 Nike Zoom Vomero+ 4 Mens  Nike Zoom Vomero+ 4 Womens |
| Full Name: Nike Zoom Vomero+ 4 |
| Category: Cushioning |
| Weight: 12 oz. (344 gr.) |
| Suggested Price: 135 $ |
| Reccomended For: Supinators (Under Pronators) to Neutral Pronators looking for good cushioning |
Nike Zoom Vomero +4 General Info:
The Zoom Vomero+ 4 is Nike’s top shoe for the cushioning category and therefore is aimed at Neutral to Under Pronators (Supinators).
Nike has had some good success with previous editions of this shoe and has put special care in this update. The Vomero comes in 2 versions, mens and womens, and each version has specific sole unit and upper solutions to better satisfy the needs of both.
Let’s take a look at the details.
Nike Zoom Vomero +4 Sole Unit:
The sole unit of the Vomero 4 is the same as in last year’s Vomero 3, which was well received and got a pretty consistant feedback of being one of the best cushioned rides among cusioning shoes.
The Vomero, both in mens and womens, comes with full-foot Zoom Air cushioning. Air is Nike’s trademark cushioning technology. Compare to the traditional Nike Air or Air Max, the Zoom technology allows the shoes to achieve the same amount of cushioning with a much thinner air pad inserted in the midsole. As we said before, runners (even heavy ones) have been happy with the soft, bouncy ride offered by these shoes.
On the medial side we can notice am asymmetrical plastic shank, introduced to add stability to the midsole and guide your footstrke from heel to toe preventing dangerous dis alignment of your foot’s axe. Even though the shank is not as important in a cushioning shoe as it is in a stability or motion control one, it is still a very important part of the support your shoe can offer you and the Vomero’s is unfortunately not on par with the kind of shanks you find in Asics shoes (Space Trusstic System). One very good point though is that mens and womens version of the shoe incorporate different shanks – as womens need more support because of their naturally higher cue angle.
Heel and toe is where you notice the main differences between the mens and womens shoe. For both genders the heel is decoupled, so that you have two almost independent parts free to hit the ground at different times and speed and actually cushioning your foot when and where you need it. What the mens and womens’ heels differ is the bevel at the end of the heel: it is much more accentuated in the womens shoe than it is in the mens. Beveling the heel is a widely used solution in todays running shoes and its purpose is to help your heel roll on the impact instead of just hitting the ground. In the Vomero, the bevel is more accentuated in the womens shoe and that is because womens have a generally lower body mass than men: men hit the floor harder and the higher force applied by their body weight compresses the heel on the impact, while womens’ lighter bodies compress it less.
On the toe area we have gender specific flex grooves (the “cuts” on the outsole): mens cuts are not as accentuated since the higher weight makes it easier for a mens’ toe to flex than it is for womens – the deeper cuts in the Vomero help balance this difference.
Last word on the midsole, as all Nike running shoes, is the spot for inserting the Nike+ sensor: a device that communicates with your iPod tracking your running data such as mileage, speed…
Nike Zoom Vomero +4 Upper:
While spotting the differences in the midsole requires a close look, it is easy to see that the mens and womens upper are very different – at least aesthetically. There’s a molded sockliner in the shoe that provides you extra cushion while adapting to the shape of your foot, providing for an extremely comfortable ride.
The midfoot section of the upper is wrapped in a flexible cage so to adapt to the natural expansion of your foot during the foot strike.
A molded heel counter makes sure your heel stays in position during your ride.
The mesh is very open and breathable, contributing to the lightness of this shoe. Womens version has more accentuated synthetic leather overlays to add support.
Nike Zoom Vomero +4 Opinion:
The Vomero is a shoe with many fans and this is because of a consistant feedback of comfort and lightweight especially for runners who go long mileages.
Even though the shoe does not adapt as many technical solutions as Asics, for example, the final result is a shoe that deliver its promises: it offers a soft, cushy ride for both heavier Neutral Pronators and Supinator, and keeps the sensation for long rides.
2010 UPDATE! You can read our Nike Vomero+ 5 review here.
Nike Zoom Vomero +4 Price Comparison:
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Let us know what you think of this shoe in the comments!
The vomero 2 was the best. The 3 and 4 Vomeros are mushy.
Yep, adored the 2. Two much spring or mush or whatnot in the 3 and 4. Really wish they hadn’t thrown out the design of the 2, which was outstanding.
I agree with both. The 2 was an excellent shoe, I got less mileage out of the 3′s then either of my 2′s. I am off to go buy a 4 because I have not found another shoe that does not feel like my heal is stricking directly on the pavement. I also had the sole split on the 3 and then it was junk. Just because I don’t run in it anymore should not mean it is destined for the trash heap. The 2′s I keep around to walk in…no such luck with the 3, it is off to the shoe recycler, disappointing. I wish I found another shoe that worked for me, but until I do I don’t have much choice.
I am a 135 lb female runner running two half marathons per year, averaging 25 to 40km per week. I’m new to the Vomero world. I just bought the 4s after my last race. I wore Air Max Moto’s before and wanted to try something new. My arches are high and I have a narrow heel, so I have difficulty finding a shoe that isn’t too shallow. I find the toe box on this shoe very roomy and the cushioning is outstanding! My knees are loving this shoe. I will by this model again when these ones wear out.
I agree with the previous comments that the Vomero 2 was the best of the bunch. I owned 2 pair of 3′s and I was pretty disappointed. The Vomero 3 was far too mushy. It seems like I wore out the midsole after 250 miles on each pair. I am running with my 1st pair of Vomero 4s now. So far, I have 200 miles on them and they seem to be holding up well. While I do not like them as much as the 2s, the Vomero 4 is a far better version than the 3. They seem to have an improved upper and the midsole is slightly more firm.
First pair of Nike running shoes for me. Was running in Asic, was recommended the Zoom Vomer+4 tried them on and they felt great.
Took them out for a 12 mile run and was surpised y the feel.
Very well cushioned, felt like they were propelling me forward with each stride, nice room in the toe box.
I had ought these as a second pair to alternate shoes, I’m not sure I’m gonna put the Asics back on.
Nice shoe, I like ‘em.
I’ve taken up running just recently after a 17-year haitus (ran a bit in HS). Since I’ve recovered from separate knee injuries not related to running — torn PCL on the left knee and torn MCL on the right knee— I was looking for the best running shoe for me to reduce the impact on my knees. Upon getting fitted, trying out several other brands, the Vomero 4 was the better fit for my concerns. I ran a half marathon recently with little to no training (stupid idea at the time, I know), but I finished the race. Knees are happy. I’m happy with the pair. So far so good!
I am in the military and bought a pair of Vomero 3 right after they came out about a year ago. I had been having horrible chin splints and pain in knees and everything. I bought these and within two weeks it was gone. Anytime I put on another pair of shoes and do any type of running I feel it come back but I put the Vomero pair on and its disappears. I just bought the Vomero 4 with form fitting insoles. Definitely going to stick with these types for a long time.
The Vomero 4 is the 1st of the Bowerman Series shoes for me. All I can say is WOW! I am a heavy weight (6′-1″ and 265 lbs.) so I am always very concerned about my knees. My previous shoe had me dealing with shin splints and tight muscles all the time, but it was a top brand and my friends had recommended them. Time for new shoes came and I went to a running shoe store and tried several that they recommended. The Vomero was the 4th pair that I tried on and they immediately got my attention. The are so comfortable, I told my wife they were like running on clouds. I am very, very happy and after about 2 weeks running in them my pain is all but gone and I am running further and faster than ever.
Hi All,
I suffered in injury in both feet a few months back and found out the other day that I have Plantar Fasciitis. I really want to get back into low impact work at the gym cycling and a little running and was recommended these at the local ‘He Runs She Runs’. They feel amazing on but was wondering whether these are actually suitable enough for me or was I just given some sales pitch? I aim to be running properly in them in 6 months or so but would be greatful for any thoughts.
Regards
Micky
Micky B,
You have the right shoe. I’m 6’3 285 and a long time athlete who never ran over 2 miles (football). Got into tri’s 2 summers ago and got plantar after 2 months of hard training on regular 65$ “running shoes”. Bad enough I couldn’t walk without pain for about a month. I tried running with the pain like a moron. My PT and pediatrist sent me to a real store (marathon sports, amazing) got fitted for underpronation and was put in the vomero 3. Cycled and elipticaled rest of the summer and fall of ’08. Bought the vomero 4 in march ’09 and hit the pavement fast. NO return symptoms or problems in 9 months with 3 sprint tri’s and probably 9-12 miles a week. Just ordered another pair for myself for christmas! Stick with the shoes and be confident and good luck recouping. (and I’m completely biased because I have no other shoes to compare it to, hahaha)
I am 49, tall and slim, mostly a cyclist, but like to run for cross-training. One reason I gave up running and switched to cycling was knee pain caused by repeated impact of running. Lately, I’ve decided to give running a try again, so I’ve been shopping for running shoes that would provide maximum cushioning.
Today, I went to a running store and tried on several shoes, looking for the most shock absorption I could find. The Vomero 4 was hands down the winner. Absolutely amazing amount of springy cushioning, and the shoes really do feel like they are propelling you forward. Running in these things almost make you feel like you are cheating.
All I can say is, if you are a Nike engineer and are reading this, whatever you do, DON’T take out cushioning in the next rendition of this shoe! Many of us middle-aged folks trying to stay healthy have knee issues, and we want all the cushioning we can get. These shoes, in their current form, deliver that in spades.
The Vomero is very forgiving on pavement and all weather track surfaces. I generally use my Torch 3 for trail work and hill sprints. The fabric breathes well and it’s pretty light for a bulky looking shoe. Despite the weird feeling of the zoom sole, I really like it.
I just got home after purchasing the Vomero 4′s and I must say that after reading the review and all your comments, that I’m stoked to go out and run on these tomorrow. I’m typically a trail runner, but I’ll be moving to the east coast for a job and won’t have time to hit the trails as much, so I wanted a running shoe that I could bring with me to where I could hit the pavement when I’m on layovers. I also didn’t want something that didn’t look bulky like a trail running shoe and I can say that it’s one beautiful piece of footwear.
I’m a middle man in terms of running 20 miles/week, and also on feet all day as a physical therapist. I have neutral arches, 6’2, around 200 pounds. I have been running around 15 years and absolutely love the Vomero 4, have tried cheaper shoes but these are worth the higher cost, highly recommend.
I just got the Vomero 4′s and have ran on Vomero models since they first came out. I really haven’t noticed a huge difference in customing weight between each model- I usually get the marked down model after Nike releases their latest version of the Vomero (Got these for $80!)
I’m an avid runner. I’ve done 6 marathons. This is hands down the best shoe for long distance- it’s light and the cushion is unmatched. I think Nike may get a bad rep for it’s running shoes because they put out a lot of heavy, stupid shoes like the Shox but the Vomero is defintely worth the money. I can usually get about 350-400 miles a pair.
Excellent shoe- wouldn’t change anything on it except making it with cool colors.
I am a 51 year old 6’1″ female hiker/walker/runner with plantar fasciitis, which of all my injuries over the years has honestly been the worst by far. It just won’t go away despite PT, docs, orthotics, etc. Tried various shoes and have just purchased the Vomero 4. I ordered a bunch of shoes online and tried them all on one after the other. The Vomero was instantly the most comfortable of them all. I’m excited to give it a try.
I purchesed the Nike Vomero 4,s, love em but this is the downside, I had these beautiful running shoes about 3 months now .There falling apart had to glue the back bottom heel because it was coming undone now 3 weeks later coming loose again going to reglue them again . Other then that i love them But at the price i paid for them i thought they would hold up longer. I always ran and bought cheap running shoes starters from WalMart etc cheap in price in general, I’m afraid to buy another pair . My friend once gave me apair of new ballance lightly used they lasted for ever also had great comfort, Im clueless . Thanks John Caiati
Now the tread is flapping in the breeze, The glue seems to be holding on the repair .The other shoe needs some glue on the heel coming loose . I only lightly jog and power walk about 20 25 miles a week .I think i will try another brand these are only 3 months old .
I love these shoes. I run on 3 brands and these are by far my favories. I typically log 30 miles per week, and when marathon day arrives, this is the shoe I reach for. They are very cushioned compared to my others, and holding up very well (currently have 150 miles on them). They look like they will last to 250 miles at least.
I loved the Vomero 2s and have missed them for years. I found a pair on line a few weeks ago and am in running heaven again. I have a newish pair of 4s that I will race in (the 3s and 5s stink). I need to find another pair of 2s before Boston. Any idea how?
The Nike Air Zoom Miler were THE best shoes. Not the track and field edition, I believe they were named after some runner. They were the best running shoes.
I have run in many different brands. I usually run between 5-8 miles a day. Asics were ok, but caused horrible shin splints. Addidas and reebok didn’t work well. I recently tried mazuno, and I really do not like those shoes. Nike has always made a shoe that felt right, and the Vomero 4 are by far the best running shoe I have ever worn.
Hey Nelson thanks for leaving a comment! Glad you liked the Vomero – it’s been a great success for Nike. We will soon review the 6, stay tuned!
I have to agree the 2 are the best. I still surf the web looking for inventory.
The 3s were a disappointment.
The 4s are not bad, but not as good as the 2s
The 5s were not good
And I’m not sure the 6s are even Vomeros. Has the current product manager forgot the the key value proposition and features that brought women runners to the Vomeros to begin with? And the quality is horrible.
I’m back to the net for 2 & 4s.
I have the Women’s Zoom Vomero+ 4. I’m only a year or so into running. But I find them amazing, I’ve ordered ones online from all sorts of places but I find this the most comfortable running shoe. Very soft hits, very good cushioning. I love it, I hope my next shoe is just as good as this one.
I have been wearing the Vomeros (4 &5s) and love them. I’m a 125lbs women and run about 40 miles per week. I’ve tried both the womens and mends models and I found get FAR more wear out of the mens version…like double the wear! The fit and support seem to be the same so I’m sticking with the mens version.
I have this vomero 4 it feels good i’ ve been running a lot I just did my half marathon and it is excellent .