want a running shoe that is fast (the Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% is praised for being fast, bouncy and responsive) The Nike Downshifter 9 is not as roomy as I like particularly in width. The upper feels flimsy and fits really snugly pushing my toes together. The top of the heel dug slightly into my Achilles tendon. The Nike Downshifter 9 felt like there was a tendency to slip if the roads were wet due to fresh rain. It didn’t feel slippery like ice, but perhaps a little slip particularly running around a sharp bend. The Nike Downshifter 9 fits between half a size to a full size small. My 10.5 size felt slightly short with my big toe touching the end.

I found myself trying to minimize the impact as much as possible because the cushioning is minimal. After 2 or 3 runs I was used to how I needed to modify my gait, primarily being sure to mid-foot strike. Energy return is adequate but cushioning feels a lot more minimal. If you are a lighter runner who strikes lightly then these entry-level shoes may be for you.