
NikeVaporfly 4
Backed by ZoomX superfoam and an optimized Flyplate geometry, the Vaporfly 4 delivers effortless propulsion across distances from 26.2 to fast 5Ks. Light, responsive, and remarkably versatile, it remains Nike’s definitive race-day weapon for runners chasing breakthrough speed.
Details
The Nike Vaporfly 4 represents the pinnacle of marathon racing design, refined to deliver unparalleled speed, propulsion, and distance versatility. Among Nike’s elite trio (Alphafly, Vaporfly, Streakfly), the Vaporfly remains the most adaptable—engineered to excel from the full marathon down to the 10K, yet responsive enough for 5K efforts, mile races, and high-intensity repeats.
This update brings a holistic redesign centered on efficiency and weight reduction. By strategically trimming excess foam, the Vaporfly 4 amplifies the performance of its legendary ZoomX superfoam, unlocking a lighter platform with even sharper rebound. The curved carbon Flyplate now sits at a steeper angle, increasing leverage through toe-off for smoother, more forceful propulsion with less energy cost over time.
Underfoot, a revised blown rubber waffle outsole enhances traction while softening transition points, creating a balanced interface of grip, cushioning, and durability on race surfaces. The engineered mesh upper further reduces total weight while improving consistency of fit, breathability, and lockdown across a range of foot shapes.
From world-major pursuits to local PR hunts, the Vaporfly 4 stands as one of the most trusted and celebrated racing platforms ever produced—pro-caliber performance, but tuned for every runner ready to toe a line.
MIDSOLE
- ZoomX is Nike's highest-level PEBA superfoam, a featherweight compound with supreme energy return.
- Flyplate is a full-length, carbon fiber, curved plate with an increased angle, delivering propulsive pop with every foot strike and toe-off.
OUTSOLE
- Blown rubber has been softened for a balance of durability and softer stickier grip from the waffle pattern tread.
UPPER
- Racing engineered mesh creates secure comfort with minimum weight.
Researched and compiled by Mark Shannon
Specifications may be manufacturer-reported. Learn how Cadence verifies shoe data.
Specifications
Cadence Database Analysis
How the Nike Vaporfly 4 compares with 28 current Super Shoes / Race shoes tracked by Cadence.
Comparisons use listed specifications tracked by Cadence. Manufacturer reference sizes and measurement methods can vary. Learn about our data methodology.
Where It Fits
- Cushioning
- High
- Listed weight
- Notably light for category
- Stack
- Notably low for category
- Price
- Typical price for category
- Drop
- Typical for category
- Plate
- Yes
- Group
- Super Shoes / Race
Compared With Super Shoes / Race
| Metric | Vaporfly 4 | Group median | Position |
|---|---|---|---|
| Listed weight | 5.9oz | 6.75oz | Lighter (30th percentile) |
| Heel stack | 36mm | 40mm | Lower (23rd percentile) |
| Forefoot stack | 30mm | 33.5mm | Lower (25th percentile) |
| Drop | 6mm | 6mm | Typical (55th percentile) |
| Price | $270 | $270 | Typical range (48th percentile) |
What Stands Out
- Its 36mm heel stack is 4.0mm below the current Super Shoes / Race median of 40mm (n=28).
- Its 30mm forefoot stack is 3.5mm below the current Super Shoes / Race median of 33.5mm (n=28).
- At 5.9 oz, its listed weight is 0.8 oz below the median of the 28 current Super Shoes / Race shoes in the Cadence database (6.75 oz).


