Who do you love more dad or mom? That must be the question they asked themselves at Nike when they had to make the decision whether to give the top cushioning spotlight for 2025 to the Vomero or to the Invincible line. And it looks like Vomero has, for the time being, won the day. The Nike Vomero 18 is going to be the big bet for maximum cushioning and comfort for this coming year. And what about the Invincible? At The Running Event, the most important event in the running and trail footwear industry, we could hear that the Invincible line was going to be paused. So it looks like the Vomero is cool again for the American brand and at RUNNEA we are going to compare the 2 models so that you can choose the one you like the most.
But is there really a winner? Has the Invincible lost prominence or has Nike simply wanted to diversify their offer? Let's analyze it....
Nike Invincible 3 vs. Nike Vomero 18: a duel between cushioning and responsiveness
With Invincible, Nike wanted to create the "all-in-one". A shoe with a very generous cushioning, but able to offer responsiveness in every stride, covering from long workouts to series at fast paces. For its part, the Vomero has always been clear: its focus is to provide the maximum possible comfort and safety, without worrying too much about agility. Two different philosophies in the search for maximum cushioning within the same brand. Is there a market for both? Which one suits you best?
Nike Invincible 3: the attempt to make "the ultimate shoe ".
When Nike launched the Invincible line, they were looking to fill an important gap: a running shoe with maximum cushioning, but that didn't feel heavy or clunky. And with an attractive design, with ZoomX foam as the main protagonist (the same foam found in their competition models like the Vaporfly). The Invincible promises softness, reactivity and comfort for any kind of running.
Key points of the Invincible 3:
Optimized ZoomX foam: cushioning and responsiveness.
In this third version, Nike has increased the amount of ZoomX in the midsole, resulting in an even more cushioned, but also more responsive ride. In addition, the geometry of the sole has changed: it is now wider at the base, which improves stability, a weak point in previous versions.
A revamped Flyknit upper
The upper is lighter and more breathable, but maintains support at key points of the foot. This ensures the foot stays comfortable and better supported, even during long runs.
Who the Nike Invincible 3 is for
Although the main focus of the Invincible 3 is long runs at medium paces, their responsiveness allows them to be used for faster sessions. They are not racing shoes, but if one day you decide to push it, they will respond.
- Runners who prioritize comfort but don't want to give up some responsiveness.
- Heavy runners who need generous but not too soft cushioning.
- Perfect for daily training and long runs, but with room to adapt to faster workouts.
Why haven't they triumphed?
Some of us think that a shoe with maximum cushioning has to cushion, it has to offer a lot of comfort but it also has to guarantee support and protection. The Invincible may perhaps err on the side of not providing enough support in the heel area. It's not the most comfortable, it's certainly not the fastest, it's not cheap and it's not the safest, although it passes with flying colors in 3 of the parameters. That's probably not enough for the marking, nor for Nike.
Nike Vomero 18: comfort as a flag
If we talk about cushioning and comfort, Vomero has always been a reference. But it is true that from version 14 onwards, the line has been losing steam. It was conceived as an "old-fashioned" shoe, far from the new maximalist trends. But the Nike Vomero 18 seeks to recover the essence of the model, but adapting it to the current times. With a dual-layer cushioning configuration that combines ZoomX foam throughout the midsole and ReactX at strategic points, increased height and new designs.
Key points of the Vomero 18
- Dual cushioning (ZoomX + ReactX)
- The use of two foams provides a soft feel that borders on perfect. While the ZoomX ensures a comfortable ride and good energy return, the ReactX foam adds durability and support in the heel and forefoot.
- Record midsole height
- At 46 mm at the heel, the Vomero 18 reaches the highest height in its history. This design reduces impact on the joints and makes every stride feel fluid and protective.
A design adapted to the times
Nike has optimized the Vomero 18 to fit the times. More futuristic design, spectacular colorways... but also a great feeling when you put on the shoe, a feeling of foot protection, better fit and comfort. In addition, the upper has been made with a more flexible mesh that allows greater breathability.
Who the Nike Vomero 18 is for
- Runners looking for an experience of maximum softness, especially in long runs, but without giving up running protected.
- Ideal for those who are in the process of recovery or who are prone to joint discomfort.
- Designed for long distances and moderate paces, more focused on protecting than running fast.
Which one to choose?
Both shoes excel at what they do, but their philosophies are different. If you want a versatile shoe that combines cushioning and responsiveness, the Invincible 3 may be a better choice, especially if you have a more developed running technique. They are perfect if you want a shoes that can accompany you on long runs as well as sessions at higher paces. However, if you are looking for absolute comfort and maximum protection on long runs or light training sessions, Vomero 18 are going to be your choice.
You see, there is no universal answer. Every runner has his or her needs, and both Invincible 3 and Vomero 18 are models that deliver what they promise. Now the question is: what are you looking for in your next shoes?
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