Welcome to Flawless Shoe Reviews. Today, we’re looking at one of the most comfortable Nike shoes I’ve ever worn—the Nike Vomero 18. But here’s the thing: this shoe feels completely different depending on whether you’re walking or running in it.
In this review, I’ll explain how the Vomero 18 performs under different conditions, who it’s best suited for, and how it compares to other Nike models if you need more stability or a different fit.
Dual-Foam Midsole: ZoomX + ReactX
The Vomero 18 combines two distinct foams to deliver a unique underfoot experience:
- ZoomX foam (top layer) is soft, plush, and cloud-like, which is what you feel most when walking.
- ReactX foam (bottom layer) is firmer and more responsive. This kicks in when you’re running or applying more force.
How it feels:
- Walking: Incredibly soft underfoot—ideal for long hours on your feet.
- Running: Firmer and more propulsive. You sink into the ZoomX, but ReactX gives you that push-off snap when you pick up the pace.
Stack Height, Drop, and Protection
- Heel Stack: 44 mm
- Forefoot Stack: 34 mm
- Drop: 10 mm
The high stack and crash pad design make this shoe ideal for heel strikers. The central heel has a hollowed-out crash zone with raised walls, which compresses and helps centre the foot during landing.
Who benefits:
- Runners with Achilles tendon pain may appreciate the 10 mm drop, which helps reduce strain on the tendon.
- Those looking for long-run protection or a comfortable walking shoe will appreciate the generous cushioning and vibration-dampening.
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Stability and Support: Classic Neutral Feel
The Vomero 18 is a neutral running shoe:
- Mild sidewalls on the medial and lateral sides
- Minimal sole flare in the forefoot
Because of how soft the ZoomX foam is, the sidewalls offer very limited intrinsic stability. If you need more structured support, a Nike model like the Nike Structure may suit you better.
Fit and Upper: Race-Inspired Feel
The upper has a snug, tapered fit, making it feel slightly more performance-oriented:
- Dual-engineered mesh construction for breathability and structure
- Padded gusseted tongue for secure lockdown
- Padded heel collar with a flexible heel counter
- Pull tab at the back for easy on-off
The fit is true to size in length, but those with wide feet may find the tapered toe box restrictive.
If you’re after a wider-fitting Nike shoe, you might want to consider the Nike InfinityRN 4, which we cover in a separate review.
Walking vs Running Performance
Walking & Standing:
This is one of the most comfortable daily wear shoes I’ve tried. It’s soft underfoot, smooth through transitions, and ideal for long hours on your feet.
Running:
At 298 grams for a men’s US 9, the Vomero 18 isn’t designed for comfort over long distances like marathons, but it holds its own on:
- Long runs
- Easy/recovery runs
- Uptempo workouts
It has decent pickup, and the ReactX foam adds a nice spring without feeling unstable.
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Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the Vomero 18?
Choose the Nike Vomero 18 if you’re looking for:
- A high-cushion daily trainer with plush comfort
- A shoe that performs well for both walking and running
- A neutral, slightly snug shoe with long-distance protection
Avoid it if you need structured stability or have wide feet, as the fit and platform may not accommodate those needs.