I wrote about its predecessor that it was a premium training shoe because the Vomero line had returned to its former glory. The Nike Vomero 18 continues that tradition, but in an even better version – the shoe is 7mm taller, which comes as no surprise. It has gained a little more cushioning while maintaining its softness, comfort and feel. Initial feedback suggests that the upper could be more breathable and the whole shoe lighter, but it is still a very good training shoe at a reasonable price.
Basic info
Tech specs
Purpose
The Nike Vomero 17 is a shoe designed for running on hard surfaces, offering a very high level of cushioning. Its specific features will appeal to runners who value comfort and those who are slightly heavier. Thanks to its well-chosen cushioning, this model is suitable even for people weighing 90-95 kg, effectively relieving pressure on the joints. It is a great choice for everyday, easy training, especially regenerative runs, when maximum comfort is what counts. In terms of biomechanics, it is a neutral shoe, which means that it is best suited for runners with a standard foot roll, without overpronation or supination.
Pros
- high cushioning
- stable and good support
- pleasant roll
- soft, comfortable upper
- very good value for money
Cons
- the upper seems not very breathable
- heavy (among the 18% heaviest training shoes)
Nike running shoes – lineup breakdown
Among Nike running shoes, the Vomero model remains one of the most cushioned running shoes, and in its latest version, it is basically on par with the Invincible model. If you don’t need such a high level of cushioning and prefer shoes with a little less cushioning and a lower midsole, the iconic Pegasus is a good alternative to the Vomero. In fact, the Pegasus is often referred to as the Vomero’s less cushioned sibling.
You can find more about these and other models in our Nike running shoe guide.
| NEUTRAL SHOES | STABILITY SHOES | |
|---|---|---|
| maximum cushioning |  Invincible Run 3 | |
| very high cushioning |  Vomero 18 |  Infinity Run 4 |
| high cushioning |  Pegasus 41 |  Structure 25 |
| mid cushioning |  Winflo 11 |
Nike Vomero 18 alternatives
The Nike Vomero 18 is one of the best-cushioned shoes in the “everyday training” category. The only alternatives are top models from other brands that focus on comfort for urban running.
Want to know more about these shoes? Check out our shoe guide for everyday running.
| MODEL | STACK HEIGHT (mm) | DROP (mm) | WEIGHT MEN'S (grams) | WEIGHT WOMEN'S (grams) | REGULAR PRICE (€) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| adidas Supernova Rise 2 | 36/26 | 10 | 275 | 230 | 150 |
| Asics Gel-Cumulus 26 | 37/29 | 8 | 253 | 222 | 160 |
| Brooks Ghost 16 | 35/24 | 12 | 278 | 249 | 150 |
| Hoka Clifton 9 | 32/27 | 5 | 248 | 205 | 150 |
| Mizuno Wave Rider 28 | 38/26 | 12 | 273 | 235 | 160 |
| New Balance 880 v14 | n/a | 8 | 270 | 209 | 160 |
| Nike Vomero 18 | 46/36 | 10 | 325 | 263 | 150 |
| On Cloudsurfer 7 | 32/22 | 10 | 245 | 205 | 170 |
| Saucony Ride 18 | 35/27 | 8 | 275 | 213 | 150 |
Even more premium cushioning
The midsole has undergone a major transformation in the Nike Vomero 18. Instead of the well-known duo of Cushlon 3.0 and ZoomX foams, we now have a combination of ReactX and ZoomX. Each of these plays its own role, creating a harmonious tandem. ReactX, being more resilient and slightly stiffer, adds stability to the shoe and facilitates smooth foot roll. ZoomX, known for its softness and dynamic rebound, is responsible for the characteristic, pleasant “cushioned” comfort. The result? High cushioning that makes running in the Vomero 18 a pure pleasure.
No one should be surprised that the Nike Vomero 18 has grown again – and quite a lot! In the latest version, the stack height is 46 mm at the heel and 36 mm at the forefoot, which is 7 mm more than in the previous model. This is a solid increase that translates into even better cushioning.
Can you actually feel the difference? In theory, yes, because the extra foam should make them even more comfortable. In practice, however, the initial impression of softness is just as pleasant in the Vomero 17 as in the latest version. Only longer runs can reveal how much this change affects the feel underfoot.
Such a high level of cushioning makes the Nike Vomero 18 a great choice for runners who cover long distances every day, as well as those who need extra support due to their heavier weight. It is particularly suitable for people weighing up to 90-95 kg. It’s no surprise that the Vomero 18 shows its strengths best during easy training sessions and long runs, where comfort plays a key role.
Urban outsole
The outsole of the Vomero 18 has undergone some changes, but it remains a typical urban construction. Rubber elements have been placed only in key areas of the midsole, which allows for a balance between grip and lightness. These elements are 2.2 mm high, but there are not many of them, which makes the outsole quite soft and not very aggressive.
This type of solution will work best on hard surfaces and sidewalks, where the shoe will provide adequate traction and durability. The Vomero 18 will also perform well on less concrete terrain, such as park paths or forest trails, although the more demanding the surface, the more traction may be lacking. This is an urban shoe, so don’t expect wonders.
The upper is comfortable but may be too warm
The upper of the Vomero 18 is a technical mesh with a modified structure compared to the previous version. The outer layer has larger holes, which in theory should improve ventilation, while the inner layer is soft and smooth, making the shoe more comfortable for the foot. In terms of breathability, it should be on par with other models, but initial reviews suggest otherwise.
The shoe is quite warm and definitely does not stand out in terms of breathability – on the contrary, it keeps the heat in more than you would expect. On hot days, this can be a problem, especially if you prefer well-breathing models. So if you pay attention to this and are looking for a shoe with maximum ventilation, the Vomero 18 may not be the best choice.
The Nike Vomero 17 has a fairly classic fit – neither too narrow nor overly wide. In US size 12, the width at the widest point is 104.2 mm, which is standard. The fit of the shoe is also improved by the tongue integrated into the upper and the softness of the material. The slender and tapered shape of the front of the shoe is also noticeable. Runners with standard feet whose longest toe is the big toe will not notice any difference. However, if you need more room for smaller toes, the Vomero may be too narrow to provide enough space. As always, it is worth trying them on before buying.
The rear part of the shoe has been traditionally reinforced with a plastic clip that stabilizes the heel and limits its sideways movement. Compared to the previous version, the heel counter has a slightly different, less curved shape. However, it holds the foot well and the Vomeo 18 is a stable shoe. This is thanks to both the heel counter and the appropriately wide midsole.
It makes up for its softness but is getting heavier
According to the producer, the men’s Nike Vomero 18 weighs 325 g, and the women’s 263 g. Compared to other running shoes, even those with solid cushioning, this is quite a lot. In my size, 12 US, the shoe weighs 366 g, which definitely places it in the heavier category.
It cannot be called “light as a feather” – among training shoes, it is among the 16% heaviest on the market. Despite this, it makes up for it with comfort, softness, and a very pleasant fit, thanks to which the weight of the shoe is not so noticeable while running. However, if you are looking for an ultra-light construction, it is worth considering other options.
Summary
The Nike Vomero 18 is growing again, which comes as no surprise. Thanks to the combination of ZoomX and ReactX foams, it offers an even higher level of comfort, making it a great choice for long, easy runs. Its biggest drawbacks are the limited breathability of the upper, which can make it too hot on warmer days, and its relatively high weight. Still, if softness, joint protection, and comfort on hard surfaces are your priorities, the Vomero 18 is a solid option in this category.
