Verdict from 4 experts and 5 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Upper comfort: Considered by all reviewers as the "highlight" of the Vomero 15, the upper has a soft and plush wrap around the foot.
- Durability: Even after 100 km of run, the shoe has minimal signs of wear.
- Stability: Runners claim that the shoe generates surefooted steps. This is all owed to its raised side rails, built-up arch, and wide midsole base.
- Toe box: It has a good volume that the toes can splay naturally.
- Heel hold: The "copious amount" of collar padding clutches the heel. It's not restrictive but it's snug enough that there are no reports of heel slips.
- Responsiveness: Some noticed that the Air Zoom units spring back quickly. According to them, it provides a "springy sensation" during toe-off.
5 reasons not to buy
- Rigid ride: "Less than expected." This is how reviewers sum up their thoughts on the Vomero 15's bounce and softness. For reference, it's harsher than the ride of the Zoom Fly 3 and is almost as firm as the Pegasus 37.
- Slow: In comparison to the Pegasus 37, the Vomero 15 simply lags in speed. This is due to its more flexible forefoot, sacrificing a snappy toe-off.
- Bulky: As runners put it, it's a "heavy weight on the foot." So much so that its heft hinders fast strides.
- Warm: Experts say that the Nike Vomero 15 is not the most breathable, and the padding results in a warm upper. It also absorbs moisture and is not recommended for those who live in tropical conditions.
- Thin tongue: This results in a folded tongue while running. Should it have been more padded, this wouldn't have been the case, runners say.
Bottom line
The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 15 is everything that the Vomero collection isn't. Known as a lineup of Nike's most cushioned neutral trainers, the Vomero 15 sits on the opposite end with its more traditional-feeling ride. Given this, it's ultimately a shoe that's well-suited for easy, relaxed runs and is a big no-no for fast-paced and long-distance endeavors.
Tip: see the best running shoes.
Expert reviews:
- 84/100 by Road Trail Run
- 82/100 by Keller Sports
Video reviews
Nike Vomero 15 vs 14: Should I upgrade?
The most prominent updates featured by the Air Zoom Vomero 15 are the new ZoomX midsole, re-engineered upper, and added rubber on the outsole. Here are some of the experts' thoughts on these changes:
What got better
- Plusher wrap
- Stable ride
- Better grip
What got worse
- Stiffer underfoot feel
- Less in-shoe ventilation
To cut to the chase, only upgrade to the Vomero 15 if you want a softer version of the Vomero 14's upper with a better heel lock. If you're looking for daily trainers with better cushioning, the more fitting options are the Asics GlideRide and the Saucony Endorphin Shift.
Nike Air Zoom Vomero 15: What is it for?
The Vomeros are generally designed as cushioned daily running shoes and the series' 15th iteration does just that. With its durable outsole, you can make it a part of your shoe rotation for recovery runs and other mellow runs.
How Air Zoom Vomero 15 compares
