Overview of this review
Profile of the Nike Zoom Mamba 5
Use - The Nike Zoom Mamba 5 a track shoe that is specially designed for steeplechase events. The Mamba 5 features a unique construction that delivers reliable traction and consistent fit on wet surfaces, allowing the runner to maintain their speed during the event.
Spike Type - The shoe comes with six ¼-inch pyramid-type spikes that aim to provide maximum power, traction, and speed on the track. The spike pins that come with the Nike Mamba 5 are made with stainless steel, which allows sufficient grip on rubber track surfaces.
Spike Plate - A Pebax unit underneath the forefoot of the Zoom Mamba 5 track spike brings an ideal level of traction and responsiveness to the shoe. This feature is similarly seen in the Nike Zoom Rival S 9.
Updates to Nike Zoom Mamba 5
- The most notable change in the fifth edition of the Zoom Mamba is the removal of the carbon fiber plate. Instead, the spike plate is further lengthened to the midfoot area for added protection and maintained responsiveness.
- The Zoom Mamba 5 also features triangular “teeth,” which help with grip on wet surfaces.
- Meanwhile, the upper construction is mostly retained, with a mesh material still headlining in this version. The structure has proven effective in providing breathability and comfort in both wet and dry running conditions.
Size and fit
The Nike Zoom Mamba 5 is designed to be a unisex track spike. Thus, the size options are the same for both men and women. The shoe’s fit specifications fall under the standard of track spikes. These include narrow widths in the heel and toe box, a low midfoot volume, and a low toe box height. These dimensions ensure a secure fit, which is necessary for track and field events.
In addition, the Zoom Mamba 5 is built for neutral runners, which means its arch height is in the medium-to-high range.
Outsole
The Pebax spike plate of the Nike Zoom Mamba 5 offers the ideal level of traction and responsiveness. It also provides lightweight rigidity, as well as an increase in acceleration, power, and speed.
The outsole features a sharkskin pattern to deliver additional grip, therefore ensuring the runner stays grounded throughout the activity.
A total of six spike pins can be attached to the Pebax spike plate. This guarantees excellent traction and mobility, especially in the steeplechase events.
Midsole
A lightweight and bouncy Phylon midsole acts as the central component of the Nike Zoom Mamba 5’s midsole. The material provides responsive cushioning, which is especially helpful during footstrike. The Phylon is formed as a thin compression-molded foam and serves as a contoured platform. It keeps the shoe low to the ground while still offering adequate protection from impact.
The midsole of the Zoom Mamba 5 is designed to be resilient and feathery, sparing the joints as the foot goes along the hard tracks.
Upper
The mesh upper of the Nike Zoom Mamba 5 aims to ventilate the foot and drain the water accumulated during steeplechase events. The material is also designed to encase the foot in breathable comfort. The mesh is surrounded by perforations that enhance the airflow rate, thus contributing to a healthier foot environment. These perforations also give the shoe a clean and uniform aesthetic.
The overall structure of the upper is made from neoprene, which helps maintain optimal performance during wet conditions.
A minimal-style collar is also present in the track spike for a close, sock-like fit around the ankle.