The Nike Revolution 6 running shoes have gained popularity over the recent years as a budget-friendly option for runners. With an affordable price tag, comfortable fit, and reliable durability, it’s easy to see why beginners and casual runners alike have been drawn to the Revolution 6.
However, the question remains – how well do these basic running shoes perform for real running? Are they actually a good choice for regular running and training?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take an in-depth look at the Revolution 6’s key features and technologies to see how they stack up for running performance.
We’ll compare them to more premium Nike runners and analyze the pros, cons, wear, fit and feel during runs. By the end, you’ll know if the affordable Revolution 6 can stand up to serious running and is a shoe you can rely on for all your training needs.
Outsole & Durability
The outsole is a good indicator right off the bat of how durable a running shoe will be and how many miles you can expect to get out of it before needing to replace it. This is especially important for runners that are logging higher weekly mileages during training.
The Revolution 6 uses a durable rubber outsole in a waffle-like traction pattern that performs reasonably well on both pavement and light trails. The rubber itself is on the thinner side, which helps keep the shoe lightweight and flexible rather than thick and heavy.
Reviews from runners put the overall durability at around 300-500 miles – not bad for a budget shoe, but not quite as long-lasting as premium runners that can often hit 500-800+ miles.
While casual runners may have no issue getting 300+ miles out of the Revolution 6, regular runners logging 40-60 MPW may find themselves needing new shoes a bit more often.
The outsole rubber tends to show significant wear around the 300-mile mark, especially for runners doing a lot of road miles or putting more stress on the shoe. If putting in higher miles, you’ll need to plan to replace them a bit faster than a more expensive shoe.
Midsole Cushioning
The key to any running shoe’s comfort and ability to protect your body from impact during miles is the midsole cushioning. The Revolution 6 uses a single-density Phylon midsole cushioning, which is on the firmer side.
It offers reasonably good shock absorption during foot strike on pavement or light trails, but the firmer density does mean you feel more ground feedback than a more premium, well-cushioned shoe.
The Phylon foam midsole also tends to flatten out a bit quicker than higher end cushioning technology like Nike’s React foam or Zoom Air units. Most runners found the Revolution 6 felt great when new, but lost some bounce and energy return after 150-200 miles as midsole compressed with use.
Again, this may not make much difference for casual, occasional runners but regular runners will feel the difference during mileage.
An added consideration is runner weight – the Revolution 6 performs well for runners under 150lbs, but heavier runners often found them too thin and not supportive enough, leading to calf, knee or hip discomfort during longer miles.
Weight & Responsiveness
In terms of running performance metrics, the Revolution 6 holds up reasonably well. At 9.3oz for a men’s size 9, it falls into the lightweight category which runners find helpful for feeling fast and efficient during gait cycles.
The upper uses a lightweight knit textile material and thin synthetic overlays for support, keeping the overall shoe lightweight on your foot.
Responsiveness falls into the moderate category – the firmer Phylon foam midsole provides a stable base for foot strike and transitions, but doesn’t have an especially snappy toe-off so turnover can feel slower compared to performance-oriented shoes. During longer miles, the Revolution 6 lacks the extra bounce in each stride to give your feet that fresh feeling all the way through long runs.
Breathability
The Revolution 6’s knit textile upper scores well for ventilation and breathability during warm weather running. Compared to leather or nylon mesh uppers that can trap heat on top of your feet, the Revolution 6 materials allow free airflow in and out to keep your feet cooler as your run heats up. No major complaints from runners in terms of heat or ventilation issues with this shoe.
Fit & Feel
Here’s where personal preference comes more into play – some runners may love the basic, straightforward feel and fit while others could feel the Revolution 6 runs a bit clunky and lifeless compared to expensive trainers. Here’s an overview:
- Snug through heel & midfoot – provides stability but can dig in for some wearers. Lockdown through laces helps secure.
- Roomier toe box – allows foot splay but some found lacking structure here
- Firm yet flexible through stride – decent ground feedback that trails runners appreciate
- Lack of premium feel/tech as expected for price point
- Outsole has some grip, but trails runners will want more aggressive lug pattern
Performance Summary
The Nike Revolution 6 can certainly hold their own as a daily training running shoe for new runners or casual runners logging lower weekly miles. The affordability and durability combo make them easy to recommend as an introduction to neutral cushion running shoes.
They lack some bells & whistles of premium shoes but provide reliable comfort and support for easy to moderate pace runs.
However, for runners that are looking for a go-to shoe to take on all their key workouts, higher mileage training and longer races, the Revolution 6 has clear limitations.
The firmer ride, quicker midsole breakdown and lack of versatility point more competitive runners towards higher tier Nike models or other running brands instead. The Revolution 6 makes an excellent rotational shoe for easy days and short runs, supplementing a performance trainer or racer for key sessions.
Top Running Alternatives to the Revolution 6
Here are three running shoes from Nike and other top brands that present better all-around performance and value for regular running and training compared to the Revolution 6:
- Nike Pegasus 38/39 – Versatile neutral trainer good for a wide range of paces & distances – $15-20 more expensive
- Saucony Ride 15 – Soft yet responsive cushioning – Durable outsole – $130 MSRP
- ASICS Gel-Cumulus 24 – Gel cushioning system provides excellent shock absorption – Multiple width options
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common questions runners have regarding the use of Nike Revolution 6 for running and training:
Are the Revolution 6 good for marathon training?
While they can work for early marathon training, most runners would be better off in more protective, responsive cushioning for the long miles. Models like the Nike Infinity Run or New Balance FuelCell TC are better marathon shoe options.
How do the Revolution 6 compare to the Nike Pegasus or Vomero models?
The Revolution has firmer cushioning and a less premium feel compared to the well-regarded Pegasus neutral trainers. The Vomero is significantly more cushioned as more of max cushion shoe.
Is the sizing on the Revolution 6 true to size?
Most runners found sizing was accurate in the Revolution 6 but some pointed out the firmer, less structured midsole has less give than other models so sizing up half a size could allow some extra room if needed.
Do the Revolution 6 work for speed workouts?
While cushioned enough for easy to steady paces on workout days, most runners wouldn’t use them for any fast repeats or hard tempo running due to lack of responsiveness. Better off in a dedicated lightweight workout/racer option.
How much trail capability do the Revolution 6 provide?
While not a trail shoe, the outsole provides enough traction for mild dirt paths and gravel but aggressive lug patterns on trail models are better equipped for loose terrain.
In Closing
The bottom line – as an affordable cushion shoe for new runners or a short run option in rotation the Nike Revolution 6 hits plenty of good notes. More serious runners are better off looking at other models to fuel all their key running and workouts across high mileage training cycles.
Getting the right match of fit, cushion and versatility matters more and more as your running volume and pace expectations increase over time. Hopefully this breakdown helps set appropriate expectations to get the most out of this popular running shoe.