The Nike Air Vapormax Plus Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models of 2026

The Nike Air VaporMax Plus is a versatile lifestyle sneaker designed for casual wear. Ideal for those seeking comfort during long walks, this shoe features a padded yet lightweight structure that allows for extended use without discomfort.

The innovative Air technology provides significant cushioning, which translates to enhanced support and a notable reduction in fatigue. Although its premium price point may not appeal to budget-conscious consumers, the performance benefits are statistically significant, making it a reliable choice for everyday wear.


Pros

  • VaporMax tech offers fantastic impact protection
  • Lightweight structure
  • Stretchy upper
  • Makes you taller
  • Eye-catching colors
  • Cool reflective accents
  • Bouncy and responsive ride
  • Surprisingly great outsole girp

Cons

  • Sky-high price
  • Upper lacks durability

Key Features

  • Classic Design: Inspired by the 1998 Air Max Plus with a contemporary twist.
  • VaporMax Technology: Provides cushioning and support for improved comfort during runs.
  • Padded Upper: Ensures a snug fit and additional comfort around the ankle.
  • Floating Cage: Offers stability while maintaining a lightweight feel.
  • Available Colors: Sunset Pulse/Black-Ghost Green, Pink Bubblegum.

Specifications

  • Sole Material: Thermoplastic Elastomers.
  • Outer Material: Nike Materials.
  • Closure Type: Lace-Up.
  • Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant.

Nike Air Vapormax Plus Review & Lab Test: Shop Men’S & Women’S Models – Price, Ratings, Reviews & Sales Insights

Nike Air VaporMax Plus Nike Tech Hera New Balance 2002R New Balance 1906R
Price $210 $160 $145 $150
Style Retro Sporty Classic Classic
Breathability Warm Warm Warm Breathable
Weight lab 12.9 oz / 366g 13.4 oz / 381g 13.5 oz / 383g 14.1 oz / 401g
Size True to size True to size True to size True to size
Midsole softness Firm Balanced Firm Firm
Material - Suede Mesh Mesh
Season Spring Winter Spring Spring
Inspired from Running Running Running Running
Width / fit Medium Wide Medium Medium
Toebox width Wide Medium Medium Medium
Leather/suede quality - Real suede Real suede Real suede
Toebox durability Bad Good Decent Decent
Heel padding durability Good Bad Decent Bad
Outsole durability Decent Bad Good Good
Heel stack lab 39.3 mm 35.8 mm 35.4 mm 37.1 mm
Stiffness Moderate Stiff Stiff Moderate
Tongue padding Average Thin Average Average
Drop lab 9.8 mm 11.1 mm 11.1 mm 11.5 mm
Forefoot 29.5 mm 24.7 mm 24.3 mm 25.6 mm
Removable insole
Heel tab Finger loop Finger loop None Extended heel collar
Torsional rigidity Stiff Stiff Moderate Moderate
Heel counter stiffness Moderate Moderate Moderate Flexible
Reflective elements
Closure Laces Laces Laces Laces
Top Low top Low top Low top Low top
Ranking Top 17% Bottom 14% Bottom 30% Top 18%
Popularity Top 48% Bottom 14% Top 10% Top 15%