The original VaporFly NEXT%, launched in the mid-2010s, revolutionized marathon racing by introducing the concept of a “super shoe”, combining a carbon fiber plate with responsive foam to boost running efficiency.

Before 2016, marathon racers relied on minimalistic, lightweight shoes. However, after Nike athletes like Eliud Kipchoge demonstrated the effectiveness of the VaporFly and AlphaFly lines, competitors raced to develop their own super shoes featuring carbon fiber plates and thick, responsive midsoles under the 40mm World Athletics stack height limit. Now, in 2025, the Nike Vaporfly 4 continues this legacy.

About the Nike Vaporfly 4

The Nike VaporFly 4 boasts a lighter, more dynamic design, trimming weight across the upper, midsole, and outsole without compromising performance. The shoe weighs about 6.7 ounces (190 grams) for a men’s size 10, making it one of the lightest in its class, though still heavier than some competitors like the adidas Adizero Adios Pro Evo 2.

While the original VaporFly was Nike’s flagship marathon shoe, it has been gradually replaced at the elite level by the AlphaFly series. Still, the VaporFly 2 proved its effectiveness in marathon races, and the VaporFly 4 is poised to make a comeback in major races this year. Its design appears more streamlined and faster than the previous model, with a “Prototype” colorway paying tribute to the rigorous testing process behind its development.

Key technical features include a full-length carbon fiber FlyPlate set at a steeper angle than in the VaporFly 3, paired with a lower heel-to-toe drop of 6 millimeters to enhance the underfoot feel and propulsion. The ZoomX foam midsole offers the same high energy return as the AlphaFly 3 but with lighter cushioning due to refined sculpting and cutouts. The outsole uses a thinner rubber compound in the forefoot for better grip and reduced weight, while protective elements flank the ZoomX foam under the heel, though the shoe is less suited for heel strikers.

The upper has shifted from Flyknit to a new engineered mesh, designed for improved breathability, comfort, and a barely-there feel. Weight savings also come from a slimmer tongue and heel padding, which still provide adequate support for longer distances.

Release Details

The Nike VaporFly 4 has already appeared at various races, notably worn by Japanese runners, and was released globally on 14 March 2025 with additional colorways following on 24 April. Pairs are priced at US$260 and are available in both men’s and women’s sizes.

Source: House of Heatº

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