The Nike Run Swift 3 is up for a review this week, just in time in case you’re looking to add a new runner to your rotation. The Run Swift series debuted in 2020 and it is part of Nike’s effort to offer more budget friendly sneakers on the market, much like it is the case with the Interact Run, Downshifter, Impact or the Giannis Immortality . It turns out not everyone wants to spend $160 on a pair of React Infinity 3 running shoes and Nike did not want to loose that niche of the footwear market. The brand is able to be successful with all these due to its stylish, recognizable designs but also by using materials that even if they are basic they are performant and durable. Much like the other series the Nike Run Swift sneaker is lacking any advanced cushioning system without sacrificing comfort.
How They Fit
We got a pair in gray and white last week which was one of the first released for the Nike Run Swift 3 in 2023. This edition is part of the Move to Zero campaign from Nike , being made of at least 20% recycled content by weight. Therefore they come in the box made for this series with minimal design. Out of the box the shoes feel very lightweight and stylish. It is a simple design that Nike made little adjustments from one version to the other. Given how most of the tongue is sewn into the shoe for the most part it is built like a bootie where you slip your foot in and tight it up if needed with the laces. They fit true to size and given the upper mesh construction they are very forgiving when coming to a wider foot. If you are not sure about your size you can check out our Nike size chart here.
Upper
The upper of the Nike Run Swift 3 is made of a light padded mesh with synthetic overlays placed strategically to help with protection and stability. The mesh does a good job when it comes to breathability. It is not Flyknit mesh but it also costs a lot less than the more performant Nike runners out there. The shoes feature Flywire cables that connect the lacing system with the midsole in a way that they wrap around your feet for an excellent lockdown fit without taking away from comfort. The Flywire cables have been a signature feature for this style since the first edition when they were more exposed. Overall the Swift Run offers a nice, plush feel all around, given by the cushioning in the heel area, tongue and the EVA insert.
Sole Unit
While the shape of the Nike Run Swift 3 sole unit has changed a bit it kept the same simple setup from the previous versions. Nike used an re-engineered foam material that allows them to keep the price low all while offering excellent cushioning and decent arch support. We noticed during our Nike Run Swift 3 review how versatile these are, being very comfortable for walking, in the gym or even for short, slow paced runs.As we expected the sole doesn’t offer much energy return but at this price we can make peace with that. The outsole features a flex groove pattern that offers excellent traction for basic activities and adds some durability to the sole.
Are Nike Run Swift 3 Good For Running?
The Nike Run Swift 3 are good for running, particularly for short distances or at slow paces. The shoes feature a lightweight and stylish design, making them suitable for various athletic activities, including walking and gym workouts. While the sole may not offer significant energy return, the Nike Swift Run 3 is an excellent budget athletic sneaker, offering value for the price, style, and comfort.
Bottom Line
All in all, to conclude our Nike Run Swift 3 review, this is an excellent all around budget athletic sneaker. You can make it your everyday go to shoe for pretty much any athletic activity, being similar in this regards to the New Balance Fresh Foam ROAV. They are great for long walks, in the gym and also for running for short distances or at slow paces. At $75 per pair and often on sale they offer a great value for such a versatile shoe. While the materials are basic the style and comfort are there and they are durable enough to make up for the money spent. If still not convinced , the Nike Renew Ride 3 , Under Armour Charged Assert 10 or the Nike Winflo 10 are excellent options for runners under $100 that is worth checking out.
