Taking the best and making it better – that’s what Nike do. And as testament to that statement, the Swoosh has unveiled the ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%, which has been revamped from toe to heel to incorporate suggested upgrades from Nike’s world champion runners, improving on what went before to provide the brand's fastest shoe ever. And it's all wrapped up in a look that's reminiscent of old Mercurials gone by. Yes please...
When Nike launched the Nike Zoom Vaporfly 4%, the shoe delivered an average of 4 percent improved running economy over Nike’s previous fastest marathon shoe. The upgrade to NEXT% represents looking forward to each new challenge as an opportunity to be faster and stronger; to improve. Because, as Mo Farah recently said, “As an athlete, you’re always looking for that next percent.” Get it now? Good.
The ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT%’s upgrades include a Vaporweave-constructed upper that’s more breathable and less absorbent than Flyknit, as well as a re-tooled midsole with added Nike ZoomX foam and a redesigned track pattern, suggested by Kipchoge after running in wet conditions.
Along with the new features, the ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% retains many of the stand out features of its predecessor, including the full-length curved carbon fibre plate, embedded within the foam to increase propulsion. Keeping what works, and tweaking what doesn't. Simple as that.
From an aesthetic perspective, it features an over-sized Swoosh running right down the upper and onto the forefoot, instantly conjuring fond memories of past Mercurials and Hypervenoms. So if you're eyeing some extra miles in the off-season in an attempt to keep up your fitness and alleviate the hideousness of pre-season just a tad (we’ve all been there), then the NEXT%, with its extra efficiency boost, is a decent shout.
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly NEXT% will be available from April 25 in London, before releasing through the Nike Run Club app on April 28.
