are nike react element 87 running shoes

You know that feeling. You’re standing in front of your closet, staring at a pair of stiff, unforgiving sneakers that look great but have turned your afternoon errands into a punishment for your feet. Or maybe you’ve just come home from a long day on your feet, and your arches are screaming, your heels are aching, and the only thing you want is to sit down and never stand up again. We’ve all been there. The search for a shoe that can bridge the gap between style and genuine, all-day comfort often feels like a myth. You want something that looks sharp enough for a casual office or a night out, but feels like you’re walking on marshmallows. This is exactly the problem that the Nike React Element 87 was designed to solve. It’s not just another sneaker; it’s a case study in how smart materials and thoughtful design can transform your daily experience, one step at a time.

What Makes the React Element 87 So Special?

Let’s strip away the marketing hype and talk about the heart of this shoe: the midsole. The “React” in its name refers to Nike’s proprietary foam technology. Think of traditional foam like a dense, stiff sponge. It’s supportive, sure, but it doesn’t do much to absorb shock or bounce back. React foam, on the other hand, is like a memory foam mattress for your foot. It’s incredibly soft and plush when you first step into it, instantly conforming to the shape of your foot. But the real magic happens when you push off. Unlike some soft foams that just squish down and leave you feeling flat, React foam is springy. It compresses under pressure and then snaps back, giving you a subtle, energy-returning boost with every step. This isn’t just about comfort for the sake of comfort; it’s about reducing fatigue. Your feet and legs don’t have to work as hard to absorb the impact of walking or running, so you can stay on your feet longer without feeling like you’ve run a marathon.

The “Element 87” part of the name points to the shoe’s design inspiration. It’s a reimagining of a classic Nike silhouette, but with a futuristic twist. The upper is made from a translucent, semi-sheer mesh material. This isn’t just a stylistic choice; it’s a functional one. That mesh is incredibly lightweight and breathable. Your feet won’t feel trapped or sweaty, even on warmer days. It also gives the shoe a unique, almost deconstructed look that has made it a favorite among fashion-forward sneakerheads. But don’t let the delicate appearance fool you. The mesh is reinforced with thin, welded overlays that provide structure and support exactly where you need it, like around the heel and the lacing system. It’s a perfect marriage of form and function—a shoe that looks like a piece of modern art but is built for the grind of daily life.

How Does It Feel on Foot?

Imagine slipping your foot into a glove made of parachute silk, then standing on a thick, bouncy yoga mat. That’s the closest description I can give you. The first step is a revelation. The React foam is so soft that you feel a slight sink, but it’s immediately followed by a gentle rebound. It’s not a mushy, unstable feeling; it’s a controlled, cushioned ride. The shoe feels incredibly light on your foot, almost like you’re wearing a slipper. The mesh upper wraps around your foot without any pressure points, and the padded collar and tongue lock your heel in place without feeling restrictive. For walking, this shoe is a godsend. Whether you’re navigating city streets, walking through an airport, or spending a day at a theme park, your feet will thank you. The cushioning is so effective that you might find yourself looking for excuses to walk farther.

It’s important to be honest about its limitations, though. While the React Element 87 is incredibly comfortable for walking and casual wear, it’s not a performance running shoe. The translucent upper, while beautiful, isn’t as durable or supportive as the engineered mesh or knit found in dedicated running shoes. The sole doesn’t have the aggressive traction pattern you’d want for wet pavement or trail running. If you’re planning to run a 10k or sprint, this is not the shoe for you. It’s a lifestyle shoe that borrows running technology for everyday comfort. Think of it as a luxury SUV: it’s comfortable, stylish, and capable on the road, but you wouldn’t take it rock crawling. Its sweet spot is the daily commute, the long walk, the casual hangout—anywhere you want to look good and feel great.

Style, Fit, and Practical Considerations

The React Element 87 has become a staple in streetwear for a reason. Its unique, see-through upper and chunky, sculpted sole give it a distinct, avant-garde look that stands out from the sea of plain white sneakers. It pairs surprisingly well with a wide range of outfits. You can dress them down with jeans and a t-shirt, or dress them up with tailored trousers and a blazer for a smart-casual look. The semi-transparent mesh also means you have to think about your socks. Bold, colorful socks become part of the shoe’s aesthetic, while no-show socks give it a cleaner, more streamlined look. It’s a shoe that invites a little bit of personal expression.

When it comes to fit, there are a few things to keep in mind. The React Element 87 tends to run a bit snug, especially for those with wider feet. The translucent mesh doesn’t stretch much, so if you’re between sizes, it’s almost always recommended to go half a size up. This gives your toes a little more room to spread out and prevents any pinching on the sides. If you have particularly wide feet, you might even want to consider going a full size up. The lacing system is also a bit unique. The laces are thin and round, and they feed through fabric loops that are integrated into the mesh. You can adjust them for a custom fit, but the overall lockdown is more about a gentle hug than a vice-like grip.

Durability is another factor to weigh. The translucent mesh is surprisingly tough for its delicate look, but it’s not indestructible. It can be prone to snagging on sharp objects like Velcro or rough edges. The white foam midsole is also a magnet for dirt and scuffs. If you’re a clean freak, this might drive you a little crazy. A simple solution is to apply a water and stain repellent spray before you wear them for the first time. This will help the mesh repel dirt and make cleaning much easier. For the midsole, a gentle scrub with a soft brush and some mild soap usually does the trick. Think of them as a high-maintenance friend who’s worth the effort because they’re so much fun to be around.

Practical Buying Tips and Final Recommendations

So, should you buy a pair of Nike React Element 87s? The answer depends on what you’re looking for. If your number one priority is a shoe that feels like a cloud for all-day walking and standing, and you want a unique, conversation-starting design, then this is an excellent choice. It’s a fantastic upgrade from a basic lifestyle shoe for anyone who values comfort and style equally. However, if you need a shoe for serious athletic activity, or if you prioritize durability and easy maintenance above all else, you might want to look at something with a more robust upper and a solid colorway.

Here are a few practical tips to help you make the right decision:

• Go Half a Size Up: This is the most important piece of advice. The snug fit is the most common complaint. Sizing up ensures you get the full, comfortable experience.
• Consider Your Sock Game: Embrace the see-through upper. Use it as an opportunity to show off your favorite fun socks. It’s a built-in styling feature.
• Protect Your Investment: Buy a good quality sneaker protector spray and apply it before your first wear. It will save you a lot of heartache later.
• Look for Sales: The React Element 87 has been out for a while and is often found on sale or at discount retailers. Don’t pay full retail price if you can help it.
• Know Your Purpose: Use them for walking, travel, and casual style. Don’t buy them for running, hiking, or heavy-duty work.

In the end, the Nike React Element 87 is a masterclass in how to apply high-performance technology to everyday life. It takes the science of running shoe cushioning and wraps it in a package that is undeniably stylish. It solves the very real problem of wanting to look put-together without sacrificing the comfort of your feet. It’s not a perfect shoe for everyone, but for the person who spends their days on the move and wants to do it in style, it is a revelation. Your feet will finally get the vacation they’ve been begging for, even while you’re working hard.