Is the Nike Vomero Premium the Softest Shoe Ever Made?
This review dives into the new Nike Vomero Premium, a shoe that promises ultimate comfort with its max cushioning. We'll explore its design, feel, and whether its extreme softness is a good thing or too much of a good thing.
A New Era of Max Cushioning
Nike has restructured its running shoe lineup, focusing on a "good, better, best" approach across categories like Pegasus (everyday trainers), Structure (stability), and Vomero (max cushion). The Vomero line now features the Vomero 18 as the standard option, the Vomero Plus with full ZoomX foam, and the top-tier Vomero Premium, which boasts full-length ZoomX and two Air Zoom units.
Key Takeaways
- The Nike Vomero Premium is exceptionally soft, potentially the softest shoe tested.
- It features a high stack height with full-length ZoomX foam and Air Zoom units.
- The upper is made of a thin, padded engineered mesh, offering a plush feel.
- Design elements include nods to the Nike Air More Uptempo.
- The shoe is wide-fitting and true to size, but might feel unstable for some due to its extreme softness and stack height.
- It's priced at $230, positioning it as a premium offering.
First Impressions: Unbelievably Soft
The Vomero Premium is immediately noticeable for its softness. It uses a full-length ZoomX midsole, complemented by two large Air Zoom units in the heel and forefoot. This combination creates a sensation that's often described as pillowy or trampoline-like. The upper is also incredibly plush, with significant padding around the collar and tongue, wrapped in a thin, semi-translucent engineered mesh. While this mesh is breathable, the overall padding can make the shoe feel warm on hot days.
Design and Details
Aesthetically, the Vomero Premium stands out. The design incorporates subtle but cool details, such as the "AIR" text on the medial side, inspired by the classic Nike Air More Uptempo. This is a neat Easter egg for sneaker enthusiasts. The midsole itself is remarkably thick, with a 55.5mm stack height in the heel and 45.5mm in the forefoot, giving it a 10mm drop. This substantial cushioning is visually striking and contributes to the shoe's unique profile. A notable detail on the heel clip reads "not approved by World Athletics," adding an unusual touch.
The outsole features a durable-looking rubber waffle pattern that provides decent traction in both wet and dry conditions. The outsole also highlights the shoe's impressive stack heights and includes cutouts to expose the Air Zoom units.
Fit and Feel: The Softness Dilemma
When it comes to fit, the Vomero Premium is generally true to size but runs wide. This makes it a good option for those with wider feet. However, for narrower feet, there might be a bit too much room in the toe box, potentially leading to the need to retighten laces during a run, as some users have reported. The shoe's immense softness is its defining characteristic. While incredibly comfortable for casual wear and recovery, the extreme cushioning can lead to a feeling of instability. It requires more core engagement to maintain balance, making it feel less like a stable running platform and more like balancing on a soft marshmallow.
Performance and Comfort
For those who love maximum cushioning, the Vomero Premium delivers in spades. It offers a unique, almost weightless sensation, aiming to mimic an anti-gravity treadmill. The Air Zoom units add a responsive bounce to the otherwise very soft ZoomX foam, creating a propulsive feel. While it doesn't have a carbon plate like racing shoes, it does provide a smooth and effortless ride. However, the instability is a significant factor. It's not unsafe, but it does make your body work harder to stay stable, which might not be ideal for everyone, especially for longer runs or if you prefer a more grounded feel.
Conclusion: A Premium, But Potentially Too Soft, Experience
The Nike Vomero Premium is undoubtedly a premium shoe, packed with Nike's latest cushioning technology. It's incredibly soft, perhaps the softest shoe available. For casual wear and recovery, it's a dream. However, its extreme softness and high stack height might make it feel unstable for some runners. It's a shoe that pushes the boundaries of cushioning, and whether that's a good thing depends on your personal preference and how you plan to use it. It's a bold statement from Nike, offering a unique experience for those seeking the ultimate plush ride.
