This week we came across a pair of Nike Renew Ride 3 and we took the opportunity to test it out and review its design. The Renew foam is one of the many cushioning solutions from Nike that is very similar to the Lunarlon. It is a cheaper alternative to the React, Cushlon or Phylon which makes it a great fit for more budget friendly shoes. It delivers comfort and a decent amount of bounciness but also gives a good stability when used properly. For this reason Nike is using it for models like the Nike KD Trey 5. The Renew Ride series is centered around the idea of creating a comfortable, all around use running shoe that will not break the bank, much like the Winflo or the Flex Experience runners.
How They Fit
The pair we got was the green and yellow version of the Nike Renew Ride 3, a 2023 release. At a first look they have a pretty appealing design with some degree of versatility when it comes to matching it with casual attire. They are somehow lightweight, with size 8 weighing about 10oz. This is not great when you compare them with the more expensive models out there but it’s not too bad either. They fit true to size for most folks, but this depends on how you like the abrupt curvature of the midsole in the front. If you want to have a little room on your strides many will do better with ½ size bigger than their regular size. It is to be noted that this model offers a bit more room in the toe box when compared to the previous version.
Upper
The upper of the Nike Renew Ride 3 suffered a few small tweaks from the previous models but in principle is the same. It features a thin mesh upper with synthetic overlays and a solid clip in the heel area for more stability. When we tested these for our Nike Renew Ride 3 review we took them for a run in hot weather and they felt quite breathable. The heel area and tongue feature just enough padding to feel plushy when you put them on.
Sole Unit
As the name suggests, they feature the Renew foam as their signature cushioning foam. Overall they have a flat feel so you won’t get a whole lot of spring in your step with these. Nike advertises them as more softer than the previous versions but when you compare them with the more expensive models they do not feel very soft or provide much energy return. It’s all about what you compare them with. If you keep in mind that these are budget running shoes and you pay about half of what a pair of Nike React Infinity 3 costs then you’ll be happy with these. The midsole is shaped like a cupsole which in combination with the upper heel clip offers great stability. The not so soft midsole and the stability they offer makes them a good companion in the gym or for training in general. The rubber outsole is one of the most durable from Nike but they do not add much traction, you need to be on a look out when it’s slippery and wet outside.
Bottom Line
The conclusion of our Nike Renew Ride 3 review is that these offer an excellent value as an all around running shoe that you can take with you in the gym or wear casually. The $80 retail price may not seem too low but if you look around a bit you have a good chance of getting them on sale. They have an appealing look, they are comfortable and they are made to last. Two other options worth checking out in this price rage are the Nike Swift Run 3 and the Under Armour Charged Assert 10. However, you are willing to spend more, however, Nike has got you covered with models like the Pegasus 40, a much more performant running shoe.
