Comparison:
Nike Vaporfly 3 vs Nike Vaporfly 2
The Vaporfly is Nike's most popular long distance racing shoe. Here we will be comparing the Vaporfly 2 and the Vaporfly 3.
Comparison:
The Nike Vaporfly is the original super shoe and the most popular racer. It's such a popular racer because of its wide availability, its low weight and its high level of speed assistance.
Version 2 was only an upper update but version 3 is a complete revamp. Which version is better for you?
Similarity and differences: ZoomX Vaporfly 3 vs ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2
Expert score
8/10
8/10
Weight
6.5 oz
6.6 oz
Heel Drop
8 mm
8 mm
Verdict
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly 3 is a soft, bouncy super shoe best suited to marathons. It doesn't offer as much speed assistance as other top tier carbon racers because of its gentle forefoot rocker but it's incredibly lightweight and extremely comfortable. Version 3 has been improved in a number of areas including stability, cushioning and weight. The forefoot is softer so it doesn't feel as fast as the Vaporfly 2 but its ride is plusher and it has more long-distance comfort.
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 is still a superlight racing powerhouse with excellent cushioning and propulsion. What makes it so special is its unique forefoot geometry that provides a forward-tipping sensation during each toe-off.
This version is an upper-only update that improves the fit and comfort of the shoe.
This version is an upper-only update that improves the fit and comfort of the shoe.
Recommended for
Racing, speedwork, long distance racing
Racing, speedwork
Cushioning type
Balanced
Balanced
Cushioning amount
Highly cushioned
Highly cushioned
Flexibility
rigid
rigid
Stability
some stability
not particularly stable
Sizing
true to size
true to size
Retail price
US$250
US$250
Sole unit: ZoomX Vaporfly 3 vs ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2
Both versions use Nike’s premier midsole foam, ZoomX but the midsole of the Vaporfly 3 feels softer than the Vaporfly 2. The Vaporfly 3 has more cushioning under the forefoot and it has a plusher ride than the Vaporfly 2.
The Vaporfly 2 feels faster because of its firmer ride whereas the Vaporfly 3 has more long-distance comfort. The Vaporfly 3 is geared more towards marathons but the Vaporfly 2 performs better in shorter races.
The Vaporfly 2 has a more aggressive toe-spring than the Vaporfly 3 so it has a more prominent forefoot rocker. You can feel a higher level of speed assistance in the Vaporfly 2 compared to the 3.
Stability is better in the Vaporfly 3 due to its wider base. If you need more stability, the Vaporfly 3 is the better option.
On the outsoles, the Vaporfly 3 has less rubber than the Vaporfly 2. The rubber is thinner and less durable. The middle of the outsole of the Vaporfly 3 also scuffs much easier so the Vaporfly 2 outsole will outlast the Vaporfly 3.
Upper unit: ZoomX Vaporfly 3 vs ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2
The upper of the Vaporfly 3 feels more refined and more comfortable than the upper of the Vaporfly 2. It’s more accommodating in the midfoot and forefoot so it fits more like a trainer than a racer.
The toe-box of the Vaporfly 3 has big holes in it which the Vaporfly 2 doesn’t. This makes it more breathable and better for racing.
The ankle area of the Vaporfly 3 conforms to the foot better and there aren’t large gaps around the ankle like in the Vaporfly 2. Both racers fit true to size.
Which one to buy: ZoomX Vaporfly 3 vs ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2
If you’re looking for a short distance racer and you don’t need much stability, get the Vaporfly 2. It feels leaner and faster than the Vaporfly 3.
If you are looking for a long-distance racer, get the Vaporfly 3. It’s more comfortable and has more cushioning.
The two racers weigh almost exactly the same so your decision should be based on what you will be using it for.
Best price online: ZoomX Vaporfly 3 vs ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2
This expert review is written by
Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert
Brandon is a South African who lives and trains in Malaysia. He is a marathon runner who eats, sleeps and dreams running shoes. While most people wear shoes to run, he runs to wear shoes.
