Is The Nike Vomero Plus Nike’s Answer to Hoka?

Published May 8, 2025 at 4:13 PM

Nike Vomero Plus vs. HOKA ONE ONE Skyward X

The rise of brands like Hoka and On over the last half-decade has caused Nike to lose market share in the performance running category. These new players have entered the space and hit on what consumers have begun turning to — maximalist cushioning. Nike is no stranger to beefed-up running sneakers, a la the Alphafly 3, but where these other brands differ is their price point, coming in at much more affordable and reasonable prices in the under $200 range. The Swoosh may have an answer to the popularity of Hoka as official images of the next iteration in the Vomero series have appeared.

Nike shook up how it approached the performance running sneaker category with a three-tiered system, offering the standard model (Icon), in this case, the Vomero 18, a mid-tier "Plus" model, and the "Premium." For the Vomero's Plus iteration, Nike applies a lightweight engineered mesh upper that allows for unique colorblocking as wavy linear textiles merge with a dotted pattern on this base. Reinforcements on the eyelets and toe help with structure, while the Swoosh logo on the midfoot takes center stage and cuts across the upper.

The underfoot experience is where Nike takes after its competitors, as the sculpted foam midsole is done in an organic-like free-flowing design, encapsulating a full-length ZoomX foam cushioning setup. This part is apparent thanks to the large ZoomX logos stamped on the sole unit, but there's more to the sneaker that Nike has yet to unveil. Traction below comes in a waffle-like design featuring cutouts to the foam within the sneaker.

The Nike Vomero Plus will debut in Fall 2025 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store in multiple colorways. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $170. Check below for first looks at five upcoming women’s colorways of the Vomero Plus, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.