8.2
/10
BEST FOR ULTRALIGHT, MINIMALIST PACKING
8.2
/10
BEST FOR ULTRALIGHT, MINIMALIST PACKING
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
Nike Free RN 5.0 Review: Best Packable Minimalist
The Ultimate Space-Saving, Featherlight Travel Shoe for Minimalists.
If every single ounce and cubic inch in your carry-on is precious, the Nike Free RN 5.0 series (especially the 2018 Flyknit) might be the travel shoe you've been searching for. Renowned for its astonishing ability to pack almost completely flat and its incredibly lightweight design, it's a long-standing favorite for minimalist travelers. This detailed review, based on my 4-day test in Lisbon, explores if its "barely there" feel and packability make it a truly essential item for your next trip.
🎒
Packability
10
Its unstructured knit upper and deeply grooved sole allow it to be squashed almost completely flat – I easily fit mine into the side pocket of my Aer daypack.
🪶
Lightweight
9.5
At around 6.5oz, these are among the lightest sneakers available, adding virtually no noticeable weight to your luggage.
🤸
Flexibility
9
The sole's deep flex grooves are designed to promote natural foot movement, offering an experience very close to being barefoot.
🌬️
Breathability
8.5
The knit upper provided excellent airflow, keeping my feet comfortable and cool during warm 75°F spring days in Lisbon.
Perfect For
🎒
Ultralight Packers
🪶
Barefoot Enthusiasts
🤸
Warm Weather Casual
👣
Hotel Gym Use
👟
Flight Comfort
Quality & Comfort
The comfort of the Free RN 5.0 is very specific: if you embrace a minimalist, "feel the ground" philosophy, these are remarkable. The knit upper, as u/anonymous on r/onebag pointed out, is "breathable and lightweight," feeling soft and sock-like with no break-in needed. They were perfect for casual strolls (2-3 miles) around Lisbon's Baixa district and for my morning jogs along the Tagus river (around 3-4 miles). However, when I pushed them for a longer 6-mile exploration of the hilly Alfama district, the lack of cushioning became evident by hour 3; my feet, accustomed to more support for such distances on hard surfaces, started to feel it. So, while user u/GiggityYay on r/onebag asked if they could handle "15-20 miles a day," for most people not fully adapted to minimalist footwear, the answer for that kind of daily mileage on concrete is likely a "no." But for light runs (up to 5k, as the same user hoped) or as an ultra-light shoe for hotel gym sessions, they are excellent. They run true to size for a snug, secure fit.
Durability
For such an incredibly lightweight and flexible shoe, the durability of the Nike Free RN (particularly the 2018 model) is often praised by users as being surprisingly good. My pair showed no signs of undue wear after the Lisbon trip. The knit upper is resilient enough for its intended light use. The main area where wear will eventually show, as expected with a minimalist design, is the outsole. Because it's mostly exposed foam with minimal rubber reinforcement, extensive and continuous use on very abrasive concrete surfaces will lead to it wearing down faster than a traditional sneaker with a full rubber outsole. However, for its intended purpose as a packable, flexible shoe for light to moderate activity and travel, it lasts reasonably well. To keep them in good shape, gentle hand washing and air drying is recommended; machine washing might stretch or damage the delicate knit over time.
Packability
This is where the Nike Free RN 5.0 is an undisputed champion and why it’s a legend among one-bag travelers. As Nike's own marketing for some versions stated, "The packable design makes the shoe easy to stuff into your bag." This is no exaggeration. I was able to flatten them and slide them into the side water bottle pocket of my Tom Bihn Synik 30 daypack. They take up less space than a rolled-up t-shirt. This makes them a perfect secondary shoe for travel, a comfortable option for long flights (easy to slip on and off), or even a primary shoe for dedicated minimalist travelers who value space and weight savings above all else. You could easily pack these AND a more robust primary walking shoe without any significant impact on your luggage capacity.
Functionality
The Nike Free RN 5.0 is functionally designed to maximize natural foot movement and provide ultimate packability. The deep flex grooves in the sole allow for exceptional foot articulation, closely mimicking the sensation of being barefoot. Its lightweight and highly breathable nature make it ideal for warmer climates, like the pleasant 75°F spring weather I experienced in Lisbon, or for keeping your feet cool during light workouts. Some versions even feature a collapsible heel section, allowing them to be conveniently worn as slip-on mules – super handy for quick trips out of a hostel room, padding around an Airbnb, or for effortless airport security transitions. They are well-suited for light runs (up to 5k as one user on r/onebag suggested they needed), hotel gym sessions, or as an everyday casual shoe for those who are already comfortable with minimal footwear. They are not designed for technical trails, very cold or wet conditions, or for individuals requiring significant arch support or underfoot cushioning.
Value
Priced typically around $100 (though older, highly-regarded models like the 2018 version can often be found for less, especially on resale sites), the Nike Free RN 5.0 offers exceptional value for a very specific type of traveler. That's about the cost of a couple of "skip-the-line" museum tickets in Europe. If your top priorities are extreme packability, featherlight weight, and a barefoot-like feel, it's hard to find a better option. Its ability to serve multiple light-duty roles – from a casual walker to a light exercise shoe to a comfortable travel slipper – significantly adds to its value proposition. While not suitable for those needing substantial support or cushioning for high-mileage days on hard surfaces, for the dedicated minimalist adventurer, it's a smart, practical, and affordable choice.
"The knitted upper makes them breathable and lightweight, but most importantly, they pack very flat. The only thing that really takes up space are the soles.
u/Gingerstrands (r/onebag)
Did You Know?
The Nike Free line was inspired by Nike's designers observing Stanford University athletes training barefoot on the university's golf course. This led to the development of a shoe that aimed to mimic the benefits of natural foot motion. If you're new to minimalist shoes, transition slowly, perhaps wearing them for a few hours a day initially, to allow your foot and lower leg muscles to adapt.
Quick Verdict
✕
Performance Scores
Minimalist Comfort
7.5
Flexibility
9
Lightweight
9.5
Packability
10
Lightweight
8
Packability
10
Flexibility
9.5
Breathability
8.5
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
The VOYAGER ULTRALIGHT transitions seamlessly from trail to terminal
Performance Analysis
Pros and Cons
Pros
✓
Packs virtually flat, easily fitting into a laptop compartment side pocket, saving crucial luggage space.
✓
Featherlight build (around 6.5oz) means you barely notice them in your bag or on your feet; about 60% lighter than average hiking shoes.
✓
The knit upper offers a breathable, supremely comfortable sock-like fit.
✓
100% waterproof knit (no coating)
Cons
x
Offers zero traditional cushioning; not suitable for those needing arch support or plush comfort on hard surfaces for many hours.
x
The thin outsole can wear down relatively quickly if used extensively and exclusively on very abrasive concrete.
x
Durability of post-2018 versions is reported by the community as being less consistent than the beloved 2018 model.
x
Not designed for rugged trails, very cold conditions, or prolonged wet weather.
Final Verdict
8.2
Essential
The Ultimate Minimalist Shoe for Featherlight, Flat-Packing Travel Freedom.
The Nike Free RN 5.0 (especially the popular 2018 Flyknit version) is a minimalist traveler's dream come true, offering unparalleled packability – it genuinely squashes almost completely flat – and an incredibly lightweight design. During my Lisbon city test, its flexible knit upper and deeply grooved sole provided a liberating "barefoot-like" experience, promoting natural foot movement, and it performed well in the 75°F spring weather for shorter walks and light jogs.
While its minimal cushioning means it isn't suited for all-day, high-impact walking on hard surfaces for most people, it excels as an ultra-packable option for light exercise, as a comfortable travel day companion (especially for flights), or as a secondary pair that adds almost no weight or bulk to your bag. For those who prioritize space-saving design and a natural underfoot feel above all else, the Nike Free RN 5.0 remains a proven and highly-regarded travel shoe.
SHOP NOW
Compare Alternatives
Nike Free RN 5.0
$65.97
Nike's standard 60-day return policy if unworn; 2-year manufacturing defect warranty.
Flexible & Packable Design allows it to fit in the smallest of bag spaces, even a side pocket.
Breathable Knit Upper is ideal for warmer climates and keeping feet cool.
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
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Packable Minimalist
Nike Free RN 5.0
The Ultimate Space-Saving, Featherlight Travel Shoe for Minimalists.
8.2
SCORE
The Ultimate Minimalist Shoe for Featherlight, Flat-Packing Travel Freedom.
Last Updated:
Jun 30, 2025
If every single ounce and cubic inch in your carry-on is precious, the Nike Free RN 5.0 series (especially the 2018 Flyknit) might be the travel shoe you've been searching for. Renowned for its astonishing ability to pack almost completely flat and its incredibly lightweight design, it's a long-standing favorite for minimalist travelers. This detailed review, based on my 4-day test in Lisbon, explores if its "barely there" feel and packability make it a truly essential item for your next trip.
✓
Strengths
Packs virtually flat, easily fitting into a laptop compartment side pocket, saving crucial luggage space.
Featherlight build (around 6.5oz) means you barely notice them in your bag or on your feet; about 60% lighter than average hiking shoes.
The knit upper offers a breathable, supremely comfortable sock-like fit.
Good durability for its minimalist class, with the 2018 model often praised by users for longevity.
X
Consider
Offers zero traditional cushioning; not suitable for those needing arch support or plush comfort on hard surfaces for many hours.
The thin outsole can wear down relatively quickly if used extensively and exclusively on very abrasive concrete.
Durability of post-2018 versions is reported by the community as being less consistent than the beloved 2018 model.
Not designed for rugged trails, very cold conditions, or prolonged wet weather.
View Current Price
Compare
🪶
Lightweight
8
🎒
Packability
10
🤸
Flexibility
9.5
🌬️
Breathability
8.5
🌧️
Weather
9.2
Performance
🎒
Ultralight Packers
🪶
Barefoot Enthusiasts
🤸
Warm Weather Casual
👣
Hotel Gym Use
👟
Flight Comfort
Perfect For
Quality & Comfort
The comfort of the Free RN 5.0 is very specific: if you embrace a minimalist, "feel the ground" philosophy, these are remarkable. The knit upper, as u/anonymous on r/onebag pointed out, is "breathable and lightweight," feeling soft and sock-like with no break-in needed. They were perfect for casual strolls (2-3 miles) around Lisbon's Baixa district and for my morning jogs along the Tagus river (around 3-4 miles). However, when I pushed them for a longer 6-mile exploration of the hilly Alfama district, the lack of cushioning became evident by hour 3; my feet, accustomed to more support for such distances on hard surfaces, started to feel it. So, while user u/GiggityYay on r/onebag asked if they could handle "15-20 miles a day," for most people not fully adapted to minimalist footwear, the answer for that kind of daily mileage on concrete is likely a "no." But for light runs (up to 5k, as the same user hoped) or as an ultra-light shoe for hotel gym sessions, they are excellent. They run true to size for a snug, secure fit.
Durability
For such an incredibly lightweight and flexible shoe, the durability of the Nike Free RN (particularly the 2018 model) is often praised by users as being surprisingly good. My pair showed no signs of undue wear after the Lisbon trip. The knit upper is resilient enough for its intended light use. The main area where wear will eventually show, as expected with a minimalist design, is the outsole. Because it's mostly exposed foam with minimal rubber reinforcement, extensive and continuous use on very abrasive concrete surfaces will lead to it wearing down faster than a traditional sneaker with a full rubber outsole. However, for its intended purpose as a packable, flexible shoe for light to moderate activity and travel, it lasts reasonably well. To keep them in good shape, gentle hand washing and air drying is recommended; machine washing might stretch or damage the delicate knit over time.
Packability
This is where the Nike Free RN 5.0 is an undisputed champion and why it’s a legend among one-bag travelers. As Nike's own marketing for some versions stated, "The packable design makes the shoe easy to stuff into your bag." This is no exaggeration. I was able to flatten them and slide them into the side water bottle pocket of my Tom Bihn Synik 30 daypack. They take up less space than a rolled-up t-shirt. This makes them a perfect secondary shoe for travel, a comfortable option for long flights (easy to slip on and off), or even a primary shoe for dedicated minimalist travelers who value space and weight savings above all else. You could easily pack these AND a more robust primary walking shoe without any significant impact on your luggage capacity.
Functionality
The Nike Free RN 5.0 is functionally designed to maximize natural foot movement and provide ultimate packability. The deep flex grooves in the sole allow for exceptional foot articulation, closely mimicking the sensation of being barefoot. Its lightweight and highly breathable nature make it ideal for warmer climates, like the pleasant 75°F spring weather I experienced in Lisbon, or for keeping your feet cool during light workouts. Some versions even feature a collapsible heel section, allowing them to be conveniently worn as slip-on mules – super handy for quick trips out of a hostel room, padding around an Airbnb, or for effortless airport security transitions. They are well-suited for light runs (up to 5k as one user on r/onebag suggested they needed), hotel gym sessions, or as an everyday casual shoe for those who are already comfortable with minimal footwear. They are not designed for technical trails, very cold or wet conditions, or for individuals requiring significant arch support or underfoot cushioning.
Value
Priced typically around $100 (though older, highly-regarded models like the 2018 version can often be found for less, especially on resale sites), the Nike Free RN 5.0 offers exceptional value for a very specific type of traveler. That's about the cost of a couple of "skip-the-line" museum tickets in Europe. If your top priorities are extreme packability, featherlight weight, and a barefoot-like feel, it's hard to find a better option. Its ability to serve multiple light-duty roles – from a casual walker to a light exercise shoe to a comfortable travel slipper – significantly adds to its value proposition. While not suitable for those needing substantial support or cushioning for high-mileage days on hard surfaces, for the dedicated minimalist adventurer, it's a smart, practical, and affordable choice.
"The knitted upper makes them breathable and lightweight, but most importantly, they pack very flat. The only thing that really takes up space are the soles.
u/Gingerstrands (r/onebag)
You Might Also Like
Essential
The Ultimate Minimalist Shoe for Featherlight, Flat-Packing Travel Freedom.
8.8
The Nike Free RN 5.0 (especially the popular 2018 Flyknit version) is a minimalist traveler's dream come true, offering unparalleled packability – it genuinely squashes almost completely flat – and an incredibly lightweight design. During my Lisbon city test, its flexible knit upper and deeply grooved sole provided a liberating "barefoot-like" experience, promoting natural foot movement, and it performed well in the 75°F spring weather for shorter walks and light jogs.
While its minimal cushioning means it isn't suited for all-day, high-impact walking on hard surfaces for most people, it excels as an ultra-packable option for light exercise, as a comfortable travel day companion (especially for flights), or as a secondary pair that adds almost no weight or bulk to your bag. For those who prioritize space-saving design and a natural underfoot feel above all else, the Nike Free RN 5.0 remains a proven and highly-regarded travel shoe.
SHOP NOW
Nike Free RN 5.0
$149
✓
Nike's standard 60-day return policy if unworn; 2-year manufacturing defect warranty.
✓
Flexible & Packable Design allows it to fit in the smallest of bag spaces, even a side pocket.
✓
Breathable Knit Upper is ideal for warmer climates and keeping feet cool.
SHOP NOW
We may earn a commission when you purchase through our links, at no additional cost to you.
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
About The Author
Shaun
Travel Gear Editor
Shaun's recommendations stem from direct experience traveling 24 countries and living across 4 continents (currently based in Canada after years in the UK and Australia). Witnessing the gap between marketing claims and actual performance, he created this platform dedicated to unbiased, experience-driven gear reviews you can trust, free from paid promotions.
"From UK cobblestones to Aussie beaches and Canadian winters – living across continents teaches you what travel gear really needs to endure. That's the standard here."
📍
🇨🇦
Currently Based
🏠
🇬🇧
Hometown Country
🕒
7+
Years Travelling
🌎
25+
Countries Visited