Nike ACG Zegama trail runners

ACG Zegama trail shoes

Nike has been making trail running shoes since the 1980s, but it wasn’t until 2022 that its off-road ambitions reached the pinnacle of the sport with the Zegama – a silhouette crafted for challenging ultra-distance runs such as the arduous alpine marathon it is named after.

The original ZoomX Zegama Trail debuted ZoomX foam in a trail shoe. Plush, lightweight and highly responsive, its 37mm heel stack gives outstanding shock-absorption and energy return, while its 4mm drop offers control, its wide forefoot stability and its deep, multidirectional chevron lugs durability and traction. Its upper is made of tough engineered mesh that pairs breathable perforated zones with a sturdy heel and abrasion-resistant overlays. Lastly, the roomy toe delivers comfort and the ankle gaiter keeps debris out as its pull tab improves convenience.

In 2024, Nike released the Zegama 2 with an updated geometry and raised sidewalls on its dual-density ZoomX midsole. This creates stable propulsion over rugged landscapes, while the new Vibram Megagrip outsole features Traction Lug technology with tough V-shaped lugs for unrivalled traction without clogging. An easy-draining vamp liner improves the engineered mesh upper’s performance in wet conditions, with lockdown increased via the upgraded lacing, gusseted tongue, firm heel and snug ankle gaiter.

Stylish branding highlights the Zegama’s cutting-edge technologies and forward-thinking design, which supports trail running enthusiasts like German ultramarathon star Daniela Oemus and American sub-ultra specialist Bailey Kowalczyk. In 2024, Kowalczyk showcased its remarkable abilities over rocky crags and steep inclines in a memorable launch film with the tagline, “Tame the Terrain”. Meanwhile, the series has been honoured by luxury Japanese fashion label sacai on the collaborative Zegamadome – a stunning hybrid of the Zegama 2 and 1989’s Lava Dome hiking boot.

As part of Nike’s revival of its iconic All Conditions Gear sub-label, the ACG Zegama was released in summer 2026. Full of rugged upgrades, it incorporates more ZoomX foam alongside a Cushlon 3.0 carrier for top-tier impact protection and stability on challenging terrain. Comfort is improved via the roomier toe, plusher tongue padding and stretchier ankle cuff, and a midfoot fit band ensures even greater lockdown. The Vibram Megagrip outsole returns with an enhanced lug pattern, while the protective forefoot rock plate shields against sharp objects and the modified heel bump helps refine foot placement.

Various athletes in Nike’s All Conditions Racing Department have endorsed the ACG Zegama, including three-time USA Mountain Runner of the Year Addie Bracy, who lauded its “forgiving but not too soft” cushioning and its “reliability”, concluding that it is “a good combo of stiff and cushy”. Meanwhile, Tyler Green praised its “stellar” traction, excellent out-of-the-box feel and good looks, and Caleb Olson its sturdiness during “technical races” and its all-day comfort.

With its premium materials, elite-level technologies and sturdy build, the Nike Zegama is a high-performing trail shoe designed for traversing the longest and toughest routes.