Nike Free Commuter (CMTR) – Freedom and flexibility

The Nike Free series is a chapter in itself. And there are many different versions of Nike Free running shoes. This time it is the Nike Free Commuter. And what kind of version is that? We will definitely give you the answer. Below you can find:

  • Test and review of Nike Free Commuter
  • Good and bad about the Nike Free Commuter
  • Find the best price right now on Nike Free
  • What others say about Nike Free Commuter
  • Nike Free Commuter Technical Review

NOTE: Buy through iloebesko andsave 213 crowns. Normal price: 900 kroner, so there are good deals right now.


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Price comparison on Nike Free Commuter

Reseller Leveringstid Country Total price Read more
5-7 dage 687 DKK Til butik
1-7 dage 899 DKK Til butik
 

Nike Free Commuter – what you should note

As we started by saying, Nike Free running shoes come in many different versions. There have been many attempts to create the ultimate “Free” running shoe. But still, I would like to call the Nike Free Commuter a bit unique. At least that’s the feeling I have about the shoe..
I have used the Nike Free running shoe as an everyday shoe before. I have because it is extremely comfortable to wear on a daily basis. But the Nike Free running shoes I have used for this have one drawback. I would probably never run in them. Well, I probably would, but they didn’t last very long.

The special thing about the Nike Free Commuter is precisely the fact that Nike knows that their shoes are used as everyday shoes, which is why they have developed this model with both everyday and running in mind. Our review is of course mostly focused on the running aspect, but we cannot avoid mentioning that it is also an excellent everyday shoe for him or her who walks a lot or maybe just wants to pamper his or her feet..
The version that Iloebesko.dk has tested is actually made completely without “branding details”, which means that there are no obvious Nike marks on the shoe. This means that you can more easily make it match your work clothes.

Nike Free Commuter has a headline called “Versatility all day” and that’s also something you should take note of. Because in my eyes, it does. I think that with the Nike Free Commuter I have a shoe for pretty much everything. An everyday shoe that’s not WAY too sporty. A shoe that can easily be worn as a training shoe in the gym, and last but definitely not least, I have a running shoe.

 

Nike free commuter test and review

 

 

You buy the Nike Free Commuter if you love flexibility

You buy Nike Free Commuter if you love high quality at a good price.

Nike Free Commuter is for feet that love the combination of freedom and support.

Stay away from the Nike Free Commuter if you're looking for a solid mass training running shoe.

 

What have others said about the running shoe?

Below you can find out what others think about the Nike Free Commuter running shoe.

Ulrik Sorensen, interval running shoes

  • I'm definitely not a fan of running long distances in this shoe. It hurts my feet. But it can easily be used (for me) as an interval running shoe.–Ulrik Sorensen

Markus Andersen, Super cool everyday running shoes

  • My job requires me to walk many kilometers a day, which is why I have chosen to wear running shoes. The Nike Free Commuter is perfect for that task. Completely neutral and I actually think it has a better grip than the other Nike Frees I have used for everyday shoes. I have never run in the shoe.–Markus Andersen

Mette Sunesen, Big fan of Nike Free running shoes

  • I'm a huge fan of Nike Free. I use them both for everyday use and for running and fitness. I just love the great flexibility in this running shoe. A clear recommendation from here if you want a light and versatile running shoe.–Mette Sunesen

If you are interested in seeing more reviews and opinions from experts and users around the world, you may want to check out RunRpeat.com out here.There are several opinions about Nike Free CMTR

 

nike free commuter seen from the side

 

 

Cool facts about the shoe

Must know

  • Running style: Neutral
  • Fit: Tight
  • Surface: Hard surface
  • Suggested price: 900 DKK

Nice to know

  • No branding shoe
  • Easy laces
  • Free construction
  • Flywire

Fun to know

  • Weight: 258 grams (men’s size 44)
  • Heel to toe drop: 8 mm
  • Heel: 24mm Forefoot: 16mm
  • Tempo running shoes

 

 

free commuter from the top

 

My first experiences with the Nike Free RN CMTR

The Nike Free Commuter or Nike Free CMTR as it is branded when you search for it on the internet is a bit of a funny size running shoe if you ask me. It has become more of an everyday shoe for me than it actually functions as a running shoe. But I will come back to that later. Right now it is about the running aspect of the shoe.

When Nike Free running shoes arrive at my address, I’m always extra excited about the situation, or at least I am. What kind of running shoe is it, and if so, is it one I can use to run in? In short, not all Nike Free running shoes are ones that my legs/feet, or actually my whole body, can “keep running in.” There can be many different reasons for this. Just to name an example, at the time of writing I have run a lot of kilometers in Nike Free Run Flyknit the shoe, but that the construction of the Nike Free RN Motion Flyknit doesn’t fit me 100% well. Of course, there is the fact that one running shoe has laces and the other running shoe has no laces.
But nevertheless, as always, I was looking forward to receiving the new running shoes.

The Nike Free Commuter arrived and was unpacked. The difference between this running shoe and some of the other running shoes being tested is that this Nike Free Commuter has at least been well-worn before it had its first run. Many of the other running shoes that I test get maybe 2-3 hours at home on my feet before I test them in running and on the road. I had probably worn the Nike Free RN Commuter for 8-10 full workdays before I ran for the first time. And there is a good reason for that, it is that the Nike Free Commuter does not look like all the other running shoes, it is a running shoe but it just has some huge advantages in terms of design because it looks like a pair of really cool sneakers. Therefore, this one could also be used at work.
Even before I set off to run in it, I made some experiences that we subsequently researched a bit, and found out that we were not alone. When you receive the shoe, it is built with a very tight fit. It fits the foot really well. In fact, it was so tight at the beginning that I almost felt on some of the long working days that my feet were a little squeezed and could have tended to sleep a little on the outside when I got home from work. They don’t do that anymore, and they actually haven’t done that on any run yet – and your feet grow a little due to the heat.

First run – is as always a run without too much pressure. There needs to be time to feel and feel the shoe, and it usually also requires a few stops along the way to adjust the fit or the like. I would aim for 5km on the run, and it was run at a steady pace. But the first experiences with this Nike Free Commuter as a running shoe were that we were definitely dealing with a very light and flexible running shoe, and I was also incredibly happy with the fit. I’m not sure everyone shares that, because if you’re not a fan of completely tight running shoes, you most likely won’t like the Nike Free RN Commuter.
Something that actually surprised me quite a bit here was the firm and good fit in the heel of the Nike Free Commuter. So it’s not that we were dealing with a stiff and hard heel cap, but I’ve just had Nike Free experiences before where the heel cap or heel area was perhaps not to my taste. But I think that was the case here.

More trips in the Nike Free Commuter gave more experiences

Before I start writing more, let’s just get this straight. The results of this Nike Free shoe were exactly the same as with pretty much every other Nike Free running shoe I’ve tested or have on my shelf. It won’t be my preferred running shoe when I know the run will be more than 10 kilometers..
In short, I don’t think there is the best support in the shoe for my feet when we reach beyond that number of kilometers.

On the other hand, without blinking my allergy-stricken eyes, I would recommend this running shoe to anyone who wants a tight, flexible and fast running shoe that can be used for both speed runs, interval and tempo runs. And it is also a clear plus for me that I don’t have to lug multiple pairs of running shoes in the car to work. This one covers both needs on the days I need to pace myself on the trip..
And that brings me to once again praising the Nike Free RN CMTR as a versatile shoe. I mainly use mine as an everyday shoe, and then occasionally as an interval running shoe. But in addition to running, it has also become a fantastic training shoe for me. And here I mean, for example, training in the fitness center, or circuit/gentle crossfit training. Not the, from the shoe’s point of view, hard exercises in crossfit, such as climbing ropes. But the fact that I can get a training shoe with such great flexibility and at the same time have the feeling of being in a running shoe, is absolutely perfect for me. Please note, however, that the shoe is not recommended for what I write here – so it is entirely at your own risk, because the upper is relatively fragile. So think twice.

 

flexible running shoe - nike free commuter

 

Size selection

I would definitely define this Nike Free Commuter as quite normal in size. There is nothing else to be aware of other than the fact that the shoe is a bit narrow/tight fitting. I use the same size in this Nike running shoe as I do in all others. And for me it is half a size up compared to many of the other running brands.
You are also very welcome to use oursize guide

 

Advantages and disadvantages

 

Benefits

The price

Personally, I think you get a lot of shoes/running shoes for the money. 900,- is not a scary amount. However, it is also the type of shoe that usually can't be found much cheaper online. But then it's good that the starting point is relatively low.

Used all day

It's quite fantastic for me that I get a running shoe or everyday shoe here that can be used all day. My feet always have optimal opportunities to get the right softness. I really like that.

No branding

It usually doesn't bother me at all that there are scuffs and big marks on the shoes. But that's why there's something cool about this shoe when there's nothing. I can see that it can win over many different types of people, that they can now get a work shoe/everyday shoe that can go with much more work clothes.

The flexibility

That's the whole concept of Nike Free running shoes. But that's why it shouldn't be hidden. Getting such a free and flexible running shoe is really good for my (your) feet.

Disadvantages

Fragile upper part

Of course, it is an advantage that you get such a soft, free and flexible shoe in the Nike Free Commuter. But unfortunately, it also has the downside that the upper becomes a bit fragile. And you shouldn't get near many thorns and branches before the upper can fray.

Multi-shoes

I can see that it might be a bit of a disadvantage for some that the shoe can do so many things. So you really quickly want to run, walk and train in this shoe. And that way you at least reduce the durability a lot.

Lacing system

A minor detail, but still a bit annoying when I finally get to run in the shoe every now and then. I find that even though there are Flywire cables in the shoe, which are supposed to create the natural support on the outside of the shoe, the lacing system itself has a tendency to slip a bit. So on trips over 5 kilometers I can easily end up having to tighten the shoes an extra time.

Narrow, very narrow

The shoe is basically very VERY tight. It will get better once you have walked and run in the shoe, but that tightness around the foot will of course still be there. I think that can be a hindrance for some. The Nike Free Commuter will definitely be discarded by some runners because of that.


 

a pair of nike free commuter

 

 

Analysis Part 1: Who can use Nike Free CMTR?

The first part of the analysis of the running shoe is aimed at who, what and when with the shoe. Who will use the shoe and what should that person expect from the shoe.

Which running style

If we were to put a running style on the Nike Free CMTR these days, it is clearly a neutral running style that the shoe is aimed at. But with a Nike Free running shoe like this, it may not be the right focus to talk about running style. The shoe is aimed at those who want the free feeling. That is why many people think of Natural running when they think of Nike Free. And there you don’t really worry about running style. There you let the body and its natural ability to “shock absorb” handle the problems..
But if you are looking for a running style, you need to be a neutral runner to get the most optimal feel from the shoe.

Fit

As we have mentioned earlier in the test, the shoe is a bit narrow. No, it actually isn’t, but it is extremely tight-fitting, and therefore it can easily feel narrow. The undersigned does not have the world’s narrowest foot, and I also admit that I had to turn to the “width” but the conclusion must clearly be that it is not narrow (because then I would have probably given up running in it) but it is just really, really tight-fitting. You have to be aware of that when and if you choose to buy the Nike Free Commuter.

  • Size: Regular
  • Heel: Tight fit
  • Midfoot: Tight fit
  • Forefoot: Tight fit
  • Shoe tip: Regular
  • Arch structure: low
  • Shoe shape: semi-curved

Surfaces and conditions

You should never ever consider running with this shoe anywhere other than on firm and hard surfaces. Ordinary paths and asphalt. The upper is very fragile, which is why it is far from advisable to take a walk in the forest in this Nike Free Commuter. And if you do, stay away from thorns and branches as much as possible..
If you run in mud or similar, it’s not like the shoe will break, but it’s good at absorbing dirt etc. and I’ve found that it can be difficult to clean after too much dirt. So think about that when you’re speeding off in your Nike Free Commuter.

Price level

This is where I think the shoe wins a lot. I have written previously that I think the Nike Free Commuter is at a very acceptable price level when and if you look soberly at what you get in the shoe. I am at least satisfied with the price. Of course, it can be individual what you want to give, and Nike Free running shoes are not known to fall in price much. but we are still under the magical thousand kroner.

Weight of Nike Free Commuter

At least it’s not the weight that will weigh you down. With its 258 grams for a size 44, you can say that the shoe belongs to the “light end of the scale”. This is one of the many advantages that I personally really like about the shoe.

 

weight on nike free commuter

 

Care and maintenance of the Nike Free Commuter

The usual rules apply here. Stay far away from the washing machine when considering washing your Nike Free running shoes. In fact, this type of shoe is probably even more susceptible to the “dangerous” heat in the washing machine. So if you need to wash your Nike Free Computer, do it with a wet cloth and some lukewarm water instead..
You will get the freshest running shoes by remembering to take out your insole when you are finished running. Let the shoes dry naturally and be ventilated.

Drop height in the Nike Free Commuter

Nike Free Commuter has a drop height of 8mm. So it is actually a relatively high drop when we are talking about a running shoe that should actually be aimed at natural running. But the fact that the drop is 8mm gives you as a runner a more “normal running” that you are used to from classic running shoes. In the Nike Free Commuter you will be guided to land via the heel and start your running from there.

Analysis Part 2: Technical Review of the Nike Free Commuter

The more technical and detail-oriented review of the running shoe. Here we go through the technical details of the Nike Free Commuter.

The outsole

So it is very clear to everyone that this shoe is partly created for running on firm ground and perhaps 20% of the development has gone towards making it an everyday shoe as well. The outsole has virtually no profiling, and will therefore have no grip on loose ground.

 

 

Midsole

The classic Free midsole. It gives you a lot of flexibility, reasonable cushioning and it is always a midsole that gives you very high comfort. A Nike Free running shoe is not something evolutionary when it comes to the midsole. It is actually very straight out of the box, and the sole is created with freedom, cushioning and the flexible approach in mind.

 

nike free midsole

 

Heel

I think the heel has a really good (and tight) fit. It fits really well to the heel and Achilles tendon. The material used in the heel area is super nice. The neoprene-like material closes tightly around your heel, and with the wide elastic that is connected to the rest of the upper, you get, in my opinion, the most optimal heel comfort in a Nike Free running shoe to date.

 

the heel of the nike free commuter

 

Forefoot

There’s not much revolutionary to write about the forefoot. It’s supported by a Nike Free midsole as we’ve mentioned, and on the upper there’s a little extra protection around the toes. Not protection from impacts etc. but more of an extra protection for the fragile material.
It’s probably important to mention again that we are working with a “narrow/tight” fit in this shoe.

Upper part

A super nice upper in a very comfortable and flexible material. This is where I think the shoe wins so much in my world. A very elastic material sits very close to your foot and gives a super nice tight fit..
The upper has Flywire cables to provide the absolute lightest support for your foot. They are mounted on the side of the shoe and are built together with the lacing system on the shoe. So when you tighten the shoe, you activate the support in the shoe at the same time. On the upper is a light and accessible lacing system. It is elastic and is closed and opened via a small buckle mechanism. So you are quickly out of your shoes, or if you need to adjust during your run, it is quickly done.

 

 

Comparisons to Nike Free Commuter

You probably can’t help but draw a comparison to the Nike Free RN Flyknit. It has many of the same features and largely covers the same needs for a runner. Another running shoe from Nike that could be comparable is Nike Free Run Distance. The same construction of the sole and the upper on this shoe may even remind you even more of the Nike Free CMTR than the Nike Free RN Flyknit does. I have chosen not to draw comparisons with other brands because the Nike Free concept is so unique.

Summary

I am really happy with my Nike Free Commuter. If I look back, most of that joy is probably in the direction of having an everyday shoe that does so much good for my feet. I have used Nike Free 5.0 as an everyday shoe before but I don’t think it reaches anywhere near the same level as the Nike Free Commuter. There is much more support in this new model and it gives your feet much more.
From a running perspective, you can of course run in the shoe, and I do that from time to time, but if I’m going on longer trips or just planned trips, I’ll admit that there are running shoes in my closet that I take out before this one.

Price comparison on Salomon S-lab Speed

Our automatic update constantly keeps an eye on the best prices on Nike Free Commuter for you. Below you will find the best prices right now from our running shoe partners.

 

Reseller Leveringstid Country Total price Read more
5-7 dage 687 DKK Til butik
1-7 dage 899 DKK Til butik