Nike Vomero Premium
Pros
- Record-breaking shock absorption
- Massive 50+ mm stack height
- Cozy upper from heel to toe
- Surprisingly good grip
- Ultra-plush ZoomX foam
- Perfect for recovery days
- Solid durability
- Impressively stable for heel strikers
- Out-of-this-world aesthetics
Cons
- Lower energy return than expected
- Limited versatility
- High price tag
- Tapered toebox restricts toe splay
Key Features
- Rubber sole: Offers excellent traction and durability on various surfaces.
- Cushioned tongue and collar: Enhance comfort and support around the foot.
- Removable insole: Allows for customization of fit and support level.
- Round toe: Provides ample space for your toes, promoting comfort during movement.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Performance mesh
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Nike Vomero Premium is designed for runners seeking exceptional cushioning and impact protection. With its extensive stack height, it provides significant shock absorption while maintaining responsiveness and stability.
This shoe features a remarkable stack height of 50.1/41.3 mm, surpassing the average of 34.8/26.1 mm. It achieved top shock absorption scores of 173/147 SA in the heel and forefoot, with the forefoot delivering more protection than many competitors' heels.
The ride is enhanced by a smooth transition from landing to toe-off, demonstrated by an impressive energy return of 63.3% in the heel and 64.4% in the forefoot. This lively performance contributes to a dynamic running experience.
The Vomero Premium's bathtub-like platform cradles the foot securely, featuring a broad base that measures 118.4/103.2 mm, ensuring stability during runs without the feeling of wobbling.
While the Vomero Premium excels in various aspects, its price of $230 may not be suitable for every budget. For those seeking effective shock absorption at a lower cost, numerous alternatives are available.
New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5
Pros
- Exceptional all-around comfort
- Ultra-plush cushioning
- Ideal for slow long runs
- Great cushion-to-price ratio
- Remarkable stability for its size
- Superb lockdown
- Durable and high-grip outsole
- Well-designed rocker geometry
- Lots of improvements from v4
- Dependable grip
Cons
- Heavier than its predecessor
- Snug fit
- Maybe even too plush!
- A bit stiff for casual wear
Key Features
- Fresh Foam X midsole foam with approximately 3% bio-based content for exceptional cushioning and comfort.
- Engineered mesh upper for breathability and a snug fit, promoting airflow and reducing sweat buildup.
- Adjustable lace closure allows for a custom fit, accommodating different foot shapes and sizes.
- 4 mm drop provides a balanced feel; please note this is an approximate measurement due to manufacturing variances.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Rubber
- Inner material: Cotton
The New Balance Fresh Foam X More v5 is a reliable choice for runners seeking comfort and stability. Lab tests confirm its notable cushioning, grip, and durability, making it suitable for daily training without excessive wear on the outsole.
With a substantial stack height of 42.1/34.3 mm, the More v5 delivers generous comfort and muscle protection. The foam cushioning effectively reduces landing forces, evidenced by high shock absorption results of 156 SA in the heel and 133 SA in the forefoot, which helps keep legs feeling fresh during runs.
Despite its plush design, balance remains intact thanks to the midsole sidewalls and broad platform, measured at 124.6/105.0 mm, one of the widest observed in testing. This stability is complemented by the strong traction provided by the outsole.
Lab testing revealed a friction score of 0.55, indicating that the More v5 is 17.0% grippier than the average running shoe. It performs well in wet conditions, and minimal wear was noted after testing, with only 0.7 mm damage recorded on the rubber.
However, the increased height contributes to a stiffer ride than some may prefer. Runners who prioritize a more natural and flexible experience might consider opting for different trainers.
Mizuno Neo Vista 2
Pros
- Massive stack height
- Super-plush Enerzy NXT foam
- Perfect for long runs
- Lightweight for its huge size
- Good durability
- Breathable knit upper
- Roomy toebox height
- Insanely fun!
Cons
- Not enough energy return
- Price hike feels unjustified
- Not stable for heel strikers
Key Features
- MIZUNO ENERZY NXT: This next-generation midsole material maximizes energy return and cushioning, ensuring optimum performance and responsiveness.
- Knit Upper: The completely knit upper offers a sleek design while providing a natural fit suitable for all foot types.
- Eco-Friendly Materials: Made from recycled materials, making it an environmentally conscious choice.
- MIZUNO WAVE: The innovative MIZUNO WAVE plate disperses impact energy across a broader area, resulting in superior cushioning and stability.
- Smooth Speed Assist: Features a significant heel bevel for efficient midfoot landing, supporting the calf, with an aggressive forefoot rocker for smooth transitions.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Nylon
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Mizuno Neo Vista 2 is a unique running shoe designed for individuals who seek comfort and energy efficiency during their runs. It features a supersized stack that effectively absorbs impact, helping to keep legs feeling fresh over extended distances. Our lab tests confirm this model provides the best shock absorption among supination running shoes.
This shoe incorporates foam that scored **170 SA** in shock absorption—**32.8%** above average—which contributes significantly to reduced strain on the legs. With a **46.0/37.5 mm** stack height, the cushioning is generous regardless of landing position, with the forefoot being taller than most competitors’ heels.
Despite its thick platform, the Mizuno Neo Vista 2 offers a lively ride, characterized by a springy return confirmed by energy tests showing rebound scores of **60.3%** in the heel and **59.8%** in the forefoot. The flexible midsole further enhances the ride quality, demonstrating **10.0%** more pliability than average in our bend test, which promotes both comfort and adaptability.
However, these premium features come at a price point of **$200**, which may not suit all budgets. For runners seeking more affordable training options, alternatives are available.
Nike Vomero Plus
Pros
- Full ZoomX midsole provides energetic bounce
- Outstanding shock absorption in both heel and forefoot
- True high-stack design
- Premium comfort from walking to long runs
- Strong durability
- Great pick for easy days
- Midsole resists cold very well
- Comfortable heel counter
- Solid Bondi alternative inside Nike
Cons
- Heavier than it should
- Snug fit and narrow toebox
- Non-gusseted tongue
- Traction still needs improvement
Key Features
- Approximate Weight: 273g/9.6oz (Men's US 10)
- Heel-to-Toe Drop: 10mm
- Adjustable Fit: Webbed Lace Loops for customized tightening
- Safety Feature: Reflective details for visibility during low-light conditions
- Usage Caution: Not intended for personal protective equipment
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Polyurethane (PU)
- Outer Material: Performance mesh
- Inner Material: Performance mesh
The Nike Vomero Plus is an excellent choice for individuals seeking a walking and running shoe that offers significant cushioning for extended use. It provides remarkable shock absorption, as confirmed by lab tests, making it the top option in the Nike lineup for joint protection during activities. The outsole is designed for notable durability, ensuring it will remain functional across multiple seasons.
This model features a plush midsole, with a stack height measured at 42.3/32.7 mm. Our shock absorption tests recorded impressive results of 147 SA in the heel and 131 SA in the forefoot, exceeding average values of 128/105 SA. This level of performance contributes to its reputation for providing exceptional comfort.
The Vomero Plus incorporates a pronounced rocker in the rear section, facilitating smooth transitions as users land heel-first and roll forward. Underneath, full rubber coverage enhances protection against wear, showing only 0.8 mm damage in our Dremel test, which is 20.0% lower than average wear rates. This feature underscores its durability for rigorous use.
However, it's important to note that the toebox may feel restrictive, particularly for those with broader feet. Individuals requiring more space for their toes may want to consider trainers that offer a roomier fit. Overall, the Nike Vomero Plus stands out for its cushioning and durability, though some users might find the fit less accommodating.
ASICS Dynablast 5
Pros
- World-Class shock absorption
- Maximalist cushioning at an affordable price
- Ideal for beginners
- High durability ratings
- Exceptional value
- Stable forefoot platform
- Drop suits all footstrikes
- Breathable upper
- Can handle long runs with ease
Cons
- Moderate-to-low energy return
- Heavier than Novablast 3
- Low volume toebox
Key Features
- Engineered jacquard mesh upper: Improves breathability and fit for enhanced running comfort.
- FF BLAST PLUS cushioning: Offers lightweight impact absorption and a responsive rebound, perfect for various training intensities.
- Trampoline-inspired bounce: Provides an energetic feel with each step, enhancing your overall running experience.
- OrthoLite X-30 sockliner: Delivers soft step-in comfort, helping to reduce fatigue during long runs.
- AHAR LO outsole rubber: Increases durability, ensuring that these shoes can withstand the rigors of regular use.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
- Inner material: OrthoLite
The ASICS Dynablast 5 is an excellent choice for those seeking lightweight walking shoes that prioritize comfort and breathability. Our wear tests confirmed a cloudlike feel, enhanced by its impact-reducing max-stack design and effective shock absorption features.
During testing, we recorded significant levels of shock absorption, achieving **156 SA** in the heel and **127 SA** in the forefoot. This translates to a **21.9%** improvement in reducing landing impact compared to average, which contributes to decreased fatigue and discomfort. The shoe features a generous stack height of **39.4/31.8 mm**, providing a substantial layer of cushioning.
Despite the impressive cushioning, the Dynablast 5 maintains a lightweight profile, weighing only **9.3 oz (264g)**. The mesh upper enhances overall comfort through effective ventilation, achieving a **4/5 rating** in our breathability test, with no issues concerning sweat or heat accumulation during use.
However, it is important to note that the upper fits closely over the toes, as confirmed by our gel mold assessment indicating limited toebox height. Individuals with high-volume feet may find this fit restrictive and might want to consider alternative options for better accommodation.
HOKA Mafate 5
Pros
- Even more plush cushioning
- Enhanced energy return
- Roomier fit than most HOKA models
- Durable yet breathable knit upper
- Built for long ultras
- Outstanding Vibram Megagrip rubber
- Same price as the previous version
- Stable for its tall stack
- Solid durability
Cons
- Heavy (and heavier than version 4)
- Tongue design could be much better
- Could be too stiff for some
Key Features
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Upper: Warp knit with anti-fray treatment, TPU cage, gaiter attachment points, dynamic vamp, reflective details.
Midsole: Rocker Integrity Technology™, dual-density midsole with super critical foam top layer, premium sockliner.
Outsole: Vibram® Megagrip with Traction Lug technology, equipped with 5mm lugs.
Specifications
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Origin: Imported
Sole Material: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
Outer Material: Polyester
Inner Material: Textile
The HOKA Mafate is an ultra-cushioned trail shoe designed for long-distance running, making it suitable for those seeking comfort and support on rugged terrain. Despite the removal of "Speed" from its name, this shoe maintains a plush and energetic ride. Its breathable-yet-durable knit upper provides a surprisingly roomy fit compared to other HOKA models.
One notable feature is the Vibram Megagrip outsole, which delivers significant traction and durability, enhancing performance on various surfaces. However, some users may find the shoe feels somewhat clunky, and the tongue's design could be improved. Overall, the combination of cushioning and traction makes the HOKA Mafate a solid choice for trail enthusiasts.
A potential drawback is the additional weight, which may not align with the preferences of all runners. While the shoe excels in many areas, those who prioritize lightweight footwear might find this aspect less appealing. Nonetheless, the HOKA Mafate remains a robust option for those focused on stability and comfort during their outdoor adventures.