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Nike’s King of Cushioning Gets Increased Stack Height and Energy Return with the Vomero Plus

Nike Vomero Plus 0 Hero
Photo: Nike

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If Nike is deeply rooted in anything, it’s running shoes. Aiming to revolutionize the category in the ‘70s with its Cortez model and waffle soles, the athletic giant has continued to evolve its repertoire with the likes of the Pegasus, born in the ‘80s to be everyman’s runner, and eventually their Vomero, designed to be the “Cadillac of running shoes” with max cushioning when it premiered in 2006. Recently, Nike had an idea to better delineate between its different models with Icon, Plus, and Premium tiers to make selecting your next shoe even simpler. And for athletes who want the Vomero’s famed cushioning without the whopping 55mm stack height of the Premium, the Vomero Plus is the perfect choice.

Nike Vomero Plus 1
Photo: Nike

Considered by many as the King of Cushioning, the Vomero line continues to be arguably the most comfortable road runner around. Taking everything they learned from the Invincible 3, Nike has seemed to balance support with cushioning. It starts with the massive 45mm stack height and the full-length ZoomX midsole, which is the same ultralight foam found in the brand’s racing shoes, boasting about 85% energy return — their highest available. According to Nike, this is the most responsive foam in the industry. However, the wider platform and increased rocker geometry helps you with stability, unlike other mega-cushioned runners you’ll find on the market.

Nike Vomero Plus 2
Photo: Nike

Currently available in 7 colorways, including the Orange Pulse variant you see here, an engineered mesh yarn upper surrounds the top of your foot for breathability and soft, stretchy comfort, yet keeps your foot in place when pounding the pavement. Likewise, the collar and tongue padding has been upgraded to further enhance the experience. Meanwhile, webbed lace loops help you fine-tune your fit.

Underfoot, you’ll benefit from the high-abrasion rubber outsole that gives you superb traction on the asphalt. With reflective detailing for safer low-light running, the Vomero Plus only weighs around 9.6oz (men’s U.S. size 10) and features a 10mm heel drop to better propel you forward.

Nike Vomero Plus 3
Photo: Nike

Priced at $170, the Vomero Plus is now available from Nike’s website.