Our verdict

The Vomero 17 marks a significant upgrade, shedding the Air unit for added ZoomX cushioning and slashing weight, firmly establishing itself as a premium Pegasus in Nike's lineup. We found it to be a steadfast companion that, while not standing out in any one area, consistently delivers in multiple distances and paces. We see potential for improvement in weight and fit, yet the overall durability and top-notch materials make it a solid recommendation especially for Nike enthusiasts.

Pros

  • Outstanding durability
  • More ZoomX cushioning than ever before
  • All-day comfort
  • Ideal for long-distance training
  • Top-notch material use
  • Can double as walking shoe
  • Truly a beefed-up Pegasus
  • Finally dips under 10 oz

Cons

  • Limited wet traction
  • Could benefit from more ZoomX
  • Possible heel slippage

Audience verdict

86
Good!
  • Top 5% most popular running shoes

Who should buy

We've put the Vomero 17 through its paces and we think it's a great choice for:

  • Pegasus fans ready to level up, as the Vomero 17 offers that premium experience you're craving with even more comfort and style.
  • Runners seeking a dependable, cushioned, and cozy daily trainer who don't mind investing a bit more for quality.
  • Those with fond memories of the Pegasus Turbo's dual-density midsole that can handle a tad more weight, as the Vomero 17's ZoomX top layer will not disappoint.

Nike Vomero 17

Who should NOT buy

We've thoroughly tested the Vomero 17 and, while it has its strengths, we believe there are better choices for those seeking the ultimate running experience.

The Vomero 17 lacks an exclusive ZoomX midsole, opting instead for a layer of Cushlon EVA-based foam at the bottom. For runners craving that hyper-plush, full ZoomX feel, we do not recommend the Vomero 17. Instead, Nike's Invincible 3, with a similar weight but a higher stack of pure ZoomX, might be a more fitting choice for you.

Nike Vomero 17

Furthermore, we think the Vomero 17 might not be the best pick for those accustomed to lighter footwear, especially given the current trend towards crafting taller yet lighter daily trainers.

If you're on the hunt for something lighter, we suggest not opting for the Vomero 17. The ASICS Novablast 4 offers a more budget-friendly alternative, while the ASICS Superblast stands out as a premium-and-pricier option with better energy return.

Breathability

The Vomero line has long stood as Nike's premium workhorse, synonymous with good ventilation. Our eye-catching smoke test confirmed this, revealing that the engineered mesh provides impressive airflow, earning a solid 4/5 rating from us.

This level of ventilation strikes a perfect balance between providing ample protection in colder months and ensuring breathability during warmer seasons.

Delving deeper, our light examination uncovered a very structured upper from the midfoot to the rear—designed with stability in focus—while the forefoot remains notably thinner for improved airflow.

Nike Vomero 17 microscope

Turning to the microscope, a lab favorite, we observed Nike's use of a sophisticated, dual-layer mesh with multiple ventilation holes.

Nike Vomero 17 ventilation hole

In our hands-on evaluation, we also found Nike's commitment to crafting a comfortable experience above everything else using a dual-layer upper, something that long-distance runners will appreciate. It's engineered mesh, yet so comfy that feels like knit!

Test results
Vomero 17 4
Average 3.8
Compared to 279 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Breathability
5

Durability

Toebox durability

Upon unboxing, one of the first things we noticed was the mesh used by Nike, which felt incredibly soft and gentle to us—a detail that often raises questions about durability.

We fired up the Dremel for its inaugural run with the Vomero 17, but certainly not its last. Our initial test revealed that the toebox held up impressively, securing a better-than-average 3/5 rating.

How did Nike manage this? As mentioned before in the breathability analysis, this Vomero boasts a multi-layered mesh that truly demonstrated its advantages here. While the outer white layer gave way, the inner green fabric resisted like a champion.

Nike Vomero 17 Toebox durability
Test results
Vomero 17 3
Average 2.5
Compared to 213 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Toebox durability
5

Heel padding durability

The heel padding is often a concern for runners in search of a reliable daily trainer, as it tends to wear out prematurely in some models, posing a significant issue.

However, this won't be a concern with the Vomero 17. Our tests showed that the heel padding outperformed even the toebox, securing an impressive 4/5 rating.

Nike Vomero 17 Heel padding durability
Test results
Vomero 17 4
Average 3.2
Compared to 209 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel padding durability
5

Outsole hardness

After evaluating the upper and heel, we shifted our focus to the outsole, undoubtedly a critical component for durability in any workhorse.

Nike Vomero 17 outsole
Bill Bowerman's iconic waffle outsole has been incorporated into the Vomero 17, now enhanced with additional grooves for better flexibility and water drainage.

Using our Shore C durometer, we measured the rubber at 88.5 HC, placing it on the harder end of the spectrum. This was expected in the lab, as the Vomero has always excelled in durability but often fell short in grip. However, it appears the trend is changing slightly, as we noticed improved traction compared to previous versions.

Nike Vomero 17 Outsole hardness
Test results
Vomero 17 88.5 HC
Average 80.0 HC
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 330 running shoes
Number of shoes
52.1 HC
Outsole hardness
93.0 HC

Outsole durability

We were eager to put the concrete-like rubber to the test with the Dremel. So, off we went!

Post-test, it was clear that the Vomero outsole is built like a tank, showing a minimal 0.4 mm indentation. While it may not offer the unmatched grip of a Continental outsole, its durability is phenomenal, and the traction on dry surfaces is really good.

Nike Vomero 17 Outsole durability
Test results
Vomero 17 0.4 mm
Average 1.0 mm
Compared to 191 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole wear
2.0 mm

Outsole thickness

If you're still worried about the outsole's durability, here's more good news—the 3.2 mm thickness significantly enhances overall durability.

Nike Vomero 17 outsole

In plain terms, we can't envision any runner wearing down this rubber, even on gravel roads, before the midsole gives out.

Nike Vomero 17 Outsole thickness
Test results
Vomero 17 3.2 mm
Average 3.2 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.0 mm
Outsole thickness
6.6 mm

Weight

The Nike Vomero line has historically catered to runners who prioritize comfort over weight. However, a lighter shoe benefits everyone, and we found that Nike's latest adjustments have brought the Vomero below the 10-oz barrier.

For a Vomero, this achievement is truly remarkable, and we can attest that the shoe feels lighter than any of its predecessors. Indeed, it tips the scales at just 9.9 oz (282g), marking a significant step in the right direction. Yet, there's still room for improvement!

Nike Vomero 17 Weight
Test results
Vomero 17 9.95 oz (282g)
Average 9.35 oz (265g)
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
5.26 oz (149g)
Weight
12.56 oz (356g)

Cushioning

Heel stack

This Vomero isn't just incredibly light; it's also the most stacked version yet.

Nike Vomero 17

With a 33.9 mm heel and large midsole sidewalls for extra stability, the shoe is better suited for heel strikers than ever before. However, we wouldn't classify it as a max-cushioned shoe by any means. As mentioned earlier, it remains a daily trainer, yet updated to the current trends.

Nike Vomero 17 Heel stack
Test results
Vomero 17 33.9 mm
Average 34.0 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Heel stack
46.3 mm

Forefoot stack

In the forefoot, we measured 26.2 mm, which differs from the brand's stated figures.

To sum up, following World Athletics' official guidelines, we got measurements of 33.9/26.2 mm, whereas Nike claims the Vomero 17 measures 39/29 mm.

Nike Vomero 17 Forefoot stack
Test results
Vomero 17 26.2 mm
Average 25.4 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
7.6 mm
Forefoot stack
37.1 mm

Drop

The actual heel-to-toe drop of the Vomero 17 is 7.7 mm, measured according to World Athletics standards. This marks one of the largest discrepancies we've encountered in a Nike shoe. Take the the Alphafly 3 for instance, which had a mere 0.5-mm difference.

This minor adjustment may slightly favor midfoot and forefoot strikers, but at 7.7 mm, it's very close to the 8 mm drop, widely known as the safe-bet-for-every-footstrike in the world of running.

Nike Vomero 17 Drop
Test results
Vomero 17 7.7 mm
Average 8.6 mm
Compared to 349 running shoes
Number of shoes
-0.8 mm
Drop
16.1 mm

Insole thickness

The insole is of average thickness at 4.4 mm, making it feel similar to many other shoes on the market. It's crafted from a soft foam, adding to the shoe's plush ride.

Nike Vomero 17 Insole thickness
Test results
Vomero 17 4.2 mm
Average 4.5 mm
Compared to 345 running shoes
Number of shoes
1.5 mm
Insole thickness
7.3 mm

Midsole softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The most significant improvement in the Vomero 17 is in the midsole. Nike has finally placed a substantial layer of ZoomX right underfoot, making it exceptionally plush. Our Shore A durometer showed a reading of just 11.9 HA, one of the softest we've ever recorded in the lab.

This means the Vomero 17, which also ditched away from the Air unit, is now more responsive than before, boasting a full-length segment of top-notch, Pebax-based ZoomX foam.

Nike Vomero 17 Midsole softness
Test results
Vomero 17 11.9 HA
Average 20.9 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.
Compared to 277 running shoes
Number of shoes
8.5 HA
Midsole softness (soft to firm)
41.5 HA

Secondary foam softness

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

The Vomero 17 still doesn't offer the full ZoomX experience, likely because Nike reserves that for their pricier model, the Invincible. This is why they've also incorporated a firmer foam at 22.0 HA that's closer to the ground, aiming to enhance stability. And it does.

Nike Vomero 17 dual foam

However, at a $160 price point, we anticipated a more advanced foam in the lower midsole.

Cushlon 3.0 isn't terrible, but it's essentially standard EVA, although better than the previous SR-02. Had Nike utilized a superior secondary compound like ReactX, the Vomero could have offered much better energy return.

Nike Vomero 17 Secondary foam softness
Test results
Vomero 17 22.0 HA
Average 24.0 HA
We use an average of four tests. The photo shows one of those tests.

Midsole softness in cold (%)

Note: a low durometer measurement equals a soft material, whereas a high measurement means it's firm.

Being made from Pebax, we'd expect ZoomX foam to excel in cold conditions, and our tests confirmed just that. After a 20-minute nap in the freezer, we saw a mere 4.1% difference in softness, showcasing truly impressive resilience.

Nike Vomero 17 Difference in midsole softness in cold
Test results
Vomero 17 4.1%
Average 25.5%
Compared to 276 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Midsole softness in cold
100%

Stability

Lateral stability test

Positioned as a high-end Pegasus, we're certainly discussing a neutral running shoe. Yet, it also offers slightly better stability than the standard Peg.

This improvement comes from the dual-midsole setup, complemented by midsole sidewalls in the heel, offering guidance that might be enough for those with minor pronation issues. However, it's not on par with mild-stability shoes like the ASICS GT 2000 12 by any means.

In our view, the Vomero 17 is ideal for pure neutral runners or those seeking a touch of guidance while maintaining a neutral gait.

Torsional rigidity

In terms of how stiff the shoe twists and bends, it's pretty average with a score of 3 out of 5, which is what we expect from a versatile shoe. This helps make the ride feel stable for neutral runners.

Test results
Vomero 17 3
Average 3.3
Compared to 328 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Torsional rigidity
5

Heel counter stiffness

The heel counter also aims for moderate stiffness at 3/5.

We found it comfortable and not bothersome, though we noticed a bit of heel slippage. We quickly fixed this by stopping and tying a runner's knot.

Test results
Vomero 17 3
Average 2.8
Compared to 312 running shoes
Number of shoes
1
Heel counter stiffness
5

Midsole width - forefoot

Adding to the stable ride is the midsole width, which is a bit wider than we expected for a daily running shoe. We measured it at 115.2 mm with our calipers.

Nike Vomero 17 Midsole width in the forefoot
Test results
Vomero 17 115.2 mm
Average 114.1 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
100.5 mm
Midsole width - forefoot
127.9 mm

Midsole width - heel

The heel, at 92.5 mm, is about average or maybe a bit wide. We think it can be described either way. Anyway, we found it provides enough support for neutral runners who are heel strikers.

Nike Vomero 17 Midsole width in the heel
Test results
Vomero 17 92.5 mm
Average 90.7 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
74.9 mm
Midsole width - heel
106.6 mm

Flexibility

Stiffness

Being a versatile shoe means the shoe must excel at various activities—not just running, but also serving well for gym workouts, dog walking, or even an all-day city exploration.

For these uses, having a bit of longitudinal flexibility is crucial, unlike the stiffer design often preferred in competition shoes. This flexibility can also help strengthen foot muscles, potentially enhancing performance later on.

Nike Vomero 17

The great news is that the Vomero 17, with its plush midsole and strategically placed outsole cutouts, requires only 18.7N to bend to the desired degree. That's impressively low and adds to the shoe's versatility!

Test results
Vomero 17 18.7N
Average 28.6N
We use an average of four tests. The video shows one of those tests.
Compared to 332 running shoes
Number of shoes
2.2N
Stiffness
94.4N

Stiffness in cold (%)

We did the 20-minute freezer test again to see how stiff the shoe gets in really cold weather.

Afterward, bending the shoe only required 20.6N of force, which is 10.2% more. Pretty impressive!

Test results
Vomero 17 10.2%
Average 34.1%
Compared to 332 running shoes
Number of shoes
0%
Stiffness in cold
148%

Size and fit

Toebox width - widest part

Nike has long been known for making snug-fitting uppers, but the trend is shifting in recent models, and that deserves our applause.

Nike Vomero 17 toebox

The Vomero 17 is further evidence of this change, boasting 99.2 mm in the widest part of the toebox. That's definitely on the spacious side!

Nike Vomero 17 Toebox width at the widest part
Test results
Vomero 17 99.2 mm
Average 98.4 mm
Compared to 350 running shoes
Number of shoes
89.5 mm
Toebox width - widest part
109.1 mm

Toebox width - big toe

We took a second measurement to gauge the toebox's taper, and discovered it remains comfortably spacious for most feet at 78.3 mm.

We found the toebox has decent vertical space, but it's nothing out of the ordinary.

This additional measurement is crucial for us, setting our testing apart from the norm. Simply measuring the toebox's widest point only reveals a fraction of the story...

Nike Vomero 17 Toebox width at the big toe
Test results
Vomero 17 78.3 mm
Average 78.3 mm
Compared to 224 running shoes
Number of shoes
60.4 mm
Toebox width - big toe
92.5 mm

Tongue: gusset type

The tongue stays perfectly in place, not shifting side to side, no matter the pace, since it's fully gusseted to the sides.

This is precisely the high-quality feature we anticipate in a premium-priced shoe, so kudos to Nike for getting it right this time.

Nike Vomero 17 Tongue: gusset type
Test results
Vomero 17 Both sides (full)

Comfort

Tongue padding

The tongue is another area where Nike trimmed some weight off the Vomero. Now it sports a 4.9 mm cushion, which is pretty decent and we found it comfortable enough for long runs.

Nike Vomero 17 tongue

Nevertheless, if you're all about super-padded tongues, this might not be your best pick. Maybe give the Brooks Ghost Max a look instead—it's got a 8.5-mm tongue.

Nike Vomero 17 Tongue padding
Test results
Vomero 17 4.9 mm
Average 5.8 mm
Compared to 347 running shoes
Number of shoes
0.5 mm
Tongue padding
14.2 mm

Heel tab

The Vomero 17 doesn't feature a heel tab, but Nike threw in a tiny piece with the logo. However, you can't use it as a pull tab, even if you've got super-small fingers.

Nike Vomero 17 Heel tab
Test results
Vomero 17 None

Removable insole

The insole is removable and has a standard shape, meaning you can easily swap it out for third-party orthotics or better insoles from other shoes.

Nike Vomero 17 Removable insole
Test results
Vomero 17 Yes

Misc

Reflective elements

When a brand asks us to pay a premium for a daily trainer, we expect top-tier features. Thankfully, the Vomero 17 delivers, boasting reflective elements for enhanced safety.

These reflective dots felt familiar to us in the lab—they are the same Nike utilized in the forefoot of the trail-racing Nike Ultrafly!

Test results
Vomero 17 Yes