One of Nike’s tried and true pairs, the chunky Vomero returns with a new dual density midsole and a significant increase in stack height. Do these big updates elevate this beast of a shoe to another level? Or is the Vomero just another max cushion shoe indistinguishable from the countless others? Find out, in this Nike Vomero 18 review.
Intro
I should preface this review by stating that the sleek, carbon-fiber-plated Vaporfly is the only Nike shoe I had ever run in. And so I will: The sleek carbon-fiber-plated Vaporfly is the only Nike shoe I had ever run in. Therefore I didn’t know what to expect before lacing up the bulky, non-carbon-fiber-plated Vomero. But one thing worried me: the weight. We all know shoe size matters (in both the streets and sheets), but what about shoe weight? Yes, of course it matters—don’t be a moron. And yet, the Vomero 18’s heavy weight doesn’t feel so weighty on the run, thanks to the excellent midsole.
Nike Vomero 18 Review
| STACK HEIGHT | WEIGHT | PRICE |
|---|---|---|
| 46/36 mm (10 mm drop) | M10: 11.5 oz/325 g W8: 9.3 oz/263 g | $155 |
Midsole
While the Vomero would never be mistaken for the Vaporfly, the beefy trainer does possess the same foam as the super shoe, even if it may be a different variation. The Vomero gets a newly stacked dual-density midsole with premium ZoomX (found in the Vaporfly) on top of ReactX foam, amplifying cushioned comfort.
Made from Pebax, ZoomX is one of the liveliest foams around, and it greatly helps offset the Vomero’s heavy weight. Additionally, Nike claims ReactX is 13% more responsive than its previous React technology. “Softy” runners like me will appreciate this midsole is apparently 18% softer than the now obsolete (and hideous) Vomero 17. Question: Is it actually 18 percent softer, or did Nike just crap that number out of their behind to match the 18th edition of the shoe?
I’ll say it again: more brands ought to experiment with incorporating multiple foams in a shoe. Dual density foams tend to give a more dynamic, exciting ride. And that’s exactly what this midsole delivers.
Nike added a prominent 6 millimeters to both the forefoot and heel, with the Vomero now boasting an even more massive stack height of 46 mm/36 mm. For comparison, the Vaporfly 4 sits at 35/29 mm and Nike’s Pegasus 41 trainer has a 37/27 mm stack height. How the Pegasus has exceeded the Vaporfly in the heel is one of the greatest unsolved running shoe mysteries.
Ride
While a shoe of this nature is best suited for recovery day, I don’t hesitate to use it as a daily trainer. Packing a tremendously soft and cushioned feel, the Vomero 18 can eat up miles in comfort. But it’s not a mushy slog of a ride like some max-stacked shoes; the Vomero has decent energy return thanks to the aforementioned ZoomX foam.
Despite its bonkers 46/36 mm stack height, the shoe offers quite the stable ride for a neutral shoe. Naturally, the 10 mm drop works best for heel strikers, and the increased rocker geometry aids in an easier heel-to-toe transition.
The Vomero is a great option for tired legs and for the times when you want your pair to do a lot of the work on the run. It’s one of the comfiest running experiences I’ve had this year and a shoe I keep coming back to. It reminds me a bit of the ASICS Gel-Nimbus 27, but the Vomero is much more responsive.
Upper
Unsurprisingly, this is not a minimal upper like the one found on the Vaporfly. The dense upper is not very breathable, either. Yet, the engineered mesh is a real winner, providing an extremely high level of comfort and a snug fit. My feet feel pampered with the plush lining and crazy “thiccc” (three c’s!) tongue that’d put Spiderman villain Venom to shame. Nerd!
Seriously, this is one of the most colossal tongues in recent memory and I’m sure some wish it weren’t so padded. I do think the upper could be stripped down a bit to shed some weight and enhance breathability, but the Vomero isn’t meant to be a speedster—Nike already has plenty of fast, light pairs in its lineup. Also, if an overly padded tongue is your biggest problem with a shoe, then, just stop running. Perhaps you could pick up pickleball? Everyone and their mother, grandmother, and great grandmother seem to love that sport. (Is it considered a sport?)
Outsole
Nike says the shoe’s redesigned traction pattern—namely, pods placed around the outsole—helps enhance agility and creates smooth heel-to-toe transitions. While I’m not sure if such a minute component like traction deserves that much credit for agility, I do agree it’s a smooth underfoot experience.
There’s no visible damage after 60 miles, and I expect above average durability from this pair. With a great amount of outsole rubber, it’s certainly designed to last longer than a super shoe like the Vaporfly.
Weight
Remember when I said shoe weight matters? Well, the Vomero 18 may just be the exception. It’s the first shoe in the history of my two decades in the sport whose heavy weight hasn’t negatively impacted my experience running in it. On foot, it truly doesn’t feel as hefty as its listed weight (11.5 oz/325 g for M10 and 9.3 oz/263 g for W8) and the great balance of comfort and responsiveness elevate the shoe over other max cushioned pairs.
Price
You could do far worse than $155 for a max cushioned pair like the Vomero 18. Shoes with this much cushioning (not to mention the premium ZoomX foam) typically range from $160-$170. By that reasoning, the Vomero is slightly underpriced. Then again, there’s no reason for shoes to sell at these current price points. Yes, all running shoes are overpriced.
Aesthetics
This is one nice-looking shoe! I rarely get compliments on the gargantuan, sweat-drenched pairs tied to my stinky-as-hell, oversized feet, but my ego received a huge boost thanks to the White/Electric Green/Volt/Black colorway. Honestly, it’d be hard to go wrong with any of the 13 colorways available. Except for Black/Dark Smoke Grey/Light Smoke Grey/Black. Definitely don’t choose Black/Dark Smoke Grey/Light Smoke Grey/Black— unless, of course, you’re a server at a shitty restaurant like Outback Steakhouse. Thank you to Outback Steakhouse for sponsoring this Nike Vomero 18 review.
Conclusion
Bigger, better, and bolder—well, not really bolder—the Vomero 18 is one of my favorite max cushion pairs. It’s perfect for those runs when I want to go on autopilot as I enjoy the immense comfort of the dreamy upper and stacked, soft midsole. Decently priced and visually appealing, it’s hard to think of a better recovery day pair that can also pick up the pace when desired. While it’s undoubtedly on the heavier side, you always feel lighter when landing on ZoomX foam.
The Vomero 18 is available on the Nike website or pretty much anywhere.
Nike graciously provided this shoe to me for wear testing. I was not compensated for this Nike Vomero 18 review and Nike did not get an opportunity to see this review before I published.
