Nike Vaporfly 4

The Nike Vaporfly 4 arrives as the lightest Nike racer to date, at just 181 g in a men's size. Following the success of the Vaporfly Next% 3, this fourth edition cuts weight by 13% while keeping the essence that made it a benchmark: a ZoomX midsole with impressive energy return and a FlyPlate carbon plate with a steeper angle for an explosive toe-off. The engineered mesh upper is more breathable and the fit snugger, while the outsole, with blown rubber in strategic areas, ensures grip in the dry. Ideal for 5K, 10K and half marathon, where its lightness and responsiveness shine.

The key evolution is the weight reduction without sacrificing responsiveness. The ZoomX midsole keeps its reputation as a "cloud with snap", but now with a firmer secondary layer that improves durability. With 35 mm at the heel and 29 mm at the forefoot (6 mm heel-to-toe drop), the stack height stays within the World Athletics limit but with a lower, more stable feel than the Next% 3. The latest-generation FlyKnit upper fits like a glove, with ventilation optimised by zone. Compared with the Alphafly 3, it loses the forefoot Air Pod but gains lightness and agility for shorter distances.

On the road, the Vaporfly 4 is a personal-best machine. The combination of ZoomX and Flyplate generates a mechanical push that reduces the effort at fast paces. Those who have tried it report significant time drops over 5K and 10K without extra effort, a kind of "technological doping", but no one is judging here. Stability improves thanks to a wider forefoot, although the narrow heel can cause slight slipping at top speed (easily fixed with a heel lock lacing). It is not recommended for a full marathon, as the cushioning can fall a little short, nor for daily training. Durability is limited to 30–50 km, typical of racers, which makes you think twice about whether the investment is worth it. Compared with rivals such as the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 4, it wins on lightness but gives up some cushioning.