Who should buy
In our view, the Nike Winflo 10 is an excellent choice for:
- Beginners starting their running journey who may need a shoe that doubles for walking or gym workouts.
- Anyone searching for an affordable option that offers plush cushioning and a durable outsole.
- Neutral runners looking for a comfortable daily trainer at an affordable price.
Who should NOT buy
For those accustomed to midsoles with impressive energy return, we think this shoe might not meet your expectations.
While it's plush, we found it doesn't provide enough energy return and struggles with faster paces. Within Nike's range, we suggest considering the Pegasus 40 with React foam. On a tighter budget? We think that the Saucony Axon 2 is an excellent alternative.
We also don't recommend the Winflo 10 for runners with stability issues, as it's a pure neutral daily trainer. If you're seeking an affordable and stable shoe, we suggest checking out the ASICS GT 1000 12.
Breathability
When we unboxed the Winflo 10 in the lab, we initially thought this shoe might earn a mere 2 or 3 out of 5. This assumption came from its rather thick and dense engineered mesh.
But after putting it through our eye-catching smoke-pumping test in the lab, we were pleasantly surprised to award it a nice 4/5.
What led Nike to this impressive outcome? We discovered that it's largely due to the breathability holes scattered throughout the shoe, excluding the heel area.
When illuminated, these holes become abundantly clear. They stand out as the primary reason this shoe shifted from an average score to a great one.
Curious to inspect these breathability holes up close, we turned to our microscope.
In this magnified view, there's no missing the details. While the mesh disappears at each hole, a structural layer remains intact, likely enhancing the shoe's durability.
Upon examining the interior, we noticed a thin, breathable internal fabric. However, it's so lightweight that it doesn't hinder airflow at all.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 4 |
Average | 3.8 |
Compared to 227 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5
Durability
Toebox durability
As we anticipated, the robust mesh of the Winflo 10 showcased its impressive durability in this test.
While many shoes get a mere 1/5 after facing our dremel, the Winflo 10 stood out, securing a fantastic 3/5!
Test results
Winflo 10 | 3 |
Average | 2.4 |
Compared to 161 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5
Heel padding durability
The heel is soft and cushioned. We often find that such a design can result in less resistance to wear and tear. Yet, with a score of 2/5 in our lab tests, we're not too worried about its durability over time.
Still, those who are prone to wear holes in this area or have issues with heel slippage might want to pay attention to this result.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 2 |
Average | 3.1 |
Compared to 157 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5
Outsole hardness
The outsole of the Winflo 9 ranks among the hardest we've measured in the lab, registering a significant 92.8 HC on our durometer.
The famous Bowerman's waffle
With this new version, we discovered that Nike chose a slightly softer compound. It's still on the harder side at 87.4 HC, but it's notably less rigid than its predecessor.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 87.4 HC |
Average | 80.5 HC |
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 278 running shoes
Number of shoes
54.9 HC
Outsole hardness
92.8 HC
Outsole durability
The hardness of the outsole plays a crucial role in its durability, but other factors, such as the quality of the rubber, also come into play. For example, Continental outsoles might record lower scores compared to their competitors, but they typically last longer and offer superior grip.
Regarding the Winflo 10, we found that after our dremel test in the lab, there was a 0.9-mm indentation. This indicates to us that the quality of the rubber aligns with its budget-friendly price.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 0.9 mm |
Average | 0.9 mm |
Compared to 139 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm
Outsole thickness
In a smart move, Nike added 4.3 mm of rubber beneath the foam.
Even though we know it's not the most durable outsole available, this choice ensures that it will last throughout the shoe's entire lifespan.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 4.3 mm |
Average | 3.2 mm |
Compared to 297 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm
Weight
For a cushioned daily trainer, we were pleasantly surprised to find the Winflo 10 impressively light, weighing in at just 9.5 oz (269g). That's two ounces lighter than its previous version.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 9.49 oz (269g) |
Average | 9.38 oz (266g) |
Compared to 298 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)
Cushioning
Heel stack
When we examined the midsole in the lab, we measured a stack height of 33.5 mm. By today's standards, this might be seen as average, but just a few years ago, it would have been considered maximum cushioning.
One thing is certain—we believe that even the heaviest runners will find comfort running in the Winflo 10.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 33.5 mm |
Average | 33.6 mm |
Compared to 297 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
42.7 mm
Forefoot stack
In the lab, we measured the forefoot and found it to be somewhat average at 23.8 mm.
We think this shoe is designed more for heel strikers, and this number reflects that.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 23.8 mm |
Average | 25.0 mm |
Compared to 297 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
35.8 mm
Drop
We measured a 9.7-mm heel-to-toe drop in the lab. This measurement further confirms that the shoe primarily caters to heel strikers.
However, midfoot or forefoot strikers—especially those experiencing issues in their Achilles or calves—might also find it beneficial. The higher drop can assist in relieving stress from these areas.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 9.7 mm |
Average | 8.6 mm |
Compared to 297 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm
Insole thickness
We measured the insole at 3.9 mm, which is pretty standard. It seems Nike didn't take any risks here.
Stick to what works and... just do it!
Test results
Winflo 10 | 3.9 mm |
Average | 4.5 mm |
Compared to 293 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm
Midsole softness
Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.
Foams are becoming increasingly soft—even in budget-friendly running shoes. This trend, which wasn't typical a few years back, is evident now. The Winflo 10's Cushlon foam measures at only 16.1 HA on our durometer!
This results in a soft experience, further enhanced by the full-length Nike Air cushioning in the midsole. The addition of this Air technology is really needed—while Cushlon might not be the springiest foam around, the Air system adds some bounce back.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 16.1 HA |
Average | 21.5 HA |
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 225 running shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA
Difference in midsole softness in cold
To test how Cushlon reacts in chilly conditions, we put the shoe in the freezer for 20 minutes before taking our readings.
We noticed it became a bit more firm, registering at 25.6 HA.
This is a 59% hike, falling short when compared to the average. Sadly, this underwhelming performance in cold temperatures is typical for EVA-based midsoles like Cushlon.
If you're looking for a Nike trainer that can stand the cold, you'll need to shell out more money for an Invincible 3.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 59% |
Average | 25.6% |
Compared to 224 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in midsole softness in cold
100%
Stability
Lateral stability test
The Nike Winflo 10 is a neutral trainer, and it's not designed for those needing extra stability.
While it can manage mild pronators, we strongly recommend looking for a shoe offering more underfoot support in that case.
Torsional rigidity
In our torsional rigidity test, we gave it a score of 3/5. This result is quite typical for daily trainers.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 3 |
Average | 3.2 |
Compared to 276 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5
Heel counter stiffness
As a neutral shoe, Nike decided not to include a rigid heel counter to boost stability at the expense of comfort.
We noticed this when we discovered the heel area to be really flexible, giving it a 2/5 rating.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 2 |
Average | 2.8 |
Compared to 260 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5
Midsole width in the forefoot
The trend of "average results" continues. We measured the Winflo 10 and found it has a typical midsole width of 112.5 mm.
This design seems to target neutral runners, emphasizing a lightweight and agile shoe.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 112.5 mm |
Average | 113.7 mm |
Compared to 298 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width in the forefoot
126.5 mm
Midsole width in the heel
Nevertheless, we were surprised to find the heel wider than anticipated at 92.5 mm.
As we mentioned earlier, this shoe is designed with beginners in mind, catering specifically to heel strikers.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 92.5 mm |
Average | 90.5 mm |
Compared to 298 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width in the heel
106.6 mm
Flexibility
Stiffness
Many runners regard the Winflo series as a versatile, all-around running shoe that can effortlessly transition into a comfortable walking or effective cross-training shoe.
For such adaptability, it requires flexibility. With a result of 21.7N in our 90-degree test, Nike delivered.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 21.7N |
Average | 29.1N |
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 280 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N
Difference in stiffness in cold
In cold conditions, the shoe isn't as flexible as we hoped. We discovered that after leaving it in the freezer for 20 minutes and then retesting in the lab, it measured 30.5N in the same 90-degree test.
That's a 40.6% increase, which aligns with our expectations for the Cushlon foam. As we mentioned earlier, EVA midsoles tend to underperform to cold temperatures.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 40.6% |
Average | 36.2% |
Compared to 280 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Difference in stiffness in cold
148%
Size and fit
Internal length
Upon trying on the Winflo 10, we felt it was either true to size or maaaybe slightly short. Naturally, this made us eager to measure it accurately.
Our measurement shows 267.5 mm, which is a mere 2.5 mm less than the 270 mm Nike provides in their official size charts.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 267.5 mm |
Toebox width at the widest part
While Nike is renowned for crafting narrow toeboxes, this time they've pleasantly surprised us.
We measured the Winflo 10 at a generously spacious 101.9 mm, which is impressively wide, especially for a Nike daily trainer.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 101.9 mm |
Average | 98.4 mm |
Compared to 298 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width at the widest part
109.1 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
We measured the big toe area and found that it's quite typical, coming in at 77.7 mm. It's perhaps slightly larger than some shoes, but most won't notice.
Test results
Winflo 10 | 77.7 mm |
Average | 78.2 mm |
Compared to 172 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width at the big toe
92.5 mm
Tongue: gusset type
Many brands often reserve the feature of a gusseted tongue for their pricier models, using it as a standout attribute.
However, in the 10th edition of the Winflo, Nike generously incorporated a snug, bootie-like gusseted tongue. This fantastic addition ensures a secure fit.
Test results
Winflo 10 | Bootie |
Comfort
Tongue padding
The tongue of a daily trainer is crucial, and the Winflo 10 doesn't disappoint. We measured its thickness at 9.3 mm, making it exceptionally padded.
Some might even feel that's too much!
Test results
Winflo 10 | 9.3 mm |
Average | 5.6 mm |
Compared to 295 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm
Heel tab
The Winflo 10 doesn't have a heel tab, but we didn't miss it when putting on these shoes. Instead, it features Nike's Move to Zero logo.
Nike claims that 20% of this model is crafted using recycled materials. That's great, but we want more!
Test results
Winflo 10 | None |
Removable insole
The shoe's insole can be taken out as it's not glued at all, allowing us to comfortably insert orthotics and third-party insoles.
Test results
Winflo 10 | Yes |
Misc
Reflective elements
Finding reflective elements on a Nike model is unusual, especially on a budget-friendly pair. At a $100 price point, we neither expected them.
Test results
Winflo 10 | No |