The Nike Vomero Plus vs Nike Invincible 3 matchup brings two of Nike’s top max-cushion trainers head-to-head, and while they share some DNA, they deliver different ride experiences. Both shoes use ZoomX foam, but the older ZoomX formula in the Invincible 3 leans super bouncy and a bit unpredictable, while the new ZoomX blend in the Vomero Plus feels more refined, controlled, and smoother underfoot. It’s a shift that makes the Vomero Plus feel easier to run in right away, especially on longer, slower miles.
Surprisingly, structural stability tells a different story. Even though the Vomero Plus has the more stable foam, the Invincible 3 has the more stable overall build. Its wider base and sculpted sidewalls keep you centered, offering rare support for supinators, something most neutral trainers can’t provide. The Vomero Plus counters with a lighter feel (17 grams lighter) and a more modern, streamlined ride, but without the same corrective bite.
In this Nike Vomero Plus vs Nike Invincible 3 comparison, we’ll break down comfort, cushioning, performance, and long-term value to help you decide whether to upgrade to the Vomero Plus, the official replacement for the Invincible 3, or stick with Nike’s bounciest daily trainer.
Table of Contents
- Quick Specs Comparison
- Comfort & Fit
- Cushioning & Ride Experience
- Stability & Support
- Outsole & Durability
- Performance: Daily Training, Long Runs, and Recovery
- Who Should Buy Each Shoe
- Which One Is Better? (Final Verdict)
- Nike Vomero Plus vs Nike Invincible 3 FAQs
Quick Specs Comparison
| Spec | Nike Vomero Plus | Nike Invincible 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Midsole Foam | Full-length ZoomX | Full-length ZoomX |
| Heel Stack Height | 45 mm | 40 mm |
| Forefoot Stack Height* | 35 mm | 31 mm |
| Heel-to-Toe Drop | 10 mm | 9 mm |
| Weight (Men’s ~US 9) | 292 g | 309 |
| Shoe Type / Intended Use | Max-cushion daily trainer / long-run & recovery miles | Max-cushion daily trainer / long-run, easy & steady runs |
One-line takeaways:
- Vomero Plus comes in lighter (17 g lighter) with a slightly taller stack, pushing cushioning upward and offering a slightly higher build.
- Both use full ZoomX midsoles but drop and foam layout are similar enough that ride differences will come primarily from geometry, foam tuning, and outsole/upper design.
Infographics: Nike Vomero Plus vs Nike Invincible 3
The Vomero Plus comes in 17 grams lighter and uses a more refined, controlled version of ZoomX foam. It also sits noticeably taller, with about 5 mm more stack height than the Invincible 3.
Comfort & Fit
Nike Vomero Plus
The Nike Vomero Plus nails comfort right out of the box. The fit runs true to size with just enough room in the toe box to let your toes splay naturally without feeling sloppy. The engineered mesh upper strikes a nice balance between breathability and structure. It keeps air flowing on warm days but still feels plush and supportive where it matters. Slip it on and you get an instant “ahh” moment thanks to the soft padding around the tongue and collar, making it a shoe you can wear for hours without thinking about it.
Lockdown is equally impressive. The heel and midfoot wrap securely without any hot spots or pressure points, giving you a confident fit whether you’re jogging easy miles or cruising through long runs. That step-in comfort carries through every stride, making the Vomero Plus one of those rare max-cushion shoes that feels luxurious without being overly soft or unstable. If you want a daily trainer that fits naturally, breathes well, and keeps your feet happy all day, the Vomero Plus delivers.
Nike Invincible 3
The Nike Invincible 3 leans into comfort with an evolved Flyknit upper that feels both breathable and supportive the moment you lace it up. The knit adapts naturally to the shape of your foot, giving you a personalized wrap without feeling stretchy or loose. It locks down well through the midfoot and heel, keeping you centered even as the ZoomX foam below delivers its signature bounce. Step-in comfort is soft and welcoming, making the shoe easy to live in for easy runs, long runs, or long days on your feet.
Underfoot, the PEBA-based ZoomX midsole provides maximum energy return and excellent impact dispersion. Every stride feels lively, cushioned, and effortless. And while the Vomero Plus has a broader platform, the overall structure of the Invincible 3 is surprisingly more stable. The sculpted sidewalls and geometry do a better job of holding the foot in place, giving you that extra bit of confidence if you tend to wobble or supinate. If you want big cushioning with a secure feel and a knit upper that hugs just right, the Invincible 3 makes a strong case.
Cushioning & Ride Experience
Nike Vomero Plus Cushioning
The Nike Vomero Plus delivers a full-length ZoomX midsole that feels like a meaningful step forward from the Vomero 18. You still get that classic ZoomX energy return, but now with a smoother, more refined feel underfoot. It’s not as wildly bouncy as the Invincible 3, yet it still gives you that soft, springy lift that makes every stride feel a little more joyful. The cushioning lands in a sweet spot—plush enough to keep your legs fresh, but controlled enough that it never feels unstable or wobbly.
Over longer distances, the midsole really shines. It’s noticeably cushier and more forgiving than the Vomero 18, absorbing impact without the mushiness some max-cushion foams can develop. While it doesn’t offer the same stability as the Invincible 3, that’s actually a plus for neutral runners who don’t need any forced guidance or correction. The result is an easygoing, comfortable ride that’s ideal for easy runs, long runs, and those slow recovery days when you want maximum comfort with a smooth, predictable feel.
Nike Invincible 3 Cushioning
The Nike Invincible 3 delivers the most classic ZoomX experience you can get in a daily trainer—soft, bouncy, and almost trampoline-like underfoot. Every step feels loaded with energy return, giving the ride a lively, surging feel that makes easy runs feel effortless and short pickups feel surprisingly fun. But that same springy nature also comes with a trade-off: the ride can feel unstable for some runners, especially if you land unevenly or tend to wobble through the midfoot. It’s a cushioning setup that rewards smooth mechanics but isn’t shy about showing its quirks.
Where the Invincible 3 excels is in pure comfort and high-energy cushioning. Long, slow miles feel light and protected, and the foam keeps your legs fresher than most traditional midsoles. However, where it struggles is control—sharp turns, uneven surfaces, and late-run fatigue can highlight its inherent instability. For runners who love soft, bouncy cushioning and want maximum energy return, the Invincible 3 hits that niche beautifully. For those who prefer a more grounded, predictable ride, it can feel a bit wild.
Direct Comparison: Nike Vomero Plus vs Nike Invincible 3
If you’re chasing sheer softness underfoot, the Nike Invincible 3 wins hands-down. Its ZoomX midsole delivers that unmistakable pillowy, trampoline-like bounce that makes walking or easy runs feel effortlessly cushioned. The ride has a lively spring that feels almost indulgent, perfect for when you want maximum comfort and energy return with every step. Its structure design also gives the Invincible 3 a slight edge in stability over rough terrain or wobble-prone runs, surprisingly keeping you centered even when your stride is off.
When it comes to daily mileage and overall versatility, the Nike Vomero Plus is the smarter all-rounder. Its more refined ZoomX foam strikes a balance between softness and control, so the cushioning stays consistent even after long weeks of running or walking. That makes Vomero Plus better suited for mixed usage—easy runs, long runs, recovery days, and everyday wear. Because of its lighter weight and more resilient foam, it adapts more reliably across different distances and paces. In short: Invincible 3 is the go-to for plush cushioning and lively bounce, but Vomero Plus is the dependable workhorse you’ll trust for most of your miles.
Direct Comparison Infographics: Nike Vomero Plus vs Nike Invincible 3
The Nike Invincible 3 is softer and more stable, while the Nike Vomero Plus is more versatile and handles daily mileage better
Stability & Support
The Nike Invincible 3 takes the lead when it comes to overall stability and support. Its supportive Flyknit upper, sculpted sidewalls, and steady midsole geometry do a great job of keeping the foot centered, even with the earlier, bouncier ZoomX formula underneath. That bounce can feel unpredictable at times, but the shoe’s structure compensates well, offering a level of guidance that works for neutral runners and even mild overpronators. It’s the rare max-cushion ZoomX shoe that feels soft yet secure, especially on straight-line efforts and long, easy miles.
The Nike Vomero Plus, meanwhile, steps in with a more refined, more stable version of ZoomX than what’s used in the Invincible 3. The base is broader, the rocker geometry is smoother, and the sidewalls are more pronounced—all elements that typically add stability. But despite these enhancements, the overall structure of the Vomero Plus is still less stable than the Invincible 3 because it’s intentionally tuned for neutral runners who want softness and smoothness without corrective mechanics. If you land efficiently and prefer a controlled, predictable ride, the Vomero Plus fits the bill. If you need a touch more guidance or tend to wobble, the Invincible 3 remains the steadier choice.
Outsole & Durability
Vomero Plus
The Nike Vomero Plus comes with a generously rubberized outsole that covers almost the entire bottom of the shoe, giving you confident grip and steady traction on most road surfaces. While the rubber layer is noticeably thinner than what you’ll find on the Vomero 18, it still feels secure and well-executed underfoot. And because Nike’s outsole compounds are known for their long-term durability, you can expect this setup to hold up well over high mileage without prematurely wearing down. Overall, it’s a reliable outsole design that supports the shoe’s smooth ride without adding unnecessary weight.
Invincible 3
The Nike Invincible 3 uses a generously rubberized outsole that spans nearly the entire bottom of the shoe, giving you solid traction and a familiar Nike road-running feel. The rubber thickness is similar to what you’ll find on the Vomero Plus, but the difference in durability shows up in the midsole. Because the Invincible 3 uses the older, less resilient ZoomX formula, it tends to compress and lose its lively feel sooner than the updated foam in the Vomero Plus. So while the outsole itself holds up reasonably well, the overall lifespan of the shoe is shorter, making the Vomero Plus the more durable long-term option.
Performance: Daily Training, Long Runs, and Recovery
When it comes to daily training and recovery days, the Nike Vomero Plus really shines. Its lighter build and refined ZoomX midsole make it feel effortless underfoot, ideal for easy runs, recovery jogs, or long walks when you just want your legs to cruise without stress. The ride is smooth, consistent, and forgiving mile after mile, which means less fatigue and more comfort over time.
If you’re trying to carry pace or hold tempo without overthinking your steps, the Vomero Plus is also the smarter bet. The mature ZoomX foam delivers a stable, responsive push-off that feels more controlled than the bouncy, unpredictable ZoomX in the Invincible 3. While the Invincible 3 still offers livelier energy return and a snappier feel, it can struggle to hold that bounce over sustained efforts, making its responsiveness feel more volatile than useful.
In terms of ride character: the Nike Invincible 3 leans toward energetic responsiveness, good for short bursts, casual runs, or days when you want spring with every step. The Vomero Plus, however, favors smoothness, predictability, and all-day comfort, a better match for longer distances, daily training, and recovery miles. If your focus is steady mileage, joint comfort, and consistent performance over time, the Vomero Plus is the more dependable shoe.
Who Should Buy Each Shoe
Nike Vomero Plus
- Runners who prioritize balanced cushioning — soft enough for recovery runs and long miles, but stable enough for everyday training.
- Those who value durability: the refined ZoomX paired with a broad outsole base makes this shoe a reliable companion for high-mileage training.
- People looking for versatility: whether it’s easy runs, long steady runs, recovery days, or walking-heavy errands, Vomero Plus handles it all without changing shoes.
- Neutral runners seeking comfort and consistency over time, especially those who want a smooth, forgiving ride mile after mile.
If you’re building a “do-it-all” shoe that can handle varied workouts, daily wear, and recovery runs without fuss, Vomero Plus is a strong all-rounder.
Nike Invincible 3
- Runners chasing max softness and bounce—the ZoomX midsole delivers that plush, springy ride ideal for easy runs, recovery days, or when you just want feather-light cushioning.
- Those who value high energy return—if you enjoy lively, energetic runs with each stride feeling buoyant, the Invincible 3 delivers that “trampoline” sensation that makes legs feel fresh.
- Runners looking for good structural stability—thanks to its supportive upper, sculpted base, and stable midsole geometry, the Invincible 3 works well for neutral runners and even mild overpronators needing extra support.
- People doing short to moderate runs, easy miles, or casual training—not necessarily for grind-it-out long-distance runs, but perfect for daily easy runs, recovery runs, or times when comfort and cushioning are the main goals.
If you want a soft, responsive shoe with high energy return and supportive structure for everyday training or recovery miles, the Invincible 3 is a great choice.
Which One Is Better? (Final Verdict)
When it comes down to Nike Vomero Plus vs Nike Invincible 3, the clearer long-term winner is the Nike Vomero Plus. It delivers a more refined ZoomX experience, better durability, smoother transitions, and stronger day-to-day versatility. It’s the shoe most runners can rely on for easy runs, long runs, recovery miles, and even daily wear, making it the best all-around choice for the majority of runners.
The Nike Invincible 3, on the other hand, is now officially discontinued, and once remaining pairs disappear from the market, it won’t be around anymore. It still offers that unmistakable soft, springy, high-energy ride that some runners adore, but it’s a niche preference, great for those who love maximum bounce and don’t mind a bit of unpredictability underfoot.
In short:
- Vomero Plus: the dependable, versatile successor built for most runners.
- Invincible 3: the fun, ultra-bouncy outlier for those who prioritize softness and energy return above all else.
With the Invincible 3 fading out and the Vomero Plus taking its place in Nike’s max-cushion lineup, the choice becomes even clearer: the Vomero Plus is the future, and it’s the better everyday companion for nearly every runner.
Nike Vomero Plus vs Nike Invincible 3 FAQs
Here are some of the most common questions runners ask when deciding between the Nike Vomero Plus vs Nike Invincible 3. This quick FAQ section helps clarify fit, performance, durability, and long-term value, especially now that the Vomero Plus officially replaces the Invincible 3.
Is the Nike Invincible 3 discontinued?
Yes. The Invincible 3 has been discontinued, and once remaining inventory sells out, it will no longer be available. The Nike Vomero Plus is its effective replacement in the max-cushion lineup.
Which shoe has softer cushioning?
The Nike Invincible 3. Its early ZoomX formula is softer, bouncier, and more energetic—but also less controlled.
Which shoe is more stable?
The Invincible 3 offers more structural stability thanks to its sculpted geometry and supportive upper. The Vomero Plus is more stable than past Vomeros but is still designed for neutral runners.
Which shoe is better for long runs and daily mileage?
The Nike Vomero Plus. Its refined ZoomX foam holds its shape better, feels more consistent, and delivers smoother transitions over long distances.
Which shoe lasts longer?
The Vomero Plus. Its updated ZoomX formula and durable outsole design give it a longer lifespan than the softer, more compression-prone Invincible 3.
Which shoe should neutral runners choose?
Neutral runners can use either, but the Vomero Plus is the better all-rounder. It’s smoother, lighter, and more versatile.
Which shoe works better for mild overpronators or supinators?
The Invincible 3. Its structure unexpectedly supports mild overpronation and even helps center supinators thanks to its sidewalls and geometry.
Which shoe is better for recovery days?
The Vomero Plus. While the Invincible 3 is soft, the Vomero Plus is lighter and smoother, making it easier on tired legs.
Which shoe feels more fun to run in?
If “fun” means bounce and trampoline-like energy, then the Invincible 3. If “fun” means smoothness and effortless rolling transitions, then the Vomero Plus.
Which one should most runners buy?
The Nike Vomero Plus. It’s more versatile, more durable, and the official next-generation model replacing the Invincible 3.
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