The asymmetric lacing system bonds the shoes to your feet, and the updated lace loop eliminates the need for an arch band – helping to relieve pressure on the top of the foot. On the top, you'll find the new Vaporweave upper, a lightweight woven mesh with upgraded moisture-wicking properties (compared to the original Vaporfly 4%). The carbon plate is there to distribute propulsion as you roll your feet forward after landing on the soft cloud that is the ZoomX cushion.

I'll let Nike explain: 'Pebax has a lower density than some thermoplastic alternatives, and this makes it lighter, flexible and more impact-resistant, whilst giving it a higher capacity for energy-return.' All we have to pay attention to are the last five words.Įmbedded in the ZoomX foam, you'll find a full-length curved carbon fibre plate. The base of the ZoomX foam is Pebax, a material traditionally used in aerospace innovation. The key component is the ZoomX foam, the updated version of the Zoom foam used in the original Nike Zoom Vaporfly 4%. These shoes have been engineered not to look cool but to deliver performance when you need them.

With the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%, form truly follows function. (Image credit: Future) Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% review: tech and ergonomics

Nike zoom vaporfly