Written by Brandon Law
Marathon Runner and Shoe Expert · 222 articles
Published
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The Vomero was designed to be a versatile daily trainer, capable of handling various terrains- a more premium, more luxurious version of the Pegasus. Over the years, it has evolved, becoming more cushioned and softer.
Version 18 is vastly different to previous versions. It has a much thicker midsole, a new upper and a new outsole.
This comparison will tell you which version is better for you.
Similarity and differences: Vomero 18 vs Vomero 17
 Nike Vomero 18 |  Nike Vomero 17 | |
|---|---|---|
| Expert score | 7/10 | 8/10 |
| User score | 7.7/10 · 3 reviews | 8.5/10 · 4 reviews |
| Best price, men | Nike Vomero 18, men:  from $87.97 | Nike Vomero 17, men:  from $74.31 |
| Best price, women | Nike Vomero 18, women:  from $76.74 | Nike Vomero 17, women:  from $78.86 |
| Verdict | The Nike Vomero 18 is a soft, max-cushioned trainer that’s best suited to easy or recovery runs. It’s not as versatile as previous Vomeros but it has deeper cushioning and a plusher ride. Version 18 has a much thicker midsole than its predecessor with more ReactX than ZoomX- this results in less energy return but more shock absorption. | The Nike Vomero 17 is a good, premium trainer that delivers a cushioned, stable ride. It has a balanced ride suitable for most types of runs. While it isn't as exciting as some of the other premium trainers, it excels in outsole durability. Version 17 is an improvement over version 16. It has a plusher, more energetic ride with smoother transitions due to the removal of the outdated Zoom airbag. |
| Review | Vomero 18 review | Vomero 17 review |
| Brand | Nike | Nike |
| Shoe type | Cushioning | Cushioning |
| Weight | 10.5 oz lighter | 10.6 oz |
| Heel drop | 10 mm | 10 mm |
| Cushioning | Highly cushioned | Highly cushioned |
| Cushioning type | Plush | Balanced |
| Stability | Very stable | Some stability |
| Flexibility | Flexible | Flexible |
| Sizing | true to size | true to size |
| Best for | Daily training | Daily training |
| Retail price | US$155 | US$160 |
Score breakdown: Vomero 18 vs Vomero 17
| Vomero 18 | Vomero 17 | |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | Comfort | 8 |
| 7 | Sole unit | 8 |
| 8 | Upper | 6 |
| 7 | Transition | 8 |
| 7 | Toe-off | 8 |
| 6 | Durability | 10 |
Vomero 18 wins: Comfort, Upper, lighter
Vomero 17 wins: Sole unit, Transition, Toe-off, Durability
Sole unit: Vomero 18 vs Vomero 17
Vomero 18
Vomero 17The midsole of the Vomero 18 is made of a combination of ZoomX and ReactX. About 30% of the midsole is ZoomX and 70% is ReactX. The ZoomX is for plush and energetic landings and toe-offs. The ReactX is for durability and stability.
The midsole of the Vomero 17 is made of ZoomX and Cushlon 3.0. About 50% of it is ZoomX while 50% is Cushlon. The thick layer of ZoomX in the 17 gives it a very energetic, very lively ride. The Cushlon ensures that it is stable and durable.
The ride of the 18 is softer and more deeply cushioned than the 17. The 17 has a faster, firmer ride which feels more bouncy than the 18. This makes the 17 better for short and fast runs while the 18 is better for slow runs which are longer in duration.
The thick midsole of the 18 makes it heavier. This results in a more sluggish ride because it is heavier. The lighter version 17 feels more nimble and more agile. There is also less ground feel and more shock absorption in the 18 compared to the 17.
The outsole of the 18 has a lot less rubber on it than the 17. The 17 is more durable and will last longer than the 18. The 17 also has better traction and it has more lugs on its outsole.
When it comes to stability, the 17 is more stable than the 18. Your feet sit lower to the ground because of the lower stack heights. It also has a firmer ride which has less lean bias.
Upper unit: Vomero 18 vs Vomero 17
Vomero 18
Vomero 17The uppers of both version are very comfortable. The 18 has more padding which makes it feel warmer and better suited to cool climates. The 17 is more breathable and better suited to warm climates.
They both have internal heel counters and provide excellent foot lockdown. Both fit true to size but the 18 as a more spacious upper and is better for runners who have wide or high volume feet.
Which one to buy: Vomero 18 vs Vomero 17
Vomero 18
Vomero 17If you’re looking for a max-cushioned trainer for mostly relaxed easy or recovery runs, the Vomero 18 is the better choice. It has deeper cushioning, a plusher ride and it has a more comfortable upper. It’s also $10 cheaper than the Vomero 17. If you have wide or high volume feet, the roomier Vomero 18 is also the better choice.
If you’re looking for a more versatile daily trainer that can pick up the pace, the Vomero 17 is the better choice. It has a more lively, more energetic ride and weighs less. It has a more durable outsole and it has better stability. If you have narrow or low volume feet, the snugger Vomero 17 is the better choice.
Best price online: Vomero 18 vs Vomero 17
from $87.97 from $76.74 Nike Vomero 18 price comparison
Nike from $87.97 
Running Warehouse from $99.88 
Zappos from $116.25 
Amazon from $117.89 Amazon from $76.74 
Nike from $87.97 
Zappos from $95.37 
Running Warehouse from $99.88 We may earn a commission when you buy through these links; it doesn't change your price. How we work
from $74.31 from $78.86 Nike Vomero 17 price comparison
We may earn a commission when you buy through these links; it doesn't change your price. How we work
Written by Brandon
All articles by Brandon
This comparison was written by Brandon Law. Published . Brandon is a South African marathoner based in Malaysia, where the humidity is high and his shoe rotation is even higher. He’s a runner with a full-blown addiction to running shoes. Most people buy shoes to run—Brandon runs to justify buying more shoes. If there’s a new drop, he’s probably already logged 100km in them.
