The Nike Vomero has always played the role of the comfort specialist in Nike’s lineup, built for runners who want soft landings, smooth transitions, and a ride that feels easy on tired legs. It’s the shoe you reach for when you want cushioning you can trust and a rhythm that lets you settle in without thinking too much about pace. For runners who value protection and relaxation over speed, the Vomero series has long delivered a reliably plush, forgiving experience.
The new Nike Vomero Plus takes that identity and elevates it. While the Vomero 18 used a blend of ZoomX and ReactX to balance bounce with stability, the Vomero Plus goes all-in with full-length ZoomX. That shift transforms the ride, making it softer, springier, and noticeably more energetic underfoot. It still feels controlled, but the cushioning now has a luxurious, lively quality that makes easy runs and recovery days feel smoother and more enjoyable.
This isn’t a shoe built for chasing PRs or hammering tempo sessions. Instead, it’s designed for runners who want comfort without compromise, a shoe that makes everyday miles feel effortless and relaxed. If your ideal run is one where your legs cruise on autopilot and your mind drifts, the Vomero Plus fits perfectly into that routine, offering a soft, enjoyable ride you’ll keep reaching for.
Table of Contents
- Design & Fit
- Midsole & Cushioning
- Outsole & Traction
- Performance on the Run
- Quick Specs + Infographic
- Pros & Cons
- Who Should Buy the Nike Vomero Plus
- Final Verdict
- Nike Vomero Plus FAQs
Design & Fit
Slip into the Nike Vomero Plus, and the step-in comfort immediately stands out. The engineered mesh upper feels soft and premium, offering breathability without sacrificing structure. Padding around the collar and tongue is generous, creating a cushioned wrap that holds the foot securely without any pressure points. The interior lining adds to that comfort, giving the shoe a smooth, plush feel that makes it easy to settle into from the very first run.
Compared to the Vomero 18, the materials feel noticeably upgraded, more refined and more comfortable, with a fit that balances support and relaxation. Lockdown is reliable, even though the shoe leans into max-cushion territory, and the toe box offers enough room without feeling loose. True-to-size fit means no surprises: just lace up, settle in, and enjoy a ride designed for comfort at any distance.
Midsole & Cushioning
The Nike Vomero Plus moves away from the dual-foam setup of the Vomero 18 and fully commits to a full-length ZoomX midsole, Nike’s softest, lightest, and most energetic cushioning. The difference is immediate. The ride feels softer, springier, and noticeably more fun underfoot, giving each step a smooth, buoyant feel that works especially well on easy or steady-paced runs. Without the firmer ReactX layer, the shoe leans more neutral and focuses entirely on comfort rather than structure. The ZoomX foam now feels more stable, though.
Compared to the Vomero 18, which offered more ground feel and a touch more stability, the Vomero Plus is clearly the more cushioned and forgiving option over longer distances. It’s a great match for neutral runners who want plush daily comfort, easy transitions, and a ride that keeps legs feeling fresh through weekend miles and back-to-back training days. Just keep in mind that this isn’t a stability shoe. It prioritizes softness and bounce, not corrective support.
Outsole & Traction
Flip the Nike Vomero Plus over, and the outsole tells you immediately that this shoe is built for steady, everyday use. Nike gives it generous rubber coverage across almost the entire bottom, offering protection and durability without adding unnecessary weight. While the rubber is slightly thinner than what you’ll see on the Vomero 18, it still holds up well thanks to Nike’s reputation for long-lasting outsole compounds. The result is a dependable platform that balances grip, flexibility, and longevity.
On the run, the traction feels secure across pavement, treadmill belts, and even lightly graveled paths. Wet sidewalks and post-rain routes aren’t a problem. The outsole maintains its footing without feeling sticky or overly firm. Combined with the plush ZoomX midsole above it, the Vomero Plus delivers a smooth, cushioned ride that feels easy and predictable from the first mile to the last. It’s the kind of outsole that doesn’t call attention to itself, yet quietly reinforces why this shoe becomes a go-to for daily training.
Performance on the Run
The Nike Vomero Plus embraces its role as a comfort-focused daily trainer, designed for easy runs, long miles, and recovery days when your priority is feeling good, not feeling fast. While speed isn’t its specialty, the shoe doesn’t fall apart when you decide to pick things up a bit. The full-length ZoomX midsole gives it noticeably better energy return than the Vomero 18, adding a light, springy feel underfoot that helps take some of the load off tired legs during everyday training.
That said, the Vomero Plus is not a race-oriented shoe and won’t deliver the snappy responsiveness needed for aggressive tempo sessions or speed workouts. You can run faster in it, but the propulsion will come from your effort, not from the shoe itself. Once you settle into a comfortable rhythm, though, the ride feels smooth, balanced, and more lively than you’d expect from such a well-cushioned trainer. It’s the kind of reliable companion that won’t push the pace for you, but it will stay steady, supportive, and comfortable mile after mile.
Quick Specs + Infographic
- Weight: 8.5 oz women / 10.3 oz men
- Stack height: 45/35 mm
- Heel-to-toe drop: 10 mm
- Midsole: Full-length ZoomX
- Outsole: High-abrasion rubber
- Category: Maximalist Running Shoe
- Price: $180
Pros & Cons
Here’s a clear, runner-friendly breakdown of the pros and cons of the Nike Vomero Plus, giving you a quick sense of where this luxury trainer shines, and where it may fall short depending on your needs.
Pros
- Full-length ZoomX midsole delivers a softer, bouncier, and more energetic ride than the Vomero 18.
- Outstanding step-in comfort thanks to a plush upper, padded tongue and collar, and smooth interior lining.
- Smooth, easy transitions supported by the cushioned platform and natural rocker feel.
- Great for daily runs, long miles, and recovery days, offering a gentle, leg-saving ride.
- Breathable, premium engineered mesh upper with a secure, well-balanced lockdown.
- Solid traction and coverage across pavement, treadmill belts, and light gravel.
- Ideal for neutral runners who want max comfort without the stiffness of stability shoes.
Cons
- Not built for speed, feeling too soft and relaxed for tempo runs, intervals, or race-day efforts.
- Less stable than the Vomero 18, especially for runners who prefer a firmer or more structured ride.
- Thinner outsole rubber may concern high-mileage runners, even though Nike rubber tends to be durable.
- High stack height reduces ground feel, which may not appeal to runners who want more connection with the road.
- Premium ZoomX cushioning comes with a premium price tag.
Who Should Buy the Nike Vomero Plus
Who Should Buy the Nike Vomero Plus
- Runners prioritizing comfort over speed. If you value plush cushioning, soft landings, and a smooth ride, especially on easy runs, recovery days, or casual jogs, the Vomero Plus shines.
- Daily runners and high-mileage runners seeking a forgiving ride. The full-length ZoomX foam and cushioned transitions reduce impact over repeated miles, making it ideal for consistent training or long weekend runs.
- Walkers and people on their feet a lot. Its soft ride, stable build, and secure fit make the Vomero Plus a great choice for long walks, commuting, or days when you spend hours standing.
- Neutral runners who like a cushioned, unstructured feel. With no aggressive stability elements, the shoe suits runners who don’t need motion control but appreciate a smooth, balanced ride.
- Runners needing joint protection or handling minor aches. The plush cushioning and smooth transitions can help reduce stress on knees, hips, and ankles, especially useful for older runners or those prone to impact-related discomfort.
Who Shouldn’t Buy the Nike Vomero Plus
- Speed-focused runners and racers. The Vomero Plus is too plush and heavy for tempo runs, intervals, or race-day efforts, you’ll likely feel the lack of responsiveness.
- Fans of lightweight, minimal shoes or ground feel. If you prefer a low-profile, connected-to-the-ground ride, the Vomero Plus will feel bulky and overly cushioned.
- Runners needing structured stability or motion control. Since the shoe leans neutral, it won’t provide the corrective support needed for moderate to severe overpronation or complex gait issues.
- Those chasing the fastest possible turnover or aggressive pacing. For workouts demanding snappy responsiveness or explosive speed, this isn’t the right tool; you’ll need something lighter and more reactive.
- Runners who prioritize durability above all. While the outsole is well-covered, the thinner rubber and soft foam could wear faster than firmer, performance-oriented trainers under heavy mileage or mixed terrain.
Final Verdict
The Nike Vomero Plus earns its place as a go-to comfort runner’s shoe. The full-length ZoomX midsole delivers a soft, springy ride that soaks up impact and keeps your legs fresh mile after mile. Paired with a plush upper, secure lockdown, and smooth transitions, it excels on easy runs, recovery jogs, and long-distance miles or even just long days on your feet. If you’re prioritizing joint protection, cushioning, and a relaxed running or walking experience, this shoe consistently delivers.
That said, the Vomero Plus isn’t built for speed. The generous cushioning and higher stack make it feel heavy and sluggish during tempo runs, intervals, or any workouts where quick responsiveness matters. If your priority is performance, ground feel, or sharp turnover, you’d be better served by a lighter, more performance-oriented trainer.
Nike Vomero Plus FAQs
Here are the most common questions runners ask about the Nike Vomero Plus, along with clear, helpful answers to guide your decision.
Is the Nike Vomero Plus good for beginners?
Yes. Its soft cushioning, smooth transitions, and forgiving ride make it beginner-friendly, especially for runners who want comfort over speed.
Can I use the Vomero Plus for speed work?
You can, but it’s not ideal. The shoe is too plush and relaxed for tempo runs, intervals, or racing. It’s built for easy to steady pacing.
How does the Vomero Plus compare to the Vomero 18?
The Vomero Plus is softer and bouncier thanks to full-length ZoomX. The Vomero 18 offers more stability and ground feel with its dual-foam setup.
Is the Vomero Plus good for walking?
Absolutely. The soft ZoomX cushioning and stable base make it a great option for long walks or days on your feet.
Does the Vomero Plus fit true to size?
Yes. Most runners find their usual size works well, with a comfortable toe box and secure midfoot lockdown.
Is this shoe good for runners with knee or hip pain?
Yes. The cushioning and smooth transitions can help reduce impact and ease strain on the joints during easy runs and recovery miles.
Does it work for overpronators?
Mild overpronators may get away with it, but this is a neutral shoe. Runners needing structured stability or motion control should look elsewhere.
How durable is the outsole?
Despite being thinner than the Vomero 18’s, Nike’s rubber compounds are durable. Expect solid lifespan for road use and daily training.
What surfaces does it work best on?
Roads, sidewalks, treadmill belts, and light gravel. It’s not intended for trails or technical terrain.
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