Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 Review (2023)
The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 combines stability and softness for your daily runs. This new version has an even softer upper for more comfort.
Consensus
Discover the latest version released in 2023: Nike Vomero 17!
Even though the Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 is a neutral shoe, it has a long tradition of stability that goes back to the collection’s origins. This new version takes the same configuration as the Vomero 15 with an improved upper.
When it comes to cushioning, we find the combination of ZoomX foam and Air Zoom pocket under the forefoot. The underfoot feel is soft, even if some testers note that the cushioning is a bit thin under the toes. Overall, the Vomero 16 is still suitable for long runs. The ride is not very responsive but comfortable and stable. The heel stack is 30 mm under the heel with a heel-to-toe drop of 10 mm.
The new upper is softer for a relaxed and comfortable foot lockdown. The panels on either side of the foot help balance this flexibility. Also, there’s a TPU clip at the base of the heel counter to help stabilize the foot while running. The new padded tongue cradles the foot and stays put. All in all, testers note that this is one of the most comfortable uppers they’ve tested!
Finally, the Vomero 16 features a full abrasion-resistant rubber outsole for durability and traction.
In summary, if you liked the Vomero 15, you’ll love the 16. Softer than the Pegasus and more stable than the Invincible Run, it’s an essential option in the Nike collection. It’s a good choice for athletes looking for stable and durable shoes for daily training.
Please read our full review of the Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 for more information.
- Soft and comfortable cushioning
- Stable ride
- Sturdy shoe
- New softer upper
- Good overall versatility
- Not a very responsive ride
- Still a bit heavy (no change since the previous version)
Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 Complete Review Analysis
Introduction
Formerly part of Nike’s stability range (for overpronation), the Vomero has been positioned as a neutral shoe offering good stability for a few years now.
Its highlights are its durability and its powerful chassis, particularly suited for heavier runners.
So what does this version 16 (2021) have in store for us? At first glance, the changes are modest compared to version 15, but there are still some significant improvements. Let’s go over it!
Cushioning
ZoomX foam, Zoom Air unit
The midsole remains almost identical to the previous model. We find Nike’s ‘super foam,’ ZoomX, backed up by a Zoom Air unit under the forefoot.
The stack is 30 mm high under the heel and 20 mm under the forefoot (the drop is 10 mm). Taking into account the insole, we get 33 mm/23 mm. The key takeaway is that the Vomero 16 is one of the Nike shoes with the most cushion.
The underfoot feel is soft overall. The foam is comfortable and gives good shock absorption. Unlike the Pegasus, which uses Zoom Air for more energy return, the Vomero uses it for more cushion.
However, some testers note that the forefoot cushion feels slightly thin compared to the heel, which may not be comfortable for everyone.
Finally, let’s note that the platform is wide and, therefore, quite stable. It’s rare enough for shoes with soft cushioning to be worth mentioning!
Foot lockdown (upper)
Engineered mesh, midfoot cage
It’s the part of the Vomero 16 that changes the most compared to the previous model. The engineered mesh looks very similar to last year’s edition. However, according to the testers, it’s softer and much more comfortable.
On the other hand, the tongue is padded for more comfort on the top of the foot. The collar is also thick, but testers note that it’s not as plush as it looks.
Overall, runners note that the lockdown is more about comfort than performance. The upper is soft and supple without being sloppy to give the foot enough freedom of movement.
Next, although the Vomero is officially a neutral shoe, it retains an inherently stable configuration, inherited from the first versions.
As such, there’s a TPU clip at the base of the internal heel counter. Its purpose is to better lock in the foot to stabilize the ride of the runner. There are also lateral midfoot panels to guide and fasten the foot in the shoe for extra support.
Grip and durability
Resistant rubber
It’s one of the main strengths of the Air Zoom Vomero: its durability. For this, Nike doesn’t skimp on the high-abrasion rubber (it makes up the entire outsole).
This configuration doesn’t help with the weight: the scale indicates 10.3 oz/292 g (same as last year). Without making it overly bulky, we can’t say that it’s a lightweight shoe either!
According to the testers, this robust configuration allows you to pile up the miles without fearing premature wear. Even after 80 mi/120 km, the sole remains intact as if you had just taken it out of its box. It makes it a good value for money, provided you find the shoe on sale because the base retail price of $150 stings a little.
Finally, the traction is very effective, both on dry and wet surfaces.
The Ride
Let’s say it right away; the Nike Vomero 16 is far from being the most responsive shoe in the Nike collection. Comfortable? Yes. Stable? Definitely. Soft? Pretty much.
So it offers a dependable and steady ride with smooth transitions, ideal for long runs and classic daily training. The high-stack cushioning means you can run far at a moderate pace. The testers also recommend it for recovery runs.
Conclusion
The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 is a good shoe for neutral runners (and potentially overpronators) that offers a stable and smooth ride for long distances and daily workouts.
While it’s not Nike’s most exciting shoe, it’s reliable and comfortable with its sturdy and flexible design.
Not convinced? Check out our comparisons to see if another model is more suitable for you.
Facts
Technical Specs
| Terrain | Road |
| Pronation type | Neutral |
| Drop | 10 mm |
| Heel stack height | 30 mm |
| Forefoot stack height | 20 mm |
| Weight (men) | 292 g/10.3 oz |
| Weight (women) | 252 g/8.9 oz |
| Features | Heavy runners |
| Release year | 2021 |
Cushioning
| Softness (1-5) | 4 – Soft |
| Bounce (1-5) | 2 – Low |
Technologies
| Outsole | Rubber |
| Midsole | Zoom Air, ZoomX |
| Upper | Engineered Mesh |
Use
| Speed | Slow, moderate |
| Distance | Mid, long, 10k, half marathon, marathon |
| Workout | Daily runs, recovery |
Comparisons – Nike Air Zoom Vomero 16 vs.:
Nike Air Zoom Vomero 15
There are not many changes from one model to another. After all, the15 marked a significant overhaul in the series, especially with the state-of-the-art ZoomX foam.
Consequently, the outsole and midsole are almost identical. The weight also remains the same save for a few grams.
The main change is in the upper. The testers found it more comfortable because of its greater flexibility. Runners also welcomed the new thicker tongue, which is more comfortable and makes it easier to adjust the lacing pressure.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 38
See the detailed side-by-side comparison with our comments.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Testers confirm that this shoe fits true to size. Therefore, you can pick up your regular size.
Yes, this model is comfortable to run with its soft cushioning and stable ride.
The Vomero 16 is officially a neutral shoe, but it’s naturally stable with its wide platform that gently guides the foot. We suggest that you give it a try if you overpronate.
