Nike Juniper

Juniper

In the early 2020s, Nike built on the success of its modern trail running collection by adding several new models. One of these is the Juniper – an affordable off-road shoe designed for beginners and those encountering light trails on their daily runs.

The Nike Juniper came out in 2022, offering a solid set of trail-ready features. Lightweight, flexible and durable, its upper of breathable mesh and protective synthetic paneling has a faux leather strap wrapping around the heel to enhance the lockdown provided by the gusseted tongue, medial midfoot overlay and dynamic eyestay. Traditional eyelets have been paired with Flywire cables for extra security. Its sole unit combines a cushy, low-profile EVA foam midsole and solid rubber outsole with shallow lugs of varying shapes for comfort and grip on roads and less technical terrain. Visually, the Juniper’s contoured midsole, energetically wavy design lines and asymmetrical Swooshes give it a stylish, sporty look with a compelling retro edge.

The Juniper 2 was launched in 2023 with a more contemporary esthetic created by its updated Swoosh and Trail logos and minimal design. Its upper combines mesh with synthetic nylon and leather for durability, breathability and soft comfort, while lockdown is enhanced by the new lacing system, which incorporates sturdy bands integrated into the sidewalls at the top and reinforced eyelets at the bottom. Generous collar and tongue padding bring comfort, pull tabs make for easy on and off, and reflective elements increase its visibility. The larger midsole elevates the wearer and offers a plush, shock-absorbing underfoot experience, while the TPU guard rail maintains stability and the generative traction pattern incorporates recycled Grind Rubber for sustainability, grip and flexibility. In 2024, Nike created a waterproof Gore-Tex version of the Juniper 2 featuring a heathered foam collar to support and protect the ankle.

The Juniper 3 also arrived in 2024, upgrading the series with a durable yet comfortable engineered mesh upper that provides strong containment through TPU paneling, cable-integrated laces and a flexible midfoot wrap connected to the midsole for stability. A large rubber toe bumper protects the forefoot from rocks and roots, and soft padding on the collar and tongue ensures all-round comfort. The lower ComfiRide EVA midsole is bouncy, well-cushioned and lightweight, while the Trail All-Terrain Compound rubber outsole is highly durable, with tapered lugs arranged into blocky shapes and uniform rows alongside flex grooves for better wet-weather traction and flexible movement. Dapper and stylish, the Juniper 3 features minimal Swoosh and Trail logos across its seamless upper and eye-catching speckles on its partially recycled midsole.

Designed to be a comfortable, supportive and accessible entry-level trail running shoe, the Nike Juniper is versatile enough for everything from door-to-trail runs to gentle hikes and even casual use, making it a great all-round silhouette.