Nike Vomero 17 (2024): Good Classic Daily Trainers?

The Nike Vomero 17 returns with a few changes but retains its signature cushioning.

Our Verdict

Introduction

The Vomero is a model that has undergone a lot of evolution as it struggled to find its place, while Nike expanded its series with shoes like the Invincible and Infinity.

Therefore, the brand has decided to change a number of things based on users’ criticisms. This is my first running experience with a Vomero. However, I’ve been following runners’ feedback over the years, and I ran over 300 km / 185 miles at different paces to fine-tune my review.

So, is the Nike Vomero 17 a good running shoe, and can it be right for you? Let’s find out in this analysis.

Cushioning

One of the main changes is the disappearance of the Zoom Air unit in the midsole, an iconic but dated technology. Judging from the many reviews I have read as part of my research on earlier Vomero iterations, the combination of Zoom Air Pods and ZoomX foam didn’t work very well, feeling too soft.

This time, the famous NIKE ZoomX material on the upper part is combined with Cushlon foam on the lower part. This way, the softness of the former is tempered by the firmness of the latter, and the result of this combination is neither too firm nor too soft. But the ride still retains its soft and plush feel.

The stack specs announce serious cushion: 39 mm at the rear and 29 mm under the metatarsal. The result? Shock absorption is optimal.

The Nike Vomero 17 has been designed to crush long miles on asphalt. As a good training partner, you can tackle any type of session without fear of distance. Moreover, the heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm is very classic and won’t upset brand regulars.

Energy return

In the opinion of many runners, the level of bounce is a bit higher with this combination of foams, especially thanks to ZoomX, which also equips the Vaporfly 3. So, the Nike Vomero 17 now allows a responsive yet stable ride and, therefore, is a more versatile daily trainer than the Vomero 16.

However, I’d like to put this point into perspective. I don’t doubt that it will improve with future versions, but for me, as it stands, the Vomero 17 still underperforms compared to many other models.

With a weight of 9.5 oz / 269 g in 40.5, it’s certainly lighter but not lightweight–it’s middle-of-the-pack. For example, I find its bounce comparable to that of a New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v13, which is satisfying and can handle all types of daily runs.

As with most of today’s shoes, there’s a slight rocker facilitating forward propulsion.

Support and stability

Firm Cushlon foam induces a secure roll-off of the foot, while the fit and wide platform provides good stability, a welcome feature for a shoe with a lot of cushioning. The shoe is designed for neutral runners.

In the past, the Vomero was a stability shoe. Therefore, it retains this heritage, even if it no longer features specific guidance to prevent overpronation.

Foot Lockdown

The upper has been redesigned, as it was criticized in the Vomero 16 for its lack of ventilation. So, now it’s lighter and more breathable. However, with all the padding, breathability remains average, and you can quickly feel hot in summer. But, in winter, it’s very pleasant.

In previous versions, the padded tongue was also criticized for being too rigid, so it is now more ergonomic while remaining comfortable. The flat laces are classic and don’t get in the way.

The heel counter, too, is soft and supportive around the ankle. When you put them on, you feel like you’re in slippers for optimum comfort. As some testers have pointed out, the emphasis is on comfort rather than performance.

The fit is, although not bad, could be closer to the foot. But there’s a fair amount of freedom for the foot to move, which is ideal for training and less for competition. It will also be appealing to runners with wide feet.

The Nike Vomero 17 also runs true to size (you can use your usual Nike size).

Traction

Another drawback raised about the last version was the outsole design, which used a single-piece high-abrasion rubber block.

While some found it very effective, it was too rigid for others. So, this time, the outsole rubber layer is separated into several parts with grooves. This makes for smoother rolling and greater flexibility.

Add to this the same grip with excellent traction on wet or dry roads. Hence, these Nike shoes can also be used on non-technical trails in nature.

Use

The Nike Vomero 17’s improved responsiveness means it can be used in a variety of ways. While previous versions were sometimes limited to moderate-pace runs, this one will respond when you accelerate. Despite this, I don’t consider it ideal for faster workouts such as tempo runs or interval training, and even less so for racing.

Testers noted that the Vomero 17 are effective training shoes, capable of accompanying runners on a daily basis. Its substantial cushioning makes it suitable for all distances and user profiles.

Quality and durability

The Nike Vomero 17 is one of those robust daily trainers that runners use for a long time. Its durable mesh and well-designed outsole ensure a long lifespan to accompany the runner over the usual 620 miles / 1,000 km.

Carbon footprint and animal welfare

We have no information on these points and have contacted the brand. At first glance, this Vomero is not vegan.

Conclusion

Nike has made several improvements to this new version of the Vomero. Without sacrificing comfort and cushioning. It’s more responsive and, therefore, more versatile.

Choose the Nike Vomero 17 update if you’re looking for an efficient, durable trainer offering good protection on asphalt. For speed training and competition, you might want to opt for more responsive models in your rotation.

Facts

Technical Specs

Terrain	Road
Pronation type	Neutral
Drop	10 mm
Heel height	39 mm
Forefoot height	29 mm
Weight (men)	269 g/9.5 oz
Weight (women)	243 g/8.6 oz
Features	Heavy runner, Rocker
Athletes
Release year	2023
Price	Check prices

Cushioning

Softness	Soft
Responsiveness	Medium

Technologies

Outsole	High-Abrasion Rubber, outsole pattner with small lugs
Midsole	ZoomX, Cushlon 3.0
Upper	Synthetic Mesh, Plush Heel and Tongue

Use

Speed	Slow, Moderate
Distance	Mid, 10K, Half marathon, Long, Marathon
Workout	Daily running

Comparisons

Nike Vomero 16

Several changes worth noting:

• Slight weight loss
• Higher and more pronounced rocker
• Zoom Air Pods replaced by Cushion foam
• Split rubber outsole for greater flexibility
• Lighter, more breathable upper

All these points justify turning to this new version with a more accomplished design than its predecessor.

Nike Pegasus 40

The Pegasus is a more popular and versatile model, offering more precise lockdown but less cushioning.