Diadora, the renowned Italian sportswear brand, has been making significant strides in the running shoe market. Diadora Nucleo 2 builds upon the foundation set by its predecessor, aiming to provide runners with a blend of comfort, stability, and performance. The original Nucleo was celebrated for its cushioning and neutral support, making it a favorite among daily runners. With the Nucleo 2, Diadora introduces several enhancements to elevate the running experience further — a shoe designed for those who understand the journey and respect the distance.
If you’re exploring Diadora’s lineup, you might also want to check out the Diadora Cellula, another great option for runners seeking plush comfort, or the Diadora Gara Carbon 2 for those craving race-day speed.
Key specifications:
Model: Nucleo 2
Weight: 9.8 oz. (280 g) for US 9 model
Heel: 35 mm
Toe: 30 mm
Heel drop: 5 mm
Price of Diadora Nucleo 2
Price: $165 USD
What’s New in the Nucleo 2?
The Nucleo 2 has been entirely re-engineered to significantly enhance overall support while preserving the qualities that made it an essential neutral running shoe for long, fluid runs. It’s lightweight, responsive, and built for high mileage — the ultimate tool for runners who believe the work itself is the point.
Key upgrades include:
- Asymmetrical Midsole Design: The design team introduced two external excavated areas and a flattened internal construction to improve stability and control rotation. The less concave inner area, stretching from the heel to the medial side, enhances balance without adding bulk.
- Anima Midsole: The Nucleo 2 features Diadora’s proprietary DD Anima foam, now with 30% more responsiveness and 20% less weight than before. This upgrade ensures a smooth, energetic ride that effortlessly propels you forward.
- Refined Fit & Tongue Design: The upper tongue has been redesigned and secured laterally with elastic mesh integrated into the lining, preventing twisting and ensuring a snug fit without sacrificing flexibility.
- Widened Platform: The heel is now 9mm wider, the midfoot 13mm wider, and the forefoot 5mm wider. This expanded base, combined with an increased medial outsole length (from 6 cm to 11 cm), provides a stable, secure ride.
For runners who like to mix up their rotation, the Diadora Frequenza could be a perfect complement — ideal for recovery runs or days when you want a softer, more forgiving ride.
Upper
The Nucleo 2 features a Nylon Air Mesh and microfiber upper, striking the perfect balance between breathability and structure. The engineered mesh keeps your feet cool, while the enhanced heel counter adds rock-solid support. The newly padded tongue, now locked in with elastic mesh, eliminates annoying twists and enhances midfoot lockdown. While the toe box is slightly narrow, the soft mesh offers a bit of stretch, making room for different foot shapes.
Midsole
The heart of the Nucleo 2 lies in its revamped DD Anima midsole. It delivers a lively bounce, making every step feel more energetic without being overly plush. The added responsiveness — a full 30% increase — makes a noticeable difference, especially on longer runs when you need that extra push. The low 5mm drop encourages a natural stride, perfect for daily training and long-haul miles.
Outsole
The outsole is built with Duratech 5000 rubber, a durable compound designed to withstand heavy mileage while providing excellent traction. Whether you’re logging miles on asphalt, packed dirt, or even light trails, the Nucleo 2’s outsole grips well and offers enough protection to keep your legs feeling fresh.
Who Is This Shoe For?
The Diadora Nucleo 2 is a versatile daily trainer that caters to runners of all levels. Whether you’re a beginner building your base or a seasoned marathoner chasing high mileage, this shoe offers a blend of comfort, responsiveness, and stability. The widened platform and improved midsole geometry make it an excellent option for runners who crave a balanced, secure ride without the bulk of a traditional stability shoe.
Pros
✅ Built-in stability without feeling bulky
✅ Durable outsole for high-mileage durability
Cons
❌ Price point could be more competitive
Verdict
The Diadora Nucleo 2 is more than just a shoe — it’s a training partner designed to carry you through the grind of daily miles and the satisfaction of crossing finish lines. It’s lightweight, stable, and responsive, making it a standout option for runners who value both comfort and performance. Whether you’re logging long, slow miles or picking up the pace for a tempo run, the Nucleo 2 is ready to support your journey, reminding you that every extra mile makes a difference.
If you’re looking for a reliable, well-crafted daily trainer that balances modern upgrades with timeless running essentials, the Nucleo 2 deserves a spot in your rotation. And if you’re curious about what else Diadora has to offer, the Gara Carbon 2 is worth checking out for your race day, while the Frequenza shines for tempo runs.
