The Nike V5 RNR Gym Red is Nike’s low-cost take on the popular Y2K runner trend, offering a simplified alternative to the Vomero 5 while keeping a similar visual DNA. The Gym Red name comes directly from the colorway itself, with bold red tones paired against white and metallic accents to give the shoe a sporty, everyday-friendly look.
The Nike V5 RNR debuted in 2025 as part of Nike’s push to compete directly with models like the New Balance 530 and ASICS Gel-1130. Unlike the Vomero 5, this version skips Zoom Air and Cushlon cushioning in favor of basic EVA foam to keep costs down. The main appeal here is the familiar early-2000s runner aesthetic, paired with a Gym Red, White, and Metallic Silver combo that stands out more than most neutral-heavy options in this category.
I picked these up because I’d been wanting to try Nike’s more budget-friendly Y2K runner, and this colorway happened to line up perfectly with my office and work colors. The idea was to have something comfortable, casual, and replaceable as a daily work beater. I also had a 10% off Nike coupon stacked on top of a sale price, which brought these down to around $71 shipped, and at that point it pretty much sealed the deal.
The sneaker comes in a standard orange Nike box and includes white skinny oval laces. Packaging is very straightforward and exactly what you’d expect from a general-release Nike lifestyle runner.
Materials
Material-wise, the Nike V5 RNR uses basic synthetic leather, mesh, and shiny synthetic metallic overlays. I think some of the materials are even recycled on the model! This is clearly a cost-conscious shoe, and while nothing here feels premium or special, the materials are serviceable and consistent with what Nike usually delivers at this price point. For a $95 retail sneaker, the quality feels adequate and gets the job done without any major complaints.
Fit & Comfort
Fit is true to size, though the shoe does look a bit bulkier on foot than you might expect for the size. Some people say the uppers fit similarly to a Vomero 5 but slightly more snug, and while I don’t notice the snugness, I will say these are not quite as comfy overall as the Vomero. Width feels fine for me, and underfoot comfort comes from a thick slab of basic EVA foam that feels stable and supportive. While it’s not the softest setup out there, the padding and insole help add some plushness, resulting in solid step-in comfort. I’m not sure I’d wear these all day, but for several hours at a time, they’ve been easy to rock.
If these are sold out at different stores online, you can try looking for them on eBay.
Colorway: Gym Red / Black / Metallic Silver
Style Code: HJ5228-601
Retail Price: $95
Year of Release: 2025