfort and making it easier to wear for extended periods.

Comfort

Comfort is a key strength of the Nike Legend React 2, thanks to its soft React foam and breathable upper. The shoe's internal sleeve and less restrictive upper design contribute to a snug, yet non-constrictive fit. These features, combined with the lightweight construction, make the Nike Legend React 2 a pleasure to wear during any run.

Who should buy the Nike Legend React 2?


The Nike Legend React 2 is best suited for runners who need a reliable and comfortable shoe for their regular training sessions. It's particularly beneficial for those who engage in daily running and require a shoe that offers both breathability and responsive cushioning. Runners with a neutral pronation will find the shoe's design supportive and effective for maintaining natural foot motion.

Who should not buy the Nike Legend React 2?


Runners who require specific support for overpronation or have significantly flat feet might not find the Nike Legend React 2 suitable. Its design is optimized for those with neutral pronation and may not provide the necessary support for other foot types. Those looking for ultra-lightweight competition shoes might also want to explore other options designed specifically for racing.

Nike Legend React 2: What's it good for?


The Nike Legend React 2 is excellent for road running and can handle everything from short sprints to long-distance runs. Its versatile design makes it suitable for a variety of workouts, including daily training and participating in 10k events. The shoe's durable construction and responsive cushioning make it a reliable choice for regular use.

4 Nike Legend React 2 FAQs


Is the Nike Legend React 2 suitable for long-distance running?

Yes, the Nike Legend React 2 is well-suited for long-distance running, thanks to its responsive React foam cushioning and breathable mesh upper. These features provide comfort and support during extended runs.

Can the Nike Legend React 2 be used for competitive racing?

While the Nike Legend React 2 is primarily designed for training and everyday running, its lightweight design and responsive cushioning also make it a viable option for competitive racing, especially for amateur runners.

How does the Nike Legend React 2 handle wet running conditions?

The Nike Legend React 2 performs adequately in wet conditions. The outsole's sticky rubber provides good traction on wet surfaces, although it's not specifically designed as a waterproof shoe.

What type of arch support does the Nike Legend React 2 provide?

The Nike Legend React 2 is designed with a neutral arch support, making it suitable for runners with a neutral pronation and those with a high arch. It provides a balanced level of support without excessive correction.

Nike Legend React 2 alternatives

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released
Released
Nov 2019
May 2020Mar 2023Aug 2021
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Weight
Weight
204 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
Lightweight
Orthotic friendly
Orthotic friendly
Removable insole
Removable insole
Techs
Techs
Nike React
Environmental Characteristics
Environmental Characteristics
Sustainable
0

Nike Legend React 2 characteristics and specifications

Characteristics
SportsRunning (+2049)
TerrainRoad (+1362)
UsagesDaily running (+1132)
BrandNike (+261)
Support TypeNeutral (+1603)
Pronation TypeNeutral pronation (+1578)
Arch TypeHigh arch (+1525)
Shoe TypeLightweight (+409)
FeaturesBreathable (+753)
MaterialsMesh (+942)
TechsNike React (+22)
Events10k (+711)Half marathon (+711)Marathon (+711)
ColorwaysBerry / Grey / Pink, Black, Black / Grey, Black / White
Specificationsvs Average
Model
2
Released
Nov 2019
Measurements
Weight
204 g

Evolution of the Nike Legend React product family

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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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Tom Green
December 18, 2024 at 9:55 AM
Gunnersbury parkrun #230 (my #3️⃣4️⃣)
πŸ“Š Stats by geerly πŸ‘Ÿ πŸ•’ Official time: 00:22:45 | Course PB 🚨 🏁 Overall position: 35/549 🚹 Gender position: 21/299 🎯 Age grade: 61%