Nike Vaporfly NEXT%
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PRODUCT HIGHLIGHTS
- Nike claims that this is their fastest running shoe to date
- Features a full-length carbon fiber plate that runs along the underfoot providing a energy designed to propel you forward and faster
- Combines the Nike ZoomX foam, a high-level of cushioning and responsive foam, and the VaporWeave material which is strong, lightweight, and water-resistant
- The outsole is made with a hard rubber under the heel with a softer blown rubber under the forefoot
Pros & Cons
What We Like...
- Carbon fiber plate
- Cushioning provides high cushion-to-weight ratio
- Best suited for long distances
- Breathable upper mesh
- Water resistant
What Needs Improvement...
- Users felt heel lacked lateral and medial support at slow speeds
- Narrow fit may not be for everyone
Product Summary
Nike makes some lofty claims with the Nike Vaporfly NEXT% promising to be the fastest shoe you have ever seen or used. Featuring a full-length carbon fiber plate that runs underfoot, the Vaporfly NEXT% is designed to propel you forward with each stride. With each footstrike, the carbon plate stays fixed under the forefoot but the rear portion of the plate bends under your bodyweight, which then springs back as the foot transitions forward.
This is made possible because of the Nike ZoomX foam, which not only allows the carbon plate to flex in the heel but also delivers the energy return for the propulsive sensation that helps you move faster. Additionally, the foam delivers a high level of cushion without adding weight. Nike Vaporfly NEXT% also features Nike’s signature Vaporweave material which is strong, lightweight, and water-resistant.
The shoe is engineered to support long-distance running. There are a few users who felt the heel lacked lateral and medial support at slower speeds but these are not designed to be stability shoes. Additionally, the Vaporweave material fits rather snugly and contributes to an overall feeling of narrowness on the shoe.
Specs
| Heel-to-toe drop | Not noted |
|---|---|
| Outsole | Hard rubber under heel\, soft blown rubber under forefoot |
| Features | Nike ZoomX foam\, internal carbon plate\, water-resistant Vaporweave material |
Summary
The Nike Vaporfly NEXT% features a carbon plate underfoot designed to propel the foot forward which, Nike claims, will enable you to run faster.
