Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next%
Yup, still with the percentage sign on the name. It’s really called the ZoomX Vaporfly Next%, but that’s where the blemishes stop. When you get over that odd moniker, there’s just so much to admire in Nike’s new trainers.
To make this marathon-ready pair, Nike sought feedback from its cache of world champion runners. And thus comes the new ZoomX Vaporfly Next%, an evolution from the brand’s Vaporfly 4%. Featuring Vaporweave, a new material construction that’s lighter than flyknit, these shoes are a lot more breathable and absorb less water from sweat or rain.
The ZoomX Vaporfly Next% marathon shoes also feature offset laces to reduce pressure on sensitive areas of the foot. Nike added extra Zoomx foam in the midsole, plus custom traction patterns for increased grip in wet weather. Nike listened well — traction improvements came from data by Eliud Kipchoge, Mo Farah, and Geoffrey Kirui.
Even with all these new upgrades, the pair weighs exactly the same as its predecessor. This should perhaps come as no surprise, as Nike always excels when it comes to streamlining design to cut bulk and fat.
“This shoe is truly the result of our athletes, sport scientists, engineers and designers closely collaborating throughout the entire process of design, testing and manufacturing,” says Nike.
The company is set to debut these kicks during the forthcoming London Marathon. It has also prepared a special release for those who really want a pair. Nike will offer limited quantities of the ZoomX Vaporfly Next% via the Nike Run Club App. They’ll cost $275 once released, which surely isn’t cheap even by Nike’s standards. But all evolution comes with a price. You can hit the link below for more information.
Photos courtesy of Nike