The Nike Lunar Presto is a Retro Update Done Right, Here's Why

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Complex Original

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Nike_Lunar_Presto
Photo By Chris Randise

Category: Running
Best For:
Keeping your feet comfortable throughout the day
Star Feature: Lunarlon Midsole
Weight:
10 oz

It was a regular Wednesday night and of buddy of mine and I decided to make a stop at the Nike outlets to test our luck. After walking up and down a few aisles, I was disappointed and decided it’s time to check the back wall when out of nowhere, this bright luminescent orange made me feel some type of way. It was a quick blast from the past, so I pulled the trigger. In my hands I held a pair of Nike Lunar Prestos, (Nikes remodel of the extremely popular classic released back in 2000, the Air Presto) and for $30 bucks, why not?

The newly remodeled Presto has made it's way back onto shelves in 2013, and this time it's better. Unlike the Air Prestos, which were sized from XXS - XXL, have finally made the switch to traditional sizes, making it a bit easier for everyone to find their size. Nike has also done away with the full plastic armor and designed this unique lace cage broken into two separate sectors, one for the forefoot, and one for the heel. These are definitely one of the better Nike Retro's we've seen and I think they've done a wonderful job. They shoe is very true to the original, but with up to date performance-type modifications. Bravo Nike.

Nike_Lunar_Presto
Photo By Chris Randise

Nike_Lunar_Presto
Photo By Chris Randise

Nike_Lunar_Presto
Photo By Chris Randise

Nike_Lunar_Presto
Photo By Chris Randise

Nike_Lunar_Presto
Photo By Chris Randise

Nike_Lunar_Presto
Photo By Chris Randise

Nike_Lunar_Presto
Photo By Chris Randise

Nike_Lunar_Presto
Photo By Chris Randise

$100

RELATED: The 10 Best Nike Lunar Running Shoes
RELATED: 10 Best Nike Lunar TR1 Colorways (So Far)

1.

review_firstimpression

First Impression

Like I said before, it was Deja Vu. I had jumped into a past memory of holding these shoes as a kid. They were so different, yet so similar and I couldn't have been more excited to try them on. Once you slide your foot into the Prestos there's no going back. The way they fit, the comfort, the easy on and off, the Lunar midsole— everything— is unmatched. I was shocked by I was wearing and decided I needed them.

2.

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Fit

The expression “like a glove” in no way can be overused when describing the way this shoe fits. They hug the entirety of your foot really well and are true to size. I don’t suggest going a half size up, because your foot will have the tendency to slide inside the shoe. These are better snug. As far as the Flywire lace locks and heel support, they work perfectly. The laces on the one hand seem almost unnecessary; I’m convinced they’re just there for show. However the heel support is really efficient. The drastic angle at the Achilles cage is noticeably felt – It gives you a very secure and snug feel all while the cables have constant tension.

3.

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Comfort

Comfort is one of the first words that pop into people’s heads when they see this shoe. Instant recognition of the sock-like upper seems to sell the idea of comfort better than any other running shoe on the market, and the Lunar Prestos back it up. When the soft, breathable, stretchy dynamic mesh upper meets with the springy and cushioned Lunarlon midsole, you get a shoe meant to hug your foot throughout your entire day, not just your runs.

4.

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Breathability

Breathability is the Prestos middle name. The sock-like upper features a quilted pattern for better ventilation, which makes them perfect for hot weather and summer type conditions. That’s when this shoe thrives. It’s a bit too cold in the winter season to sport these shoes outside, but that’s a testament to their ability to keep your feet cool.

5.

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Style

Style is a huge part of the Nike Presto, without it they wouldn’t still be popular 14 years later. A big reason these shoes have withstood the test of time is because of their unique slip on, sleek, sock-like style. The luminescent orange really pops against the two different shades of gray, all while the completely redesigned lace cage provides an armor type shell showcasing the orange Flywire. In other words – they’re dope.

6.

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Lunarlon Midsole

The Lunarlon midsole is one of Nike’s best midsole platforms out right now and rightly so. The midsole is layered with a soft, resilient foam encased in a more firm and supportive foam. This leaves your foot standing on a midsole that adds a slight spring to your step, and helps distribute your weight more evenly. With each and every step you notice how soft and supportive the sole really is. It does not disappoint at all. These are perfect for long hours on your feet and QUICK workouts. I wouldn’t recommend going out on a 5 mile run with these on – you might feel differently about the shoe after.

7.

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Wearability

The reason these shoes were, and still are so popular is thanks to their wearability. They slip on and off with no trouble at all, and seriously, when can you not wear these? They make for the perfect before and after performance shoe, they’re great for those never ending days on your feet, and they’re just plain comfortable. Notice I didn’t mention anything about actually performing in these shoes. In my opinion, they lack a little too much support to be going crazy in, they’re more of a “lounge and hang out in a comfortable and stylish slip on running shoe”.

8.

review_post_run

Final Verdict

All-in-all this shoe is one of a kind and without a doubt needs to be in your rotation. The spring season is a stone’s throw away so it’s time to start putting some thought into the running shoe selection. If these pictures and review don’t help the shoes make the cut then you’ll just have to try a pair on for yourself –you will buy them.

Bottom line: Although not the best running shoe, it’s still one of the most “wearable” shoes. Whether your looking for the most unique style, the easiest slip on, or the most comfortable shoe, the Nike Lunar Presto meets all standards.

RELATED: The 10 Best Nike Lunar Running Shoes
RELATED: 10 Best Nike Lunar TR1 Colorways (So Far)