By Caleb MorganUpdated November 2026
Shopping for nike waterproof trail running shoes usually comes down to one question: how much rain, mud and cold will you run through, and how much do you value breathability in return? This list compares seven Nike models that use waterproof membranes or Gore-Tex linings, with a focus on fit, traction, weight and the type of runner each one suits. We weighted manufacturer specifications, the reputation of each model line and patterns in owner feedback, and we looked at whether a shoe is built for true trail use or mostly for road running in wet weather.
Our top picks at a glance
- 1
TOP CHOICEBest overallNike Women's Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX ShoesView on Amazon - 2
TOP CHOICEBest for wide and all-day comfortNike Juniper 2 Gore-Tex Men's Waterproof Trail Running ShoesView on Amazon - 3
TOP CHOICEBest for budget-minded trail runnersNike Men's Juniper Trail 3 Trail Running ShoesView on Amazon - 4
Best for women on mixed terrainNike Women's Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature Trail Running ShoesView on Amazon - 5
Best for road-to-trail transitionsNike Women's Air Winflo 12 Gore-TEX Waterproof Road Running ShoesView on Amazon - 6
Best for men who want a Gore-Tex upperNike Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Men's Waterproof Running ShoesView on Amazon - 7
Best for cold, wet winter runsNike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-TEX Men's Waterproof Trail Running ShoesView on Amazon
Our Top Picks
Quick Comparison
| Product | Best for | Key feature |
|---|---|---|
| Nike Women’s Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Shoes | Overall waterproof trail use | Gore-Tex membrane with trail-focused outsole |
| Nike Juniper 2 Gore-Tex Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes | Wide feet and all-day comfort | Waterproof upper with cushioned midsole |
| Nike Men’s Juniper Trail 3 Trail Running Shoes | Budget-minded trail runners | Lightweight, grippy lugs for dry-to-damp trails |
| Nike Women’s Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature Trail Running Shoes | Women on mixed terrain | Recycled-material construction and secure heel fit |
| Nike Women’s Air Winflo 12 Gore-TEX Waterproof Road Running Shoes | Road-to-trail transitions | Gore-Tex protection on a road-oriented platform |
| Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Men’s Waterproof Running Shoes | Men who want a Gore-Tex upper | Waterproof membrane and responsive foam |
| Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-TEX Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes | Cold, wet winter runs | Gore-Tex lining and a traction-oriented outsole |
Nike Women’s Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Shoes
Nike Women's Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Shoes
Best for: Overall waterproof trail use
This is a good fit for women who run trails in regular wet weather and want one shoe that handles rain, puddles and damp roots without feeling like a rain boot. It suits runners who plan to log moderate mileage on mixed surfaces.
Key specs
- Gore-Tex waterproof membrane
- Trail-oriented lugged outsole
- Women’s-specific last and fit
Pros
- Keeps feet dry through shallow water and rain
- Lugs grip well on wet rock and packed mud
- Familiar Pegasus ride for runners moving from road shoes
Cons
- Gore-Tex limits breathability on hot days
- Can feel warm for runs above 70°F
Bottom line: Pick this if you want the most dependable all-weather waterproof trail shoe in the Nike lineup and you run mostly in cool or wet conditions.
Nike Juniper 2 Gore-Tex Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
Nike Juniper 2 Gore-Tex Men's Waterproof Trail Running Shoes, Shoe, Denim Turq Midnight Navy Glacier Blue, 10.5
Best for: Wide feet and all-day comfort
Runners with wider forefeet or those who log long, slower miles on uneven ground will appreciate the stable platform. This model is aimed at men who put a premium on cushioning and waterproofing over minimal weight.
Key specs
- Gore-Tex waterproof upper
- Cushioned midsole for long runs
- Trail lug pattern for mixed terrain
Pros
- Stable, cushioned feel over rocky ground
- Keeps moisture out during long wet outings
- Generous toe area for swelling on long runs
Cons
- Heavier than lightweight trail options
- Warmth can be an issue in summer
Bottom line: A strong choice for men who want comfort and waterproofing for long, steady efforts rather than fast racing.
Nike Men’s Juniper Trail 3 Trail Running Shoes
Nike Men's Juniper Trail 3 Trail Running Shoes
Best for: Budget-minded trail runners
This option suits runners who are starting out on trails or who mainly run dry to damp paths and want a lighter, less expensive entry point into Nike trail footwear. Note that this model is not a waterproof shoe, so check your conditions before choosing it.
Key specs
- Lightweight trail construction
- Lugged outsole for loose surfaces
- Non-waterproof upper
Pros
- Lighter feel than waterproof models
- Good traction on dirt and gravel
- Breathable upper for warmer runs
Cons
- Not waterproof, so wet feet are likely in puddles
- Less protective underfoot on rocky descents
Bottom line: Choose this if you need a trail shoe for mostly dry conditions and want to keep your spending modest; skip it for regular wet-trail running.
Nike Women’s Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature Trail Running Shoes
Nike Women's Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature Trail Running Shoes
Best for: Women on mixed terrain
Women who run a mix of gravel roads, packed singletrack and occasional muddy sections will find this model versatile. It is designed around a secure heel fit and a more sustainable build.
Key specs
- Next Nature construction with recycled content
- Trail lugs for mixed surfaces
- Women’s-specific fit
Pros
- Secure heel hold on descents
- Versatile across gravel and dirt
- Sustainability-focused materials
Cons
- Not a true waterproof model
- Traction is less aggressive than dedicated mud shoes
Bottom line: A solid pick for women who want a trail shoe for mixed, mostly dry terrain and value a more sustainable build.
Nike Women’s Air Winflo 12 Gore-TEX Waterproof Road Running Shoes
Nike Women's Air Winflo 12 Gore-TEX Waterproof Road Running Shoes
Best for: Road-to-trail transitions
This is a road-oriented shoe with a Gore-Tex upper, so it suits runners who mostly train on pavement but need protection on wet days or on crushed-gravel paths. It is not a dedicated trail shoe, so it fits people whose trail running is occasional.
Key specs
- Gore-Tex waterproof upper
- Road-oriented outsole
- Responsive cushioning for daily training
Pros
- Keeps feet dry in rain on paved routes
- Smooth, familiar road feel
- Works well on firm gravel paths
Cons
- Outsole is less grippy on mud and loose rock
- Not built for technical trail running
Bottom line: Best for runners who want one waterproof shoe for wet roads and light trail use, not for serious off-road training.
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Men’s Waterproof Running Shoes
Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Men's Waterproof Running Shoes (Anthracite/Light Army/Red Sepia/Reflect Silver)
Best for: Men who want a Gore-Tex upper
Men who want the same waterproof Pegasus Trail platform as the women’s version, in a colorway that suits trail running, will find this a logical choice. It is aimed at regular runners who face wet weather often.
Key specs
- Gore-Tex waterproof membrane
- Trail outsole with multidirectional lugs
- Men’s-specific last
Pros
- Reliable waterproofing for wet trails
- Balanced ride for daily training
- Good traction on damp terrain
Cons
- Warm in hot weather
- Less breathable than mesh trail shoes
Bottom line: A dependable waterproof trail option for men who run in cool or rainy conditions most of the year.
Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-TEX Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-TEX Men's Waterproof Trail Running Shoes (DJ7926-007, Phantom/Summit White/Light Orewood Brown) Size 9.5
Best for: Cold, wet winter runs
This earlier-generation Pegasus Trail is suited to men who run through cold, wet winters and want a Gore-Tex shoe they can find in a specific size and colorway. Listing details should be checked before purchase, since this is a prior model.
Key specs
- Gore-Tex waterproof lining
- Trail outsole for wet ground
- Available in size 9.5 in this listing
Pros
- Good waterproofing for cold, slushy conditions
- Stable platform for uneven ground
- Established model with a known fit
Cons
- Prior generation, so newer features are missing
- Size and colorway availability may be limited
Bottom line: A sensible choice for winter trail runners who find this specific size and colorway and want a proven waterproof shoe.
Buying Guide
Waterproof membrane versus water-resistant uppers
Gore-Tex is the most recognized waterproof membrane in running footwear, and it keeps water out while allowing some vapor to escape. Water-resistant uppers repel light rain but soak through in puddles. For regular wet trails, a membrane is the safer choice.
Good picks for this: Nike Women’s Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Shoes, Nike Juniper 2 Gore-Tex Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
Outsole lug depth and pattern
Deeper, widely spaced lugs grip mud and loose gravel, while shallower lugs suit packed dirt and pavement. Match the pattern to the terrain you run most.
Good picks for this: Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-TEX Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes, Nike Women’s Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature Trail Running Shoes
Fit, width and toe room
Waterproof linings add little stretch, so a shoe that feels snug in the store can feel tight on long runs. Check toe room with your running socks, and consider a wider last if you have broad forefeet.
Good picks for this: Nike Juniper 2 Gore-Tex Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes, Nike Women’s Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Shoes
Weight and cushioning
Heavier shoes with more foam feel stable on long descents but add effort on climbs. Lighter shoes feel more responsive but offer less protection on rocky ground. Decide based on the length and terrain of your typical run.
Good picks for this: Nike Juniper 2 Gore-Tex Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes, Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Men’s Waterproof Running Shoes
Breathability and warmth
Gore-Tex keeps water out but also traps heat. In warm weather or on steep climbs, that can lead to hot, damp feet. Save waterproof models for cooler or wetter conditions and keep a breathable mesh pair for summer.
Good picks for this: Nike Men’s Juniper Trail 3 Trail Running Shoes, Nike Women’s Air Winflo 12 Gore-TEX Waterproof Road Running Shoes
Durability and outsole wear
Trail shoes wear faster on abrasive rock and gravel than road shoes do on pavement. Owners often report that lugs wear first on the outside edge of the forefoot, so check tread condition regularly if you run technical terrain.
Good picks for this: Nike Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Men’s Waterproof Running Shoes, Nike Pegasus Trail 4 Gore-TEX Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
Care and drying
Remove insoles and loosen laces after wet runs, and dry shoes at room temperature rather than near a heater, which can warp foam and glue. Rinse off mud so grit does not work into the membrane seams.
Good picks for this: Nike Women’s Juniper Trail 2 Next Nature Trail Running Shoes, Nike Juniper 2 Gore-Tex Men’s Waterproof Trail Running Shoes
FAQ
Are all Nike trail running shoes waterproof?
No. Only models with a Gore-Tex or similar waterproof membrane keep water out. Models without that construction are better for dry or damp trails, not puddles or heavy rain.
Do waterproof trail shoes keep feet dry in deep water?
Gore-Tex shoes handle rain, shallow puddles and wet grass well. Deep water will eventually enter over the collar, so they are not designed for fording streams.
Will waterproof shoes make my feet hot?
They can, because the membrane limits airflow. Many runners wear waterproof shoes in cool or wet weather and switch to breathable mesh models in summer.
How should I size a waterproof trail shoe?
Try shoes on in the afternoon with your running socks, and leave about a thumb’s width of room in the toe. Some waterproof linings reduce stretch, so do not rely on a snug fit to loosen with wear.
How often should I replace trail running shoes?
Many running coaches suggest replacing shoes after roughly 300 to 500 miles, though trail shoes can wear differently depending on terrain. Check the midsole for compression and the lugs for wear.
Can I use waterproof trail shoes for road running?
Yes, but the stiffer, grippier outsoles may feel less smooth on pavement. Road-oriented models such as the Air Winflo line are a better match for mostly paved routes.
Conclusion
For most runners who face regular wet trails, the Nike Women’s Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX Shoes and the men’s Pegasus Trail 5 Gore-TEX are the most direct matches for waterproof trail use. Runners who need extra room should look at the Juniper 2 Gore-Tex. If your runs are mostly dry, a non-waterproof model like the Juniper Trail 3 keeps things lighter and more breathable. Match the shoe to your terrain and weather rather than choosing on looks alone.
Sources
- Consumer safety guidance on footwear fit and product care (cpsc.gov)
- Research summaries on running injury risk and footwear (nih.gov)
- Position guidance on exercise footwear and training load (acsm.org)
Related reading
- Salomon Trail Running Shoes Waterproof Review: Alphaglide Gore-Tex (2026)
- Nike Zegama 2 Trail Running Shoes Review: Is It Worth It?
- Nike Ultrafly Trail Running Shoes Review: Is It Worth It?
- Nike Trail Running Shoes GORE-TEX Review: Pegasus Trail 5 Pros and Cons
- Nike ACG Ultrafly Trail Running Shoes Review: Is It Worth It?
- 6 Best Women's Trail Running Shoes Nikes for Every Terrain (2026)
About Caleb Morgan
Caleb Morgan is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our running gear & races guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
