The Nike Vaporfly 4 is here, and it’s noticeably different. This version takes a step back from the towering stacks we’ve seen in recent years and instead focuses on control, turnover, and a more natural, ground-connected feel. It’s still unmistakably a racing shoe, but Nike seems to have rethought what speed really feels like. The Vaporfly 4 is lighter, lower, and more nimble. For runners who’ve felt overwhelmed by the supershoe revolution, this might be the breath of fresh air they were waiting for. For those who miss the original Vaporfly, you may be happy with the fourth version.
For me, I liked the original Vaporfly. I ran pretty well in it, and my last PR was in that shoe. The next few versions of the Vaporfly just haven’t worked for me. The angle of the plate, the heel cup…I’ve gotten injured, and I’ve pretty much given up. I got injured in the second version due to the heel counter, and the third version felt like a daily trainer to me… at no point did I feel fast in that shoe.
Why do I still even review the Vaporfly? People who are considering the shoe know they want it or they don’t. They aren’t taking my opinion really into account. Plus, as we know, every foot is different, and people like different shoes. What works for me may not work for you, and what works for you may not work for me.
But anyway, before trying the Nike Vaporfly 4 I had a few questions:
- Has the Nike Vaporfly 4 gotten a big update? Yes. I won’t lie to you, it’s going to feel a lot different than previous models. Although it seems like every version of the Vaporfly is diffferent. The Vaporfly 4 feels most like the Vaporfly 1.
- Does the Nike Vaporfly 4 fit true to size? It is one of the truer to size fitting racing shoes out there. Even from Nike. Is it perfect? No, but it’s not bad.
- Is the Nike Vaporfly 4 fast? Yes it’s definitely one of Nike’s fastest racing shoes out there.
Quick Facts
Weight: 5.3 oz (W), 6 oz (M)
Stack Height: 35mm heel / 29mm forefoot
Drop: 6mm
Price: $260
Now let’s get into an honest review of the Nike Vaporfly 4.
Nike Vaporfly 4 Upper and Fit
The Vaporfly 4’s upper is streamlined and race-ready. It uses a new engineered mesh that is breathable yet more secure than the perforated material used in the VF3. As long as the Vaporfly fit never goes back to the second version, I’m happy. It wraps the foot with a snug, sock-like feel and a more structured forefoot. There’s a subtle toe bumper that helps prevent the upper from collapsing onto your toes… something that’s much appreciated during fast-paced efforts.
Fit-wise, it runs true to size, but it’s definitely narrow…especially through the midfoot…but it’s not as narrow as the Streakfly 2. Lockdown is strong, and Nike’s updated lacing system works well to hold the foot in place. The tongue is made from the same mesh and doesn’t shift during hard efforts. Padding around the heel collar strikes a nice balance between support and minimalism. It’s not as rigid as the second version.
This version also ditches the exaggerated heel flare from earlier models, which improves the step-in experience and reduces bulk. I’m actually surprised they did this because that feels like a Vaporfly staple.
In running shoes, I wear between a women’s size 10–11 wide and found the size 11 to be the best fit. It fits wider than the Streakfly 2, but it’s not wide. In all, it’s one of the more comfortable versions of the Vaporfly, and I don’t feel like it’s a burden to put on my feet.
Nike Vaporfly 4 Ride
ZoomX remains the highlight here, but the geometry has been revised. With a 5mm lower heel and a slightly reduced drop, the Vaporfly 4 puts you closer to the ground while still delivering the energy return you expect. This is a pretty big update to the Vaporfly series and something you need to consider before just trying them in a race. The carbon Flyplate adds stiffness and pop, but this time the ride feels more stable and intentional.
What really stands out is how well the shoe performs at fast paces. Once you’re rolling at 5K or 10K pace, the shoe comes alive…snappy, smooth, and forward-driving. The rocker isn’t as aggressive as in earlier models, but that actually makes transitions feel more natural. Honestly, I just like it way better. If you’re used to high-stack, bounce-heavy supershoes, this may feel a bit firmer or more connected to the road, especially at slower speeds.
Nike also trimmed the midfoot width by 5mm, which contributes to the faster turnover but can create some instability for heel strikers or runners with less efficient mechanics.
Where does the Nike Vaporfly 4 fit into my rotation? Like any carbon-plated shoe, it’s a workout and race day shoe. I must admit, this is my favorite version since the first version and feels pretty similar, but just a bit more modern. It’s a full-circle moment.
My first run in it felt pretty good. I noticed it was fairly firm (although I have been using more soft shoes lately). I was able to pick up the pace to race pace with no major hinderance and it’s felt way faster than the third version. So far I’ve been really happy with it.
Outsole
Nike didn’t overbuild the outsole here, and that’s on purpose. The rear has two small rubber crash pads flanking the heel, while the forefoot has full rubber coverage for durability and grip. The exposed midsole foam through the midfoot helps reduce weight but might wear down quickly. I understand why brands keep exposed midsole to keep it lighter, but it doesn’t mean I’m not annoyed by it. I want a durable shoe. Alas, the Nike Vaporfly 4 foam will probably compress before you wear down the outsole.
Traction is solid for wet and dry roads, though sharp turns at high speeds may highlight the narrower platform. Have you ever seen a race where someone is wearing the Vaporfly and takes a tight corner? This isn’t a shoe you’ll want to take onto gravel or trail…it’s going to wreck the outsole.
As far as durability goes, it’s not built to last forever, and like most carbon-plated models, it will last about 100 miles.
Nike Vaporfly 4 Conclusion
The Nike Vaporfly 4 feels like a nod to the original Vaporfly, but with refinements for modern racing needs. It’s lighter, more agile, and works best at faster paces. It won’t be everyone’s go-to marathon shoe, but if you miss the original Vaporfly, you may appreciate this version.
Who Should Buy the Nike Vaporfly 4
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Runners looking for a lighter weight race shoe
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Those who prefer a lower stack and more ground feel in a plated shoe
Who Should Not Buy the Nike Vaporfly 4
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Those who suffer from hamstring problems…this may feel risky
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Runners with wide feet…this fit is snug, especially in the midfoot
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Anyone hoping to use this as a high-mileage trainer
My Current Shoe Rotation:
Easy/Daily Runs: Mizuno Neo Zen, Topo Magnifly 5, Antepes Muscle Runners, New Balance 1080v13 Shoe Review , Newton Gravity 12, ASICS Superblast 2
Speed Work: 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0 Nike Tempo Next%, Reebok Float Ride Run fast Pro, Nike ZoomX Streakfly, Nike Alphafly 3
Long Runs: Topo Specter 2, 361 Degrees Eleos Shoe Review
Trail Running/Hiking: 361 Futura, Hoka Tecton X2 Shoe Review Speedland SL: PDX,
Races: 361 Degrees Furious Future 2.0, ASICS Metaspeed Edge Paris, New Balance Fuelcell 5280, Reebok Run fast Pro ,Nike Vaporfly 3 ,
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Questions for you:
Have you tried the Vaporfly?
What is your favorite race shoe?