Retro DNA has never been so performant. In 2025, the Swoosh brand has resurrected the spirit of old-school running with the Nike Initiator, a hybrid pair as formidable for logging miles as it is for hitting the streets. Designed for runners but also for sneakerheads, the silhouette checks all the boxes. Performance. Comfort. Timeless design. The WhenToCop? editorial team put it to the test.
From the very first strides, the Nike Initiator reveals its potential. Lightweight and well-ventilated, its upper guarantees optimal breathability while eliminating heat and moisture. On the support side, Nike delivers with strategically placed reinforcements: the foot is precisely wrapped, limiting lateral movement while leaving natural freedom in the stride. A detail that makes the difference for those seeking stability. But the real strength of this model lies in its cushioning, its plush midsole effectively absorbs shocks and reduces muscle fatigue to deliver a smooth transition with every step.
Launched in the late 2000s, the Nike Initiator first established itself as a reliable running shoe, offering firm support and soft cushioning. Designed for runners seeking performance, it stood out with its breathable upper and design. And while the pair accompanied many athletes for several years, it gradually faded from the radar. It was only in 2019 that the Nike Initiator made a notable comeback amid the revival of retro silhouettes. Offered at a competitive price (50 euros), the Nike Initiator scored a resounding new success. Today, the design returns to the sneaker scene with a version that is just as technical, but now tailored to meet the needs of a wider audience.
Thinking through every last detail
Where many running shoes show their limits, the Nike Initiator stands out with formidable grip. Its outsole, sculpted with deep grooves, guarantees optimal traction on roads, trails, and even slightly rough terrain. A well-designed flexibility that delivers impressive responsiveness and a reassuring grip, even when the terrain gets tough.
Another strong point: its durability. Made with resistant materials, this pair is designed to absorb impacts and withstand the miles. And if performance is there, the design is not to be outdone. Nike plays the Y2K card with a silhouette inspired by the 2000s. Dynamic lines. Mix of technical materials. Understated colors. The Nike Initiator fits perfectly into the current era with a wide selection of colorways. The model plays on subtle tones, refined details, and impeccable finishes that showcase the sportswear brand's craftsmanship.
With a 4.5-star rating on the Nike Initiator "Smoke Grey", the pair has already won over many fans. Reviews are unanimous. It is hard not to succumb to the Initiator's call when it comes at an attractive price of 79.99 euros. Comfortable. Sturdy. Elegant. The pair stands as a true must-have for those who want a versatile shoe on a budget. The finishing touch? Nike offers free shipping and 30-day returns for its members. The perfect opportunity to test the model with complete peace of mind. So, performance or lifestyle? Why choose when you can have both?
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