The Nike Renew Run 2 is a highly anticipated update to the original Renew Run, and it’s clear that Nike has made significant improvements in various areas. As a running shoe designed with sustainability in mind, the Renew Run 2 offers an impressive combination of comfort, performance, and eco-friendliness, making it an attractive option for runners who prioritize both their feet and the environment.

Upper Material

One of the standout features of the Nike Renew Run 2 is its upper material. The shoe’s Flyknit design provides a lightweight and breathable mesh that allows for excellent airflow and flexibility. But what really sets this shoe apart is its use of recycled materials. The upper is made from at least 50% recycled synthetic materials, reducing waste and minimizing the shoe’s environmental footprint.

Midsole and Cushioning

The Renew Run 2 features a Zoom Air unit in the heel for added cushioning and responsiveness. This technology provides excellent impact protection and helps to reduce the risk of injury. The midfoot features a segmented crash pad that allows for smooth heel-to-toe transition, making it ideal for runners who need a shoe with good ride quality.

Outsole

The outsole of the Renew Run 2 is made from a durable and grippy rubber compound that provides excellent traction on various surfaces. The lugs are designed to provide optimal grip on both wet and dry terrain, making this shoe suitable for running on trails or roads.

Sustainability Features

Nike has taken several steps to make the Renew Run 2 a more sustainable option. In addition to using recycled materials in the upper, Nike has also implemented a number of other eco-friendly features, including:

• A carbon-neutral production process
• The use of renewable energy sources in their manufacturing facilities
• A goal to use 100% renewable energy globally by 2025

Fit and Comfort

The Renew Run 2 provides a comfortable fit with a roomy toe box and a snug heel. The Flyknit upper hugs the foot without feeling too tight, making it ideal for runners who need a shoe that will keep their feet happy during long runs.

Weight and Support

Weighing in at just 9.6 ounces (272 grams) for men’s sizes and 8.2 ounces (233 grams) for women’s sizes, the Renew Run 2 is an incredibly lightweight shoe that provides excellent support for runners who need a little extra stability.

Comparison to Competitors

The Nike Renew Run 2 competes directly with other eco-friendly running shoes on the market, such as the Brooks Ghost and the New Balance Fresh Foam. While these shoes are also designed with sustainability in mind, they don’t quite match the performance and comfort of the Renew Run 2.

Technical Specifications:

• Weight: Men’s size 8 (272 grams), Women’s size 7 (233 grams)
• Heel-To-Toe Offset: 10mm
• Midsole Material: Zoom Air unit in the heel, Phylon midfoot
• Outsole Material: Rubber compound with segmented crash pad
• Upper Material: Flyknit design made from at least 50% recycled synthetic materials
• Sustainability Features: Carbon-neutral production process, use of renewable energy sources, goal to use 100% renewable energy globally by 2025

Conclusion

The Nike Renew Run 2 is a highly recommended running shoe for those who prioritize both comfort and sustainability. Its Flyknit upper provides excellent breathability and flexibility, while its Zoom Air unit in the heel offers added cushioning and responsiveness. With its eco-friendly features and impressive performance, this shoe is an attractive option for runners of all levels.

Rating: 4.5/5

The only reason we wouldn’t give this shoe a perfect score is that it may not be suitable for ultra-marathoners or heavy trail runners who need more support and protection. However, for most runners, the Renew Run 2 provides an excellent balance of comfort, performance, and sustainability.