Nike Vomero Plus Review: Magic in the Middle

Introduction to the Nike Vomero Plus

MEAGHAN: By now, you might have wrapped your head around Nike’s revamped running shoe lineup, or maybe you’re still trying to make sense of it. Either way, here’s the bottom line: the Vomero Plus sits in Nike’s “recovery” category, positioned a notch above the familiar Vomero 18.

The key difference lies in the midsole — while the Vomero 18 combines ZoomX with ReactX, the Vomero Plus features a full ZoomX setup for a softer, more responsive ride. Stack height remains nearly identical, topping out at 45mm in the heel, but the price jumps to $180 compared to the Vomero 18’s $150. So what justifies the extra cost? Let’s break it down.

What we like about the Nike Vomero Plus

MEAGHAN: I received Nike’s launch colorway of the Vomero Plus — an unapologetically bold highlighter pink. Flashy isn’t usually my style when it comes to trainers, but I have to admit, I didn’t mind this one. The step-in feel is every bit as plush as it looks. With generous padding around the tongue and collar and a roomy toebox, comfort is literally everywhere. The fit was true to size with no hot spots or pressure points. In fact, I first received the Vomero Plus in Paris during Nike’s Breaking4 event, and I ended up wearing it for every single run while I was there.

Underfoot, the ZoomX midsole delivers that classic squishy, bouncy feel you’d expect from a max-cushioned recovery shoe. It’s worth noting, though, that this isn’t the exact same ZoomX compound found in Nike’s race-day models like the Alphafly or Vaporfly. According to the product team, the Vomero Plus uses a TPE-based ZoomX, rather than PEBA, but even so, it feels great underfoot. As someone who gravitates toward high-stack, ultra-cushioned shoes, this one fits squarely in my comfort zone.

The biggest difference between the Vomero Plus and the Vomero 18, in my opinion, is the ride. While the Vomero 18 is a solid option with a slightly firmer and more stable feel, the Vomero Plus takes it up a notch — more plush, more bounce, and a bit more refined. It also shaves off a little weight. My US W7.5 came in at 8.2 oz, compared to 8.7 oz for the Vomero 18. Both models have their place in a well-rounded shoe rotation, but for me, the Vomero Plus wins out with its extra softness and energy return.

What we don’t like about the Nike Vomero Plus

MEAGHAN: There’s not much to complain about with the Vomero Plus — it checks nearly all the boxes for what I look for in a max-cushioned trainer. If I had one hesitation, it’s whether the differences are distinct enough to sway most runners from the Vomero 18. The two shoes are quite similar in both ride and intended use, which might make the choice a bit confusing. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and, of course, your budget.

Final thoughts on the Nike Vomero Plus

MEAGHAN: The Vomero Plus quickly earned a top spot in my rotation. It’s perfect for easy daily miles, recovery runs after tough workouts, or even an easy long run. With its soft step-in feel and energetic, cushioned ride, it delivers everything you’d expect from a true max-cushioned recovery shoe. I’ll definitely be keeping this one in the mix through the rest of the summer. The only thing I’m more excited about? The upcoming Vomero Premium, which I had the chance to test on a short run, and let’s just say… It left a strong first impression.

You can pick up the Nike Vomero Plus for $180 on August 7, 2025, from Nike by using the buttons below.