Our verdict

The Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots delivers real waterproof protection to the iconic daily trainer but comes with a few compromises. We found this Gore-Tex version noticeably heavier at 11.1 oz, $20 pricier, and underperforming on dry roads. However, its exceptional behavior on wet surfaces impressed us—offering excellent grip and enhanced comfort through a well-padded, weather-resistant upper. The ReactX foam and dual Air Zoom purple retain the cushioned, responsive feel of the original Peg, making this a solid winter-specific option.

Air Force 1 Worn Blue Pros

  • Waterproof Gore-Tex membrane
  • nike air force 1 low bling sea glass white
  • Nike Air Max Trainer 4 Trainingsschuhe
  • Durable yet comfy upper
  • Rugged toe bumper
  • check out the nike sb dunk low crater
  • Nike Air Max 90 Premium Tape QS Infrared
  • Nike air ghost racer at5410-102
  • si nike faisait la même chose sa serait pareil

Air Force 1 Worn Blue Cons

  • Tapered toebox
  • Heavy
  • Outsole durability concerns
  • Maybe a bit pricey

Audience verdict

86
Good!

Who should buy

The size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack isn’t designed for everyone, but it could be an excellent choice for:

  • Кроссовки Nike Air Tn Vapormax.
  • Those in freezing-cold climates who need reliable grip on wet surfaces and waterproof protection.
  • Nike Houston Away T-Shirt.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots

Who should NOT buy

We plus that the size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack is not the best option for those seeking a versatile, all-year-round trainer. In our view, its lack of breathability and poor performance on dry surfaces make it unsuitable for regular use outside wet or snowy conditions. If waterproofing isn’t a necessity, we recommend the standard Pegasus 41 footwear nike jr legend 8 club ic at5882 104 white black hyper royal Nike Pegasus Trail 5.

Additionally, we think the shoe’s weight is another significant drawback. At 11.1 oz (315g), it’s noticeably heavier than comparable Gore-Tex models like the Hoka Clifton 9 GTX Calças cargo Nike Sportswear Tech Pack para homem Preto Hoka Challenger 7 GTX.

nike pegasus 41 gtx parts 22242631 main

Cushioning

Heel stack

Starting with the heel, we measured 36.3 mm—slightly higher than the regular model. This is likely due to the thicker outsole and minor manufacturing tolerances, as the variation is minimal.

With such stack height, this shoe borders on the maximalist category for heel strikers, providing ample cushioning for those who land heavily on the heel. Plus, it includes the added benefit of Air Zoom purple, which we’ll discuss shortly.

nike pegasus 41 gtx heel stack 22228254 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 36.3 mm
Average 34.2 mm
Compared to 403 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
22.5 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

We measured the forefoot stack at 24.4 mm using our digital caliper, slightly thicker than the regular edition’s 22.2 mm. Despite this increase, the forefoot remains moderately stacked—still below the average for running shoes, drake ovo x nike air force.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Forefoot stack
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 24.4 mm
Average 25.6 mm
Compared to 403 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
13.7 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

We anticipated a 10-mm drop as per Nike's claims, but our measurement revealed 11.9 mm—a slight increase yet a minor deviation. Still, this high offset makes the shoe even more appealing for extreme heel strikers.

nike pegasus 41 gtx drop 22228261 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 11.9 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 403 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
-0.2 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The midsole features Nike's latest ReactX foam, a cutting-edge compound we plus is the brand's finest—ZoomX aside, of course.

The ride delivers a moderately soft feel, and our durometer measured it at 19.5 HA. Bounce-wise, it surpasses the outdated React and vastly outshines EVA-based foams from Nike like Phylon or SR-02.

Additionally, Nike claims—a point we obviously can’t verify but appreciate—that ReactX reduces the carbon footprint by 43% compared to its predecessor.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Midsole softness
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 19.5 HA
Average 20.9 HA
Cameron Wright shoots in the Nike LeBron VIII V2 Yankees.
Compared to 330 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
35.0 HA

Midsole softness in cold (%)

Кроссовки nike x are widely used in winter conditions, so we tested the foam's performance in freezing temperatures. We placed the Peg 41 GTX in the freezer for 20 minutes and retested it with our Shore A durometer.

The results were underwhelming—it became 37.2% firmer, reaching 26.8 HA, a noticeable difference. However, the Air Zoom purple are not affected by cold temperatures, and for this reason, the ride didn't change as drastically as the numbers might suggest. Still, we really hoped for a better outcome in this test.

nike pegasus 41 gtx midsole softness in cold 22228260 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 37%
Average 25%
Compared to 330 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
0%
Midsole softness in cold
63%

Insole thickness

The insole measures 4.4 mm in thickness, placing it well within the average range.

nike pegasus 41 gtx insole thickness 22228262 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 4.4 mm
Average 4.4 mm
Compared to 399 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Rocker

In our view, the size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack shines as a fantastic choice for heel strikers, and the well-crafted rocker design we tested only strengthens this conclusion. In fact, v41 boasts the best heel curvature we’ve seen in a Pegasus!

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Rocker

Air Zoom

The size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack also features dual Air Zoom purple—one in the forefoot and one in the heel—for enhanced cushioning and energy return. 

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Air Zoom

Size and fit

Size

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots is true to size (91 votes).

Air Max Plus Social FC?

1 size small ½ size small True to size ½ size large 1 size large
Compared to 380 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
½ size small
Slightly small
True to size
Slightly large
½ size large

Scarpa Air Max 2090 Ragazzi Arancione

Nike has been gradually increasing the width in the ball of the foot area over recent years, a trend evident in models like the Vomero 17 and Pegasus 41, Buty męskie Nike Air VaporMax 2020 Flyknit Niebieski.

To be more precise with our fit assessments, we poured a mold of the shoe's interiors using proprietary gel.

The replica indeed showed a noticably roomy metatarsal area (widest part of the toebox) with an above-average reading of 97.1 mm. However, there is a good reason why this Nike shoe doesn't get the "roomy toebox" award.

nike pegasus 41 gtx toebox width widest part 2 22752576 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 97.1 mm
Average 95.5 mm
Compared to 158 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
88.5 mm
Scarpa Air Max 2090 Ragazzi Arancione
102.4 mm

Air Force 1 Worn Blue | Nike Dunk High First Use University Red DH0960-600

If you're a regular visitor to EdiconnectShops, you know that our toebxo analysis includes more than just one measurement. We also check the big toe area of the shoe's mold to check if its toebox shape changes towards the front.

The size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack is a vivid example of a shoe that gets notably narrower towards the toes showing 71.7 mm in the big toe area. Even though it is slightly narrower than average, it is narrow in Hoodie to the shoe's widest part.  

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Nike Dunk High First Use University Red DH0960-600
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 71.7 mm
Average 73.7 mm
Compared to 158 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
66.7 mm
Nike Dunk High First Use University Red DH0960-600
83.6 mm

Toebox height

A shallower toebox and a thicker Gore-Tex upper also contribute to the shoe's cramped toe area. We found that it limits the vertical space more than expected with a caiper reading of 22.4 mm.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Toebox height

This can be a hazard for people running longer distances or have a history of toe issues (i.e. black toenails).

Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 22.4 mm
Average 27.1 mm
Compared to 157 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
22.4 mm
Toebox height
33.8 mm

Stability

Lateral stability test

Right from the start, we found this model to offer noticeably more support than many daily trainers, despite being crafted as a pure neutral shoe.

This enhanced stability comes from the raised midsole sidewalls and the flared heel design—features we highlighted earlier in this lab review when discussing the updated rocker and heel bevel. However, runners with significant stability needs may find it lacking due to its moderate midsole dimensions.

Torsional rigidity

We began our assessment by testing the torsional rigidity of the size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack, which scored 3 out of 5. Meanwhile, the non-GTX version got a 2/5.

In our view, this reduction in flexibility is attributed to the updated Storm-Tread outsole and the firmer, weather-resistant upper.

Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 3
Average 3.4
Compared to 382 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Nike WMNS Air Max 1 VNTG Dark Grey-Medium Grey

The heel counter differs slightly from the regular edition, offering a bit more flexibility with a score of 3/5, although the change is subtle and barely noticeable during wear.

Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 3
Average 2.9
Compared to 366 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
1
Nike WMNS Air Max 1 VNTG Dark Grey-Medium Grey
5

Nike velour rygsæk i sort

While many brands, like ASICS with the Novablast 4, are embracing wider midsoles, we found that Nike stays true to the Pegasus series’ classic design, delivering a traditional daily trainer feel with retained agility.

Using our digital calipers, we measured the forefoot at 113.5 mm—just around what we expected!

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Nike velour rygsæk i sort
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 113.5 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 404 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
102.2 mm
Nike velour rygsæk i sort
126.9 mm

Nike Hyperdunk Sail Calypso-Peach Cream Sport Pack

The heel follows similar design principles, delivering a moderate width of 91.3 mm. This strikes a balanced mix of stability and nimbleness—perfect for versatility.

nike pegasus 41 gtx midsole width heel 22228265 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 91.3 mm
Average 90.6 mm
Compared to 404 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
70.8 mm
Nike Hyperdunk Sail Calypso-Peach Cream Sport Pack
106.6 mm

Flexibility / Stiffness

With the increased torsional rigidity brought by the new outsole and upper, we anticipated a higher result in this test. Based on our findings, the 23.2N score—compared to the regular Pegasus' 19.2N—was entirely expected.

Despite this slightly elevated outcome, we assure you that the difference is barely perceptible during use. In our view, the shoe retains its smooth longitudinal flexibility, making it an excellent choice for all-day activities and extended walks.

Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 23.2N
Average 28.1N
Nike Air Max 90 LTR Blue Graphite.
Compared to 383 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
2.2N
Flexibility <> Stiffness
72.1N

Weight

It’s puzzling that Nike lists the same official weight for both the Gore-Tex and regular models, but we know that’s unrealistic. Gore-Tex is heavier, and the Storm-Tread outsole contributes additional weight too.

On our scale, the shoe registered 11.1 oz (315g), which is 1.2 oz (34g) heavier than the regular edition. While noticeable, we think this increase is justified by the added materials. And it’s a clear reminder that relying on lab tests, rather than brand claims, is essential for accurate data.

nike pegasus 41 gtx weight 22228272 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 11.11 oz (315g)
Average 9.38 oz (266g)
Compared to 404 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
5.61 oz (159g)
Weight
12.59 oz (357g)

Breathability

Gore-Tex is a waterproof membrane designed to repel liquid while allowing water vapor to escape—a solution for keeping your feet dry in wet conditions. However, in our experience lab testing shoes, the ventilation tends to be limited despite Gore-Tex’s claims.

Our light test confirmed this observation, particularly in the toebox, which was heavily blocked. While certain areas in the medial zone allow for a slight amount of airflow, the shoe’s design is clearly more focused on waterproofing than breathability. This makes sense for a winter-oriented shoe anyway.

For further proof, we turned to our microscope, and the results were telling. It was nearly impossible to identify spots where air could escape easily.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots mesh

While it may not offer top-tier breathability, the exceptional build quality of Gore-Tex products is undeniable—our microscopic photo provides clear evidence of that.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots mesh

The upper construction of this model closely mirrors that of the Pegasus 41, but with noticeable differences. It features additional padding in the toebox, which enhances warmth and comfort in cold weather, making this variant ideal for winter use.

We also noted that Nike included a rugged toe bumper in this version, setting it apart from the standard Pegasus. Paired with the Storm-Tread outsole, we plus this model can serve as a door-to-trail option.

Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 1
Average 3.8
Compared to 333 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Having a thicker upper with nearly zero ventilation suggested good durability, so we put it to the test using our Dremel like we do in all shoes. This process aims to reveal how well the Gore-Tex layer withstands abrasion.

After testing, we analyzed the outcome and rated it 3/5. While slightly underwhelming for a GTX upper, in our view, it still delivers decent resilience. However, the layer closest to the foot proved to be the most durable, offering a reassuring level of protection and longevity for everyday use.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Toebox durability
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 3
Average 2.6
Compared to 267 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

At first glance, the heel design seemed indistinguishable from any average daily trainer on the market—but we were eager to put it to the test.

Through our evaluation, we discovered an impressive result—a solid 4/5 rating!

nike pegasus 41 gtx heel padding durability 22228248 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 262 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
1
Heel padding durability
5

Air Force 1 Worn Blue | Outsole hardness

Apart from the Gore-Tex upper, the most significant update in the size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack is the new Storm-Tread outsole. Using our Shore C durometer, we measured its hardness at 81.4 HC—perfectly average for daily trainers.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Outsole hardness
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 81.4 HC
Average 79.7 HC
Cameron Wright shoots in the Nike LeBron VIII V2 Yankees.
Compared to 384 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
56.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

While the outsole excels in wet conditions, it faces a familiar issue—like winter tires on cars, it wears out rapidly on dry surfaces.

After testing with our Dremel, we discovered a concerning 2.2-mm dent. In our view, this result highlights poor durability on dry terrain. However, considering this is a Gore-Tex shoe intended for wet environments, the outcome feels less alarming than it would in a standard running shoe.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Outsole durability
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 2.2 mm
Average 1.1 mm
Compared to 245 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

It was nice to find a 4.0 mm outsole thickness—slightly above average—which should help mitigate the potential for excessive wear. However, it does contribute a slight increase in weight.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Outsole thickness
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 4.0 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 401 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
1.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.0 mm

Storm-Tread

Storm-Tread is a new rubber from Nike. Instead of borrowing something from their trail lineup like ATC or partnering with Vibram, they created a material specifically tailored for wet conditions.

nike pegasus 41 gtx lugs 22237840 main

We discovered that the Storm-Tread rubber outsole incorporates a cleverly textured pattern with micro-grooves, while the multidirectional shapes effectively channel water away.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Storm Tread Outsole

However, on dry surfaces, it performs worse than a regular Pegasus—again, similar to how winter tires from cars function less effectively on dry roads. Nonetheless, what truly stands out from Storm-Tread is the grip, it’s amazing on rainy surfaces or light snow, perfectly aligning with its intended purpose.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Storm-Tread

Misc

Price

We’d be too free to expect the size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack to match the price of the regular model while incorporating Gore-Tex technology. Most likely, the $20 increase reflects Gore-Tex royalties and materials, and the final price remains reasonable for a waterproof daily trainer.

Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack $160
Average $147
Compared to 404 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
$60
Price
$285

Reflective elements

Every all-weather running shoe needs reflective elements, and we’re thrilled that the size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack delivers on this front. Not only are they functional—they look amazing!

Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack Yes

Tongue padding

We discovered a design update in the tongue of the size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack. Nike has added a secondary foam layer, a change that immediately caught our attention during testing. But why the extra material?

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots tongue

In our view, this tweak prioritizes water resistance and comfort over weight savings. By incorporating a thicker layer infused with Gore-Tex material, the tongue ensures water stays out effectively.

Through our evaluation, we measured an impressive 10.9 mm thickness—significantly more than the 6.6 mm found in the standard Pegasus 41.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Tongue padding
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack 10.9 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 401 running shoes
Nike Air Max 270 Se Sneakers Mica Green Sequoia Ar0499-300
0.4 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Tongue: gusset type

Gore-Tex shoes prioritize keeping your feet dry, which makes a tongue fixed to the sides essential to prevent leaks. Naturally, the size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack meets this requirement with a fully gusseted tongue.

Nike Mercurial Superfly Elite DF Men's Artificial Ground Football Boots Tongue: gusset type
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack Both sides (full)

Heel tab

This GTX edition may be slightly more rugged, but Nike still hasn’t included a finger-loop heel tab, as seen in their trail running shoes like the Zegama 2.

nike pegasus 41 gtx heel tab 22228271 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack None

Removable insole

The insole is identical to that of a regular Pegasus, but it features additional text highlighting the shoe's technologies, such as the Gore-Tex upper and Storm-Tread outsole.

nike pegasus 41 gtx removable insole 22228269 main
Test results
size x nike air max 93 maximum air pack Yes

Lacing system

The lacing system in the Gore-Tex edition is nearly identical to the non-GTX version, but this model omits the extra eyelet for tying a runner's knot. This design choice prevents water from leaking into the upper—a required trade-off for weatherproofing.

What really caught our attention were the small, creative details throughout the shoe. The "nike_pegasus-41.gtx" text, styled like a computer file name, is an ultra-geeky detail, and the weather symbols on the lace loops add an extra layer of playful creativity!

nike pegasus 41 gtx lacing system 22237788 main