Nike has officially introduced the Vaporfly 4 in the Prototype colorway, bringing key updates to one of its most trusted racing models. Designed for speed and efficiency, the Vaporfly 4 refines weight distribution, propulsion, and fit to enhance performance from the mile to the marathon. This latest iteration trims excess materials while maintaining the responsive feel that has made the Vaporfly line a favorite among elite athletes and dedicated runners.
Refined Construction for Performance
Nike has optimized the Vaporfly 4’s structure for enhanced stability and reduced weight without compromising the responsiveness that defines the series. The engineered mesh upper offers improved breathability while maintaining a secure, adaptable fit. A revised heel bulge redistributes weight for better support, particularly during longer races, while the midsole refinements contribute to an efficient and balanced ride.
A key update is the adjusted Flyplate curvature, which increases propulsion by enhancing the foot’s natural leverage. The thinner outsole rubber cuts unnecessary bulk while maintaining durability, ensuring reliable traction on race surfaces. These refinements allow the Nike Vaporfly 4 to maintain speed and efficiency over long distances while feeling lighter on foot.
Prototype Colorway
The Prototype colorway of the Vaporfly 4 introduces a fresh aesthetic while maintaining the performance-driven ethos of the series. The upper features a sail-colored engineered mesh, providing a neutral, minimalist base that emphasizes the shoe’s lightweight structure. A bold black Swoosh extends along the lateral side, contrasting against the understated upper for a sharp visual impact.
Adding to its distinctive look, metallic silver accents appear on the tongue and heel tab, giving the shoe a sleek, high-performance appearance. The Total Orange perforated insole offers a vibrant touch, reinforcing Nike’s approach to subtle but effective detailing. A unique feature of this edition is the handwritten number on the lateral heel, a direct reference to the prototype wear-testing process that helped refine the Vaporfly 4 before its final production.
The midsole follows a dual-tone design, with the upper portion maintaining the sail color and the lower section incorporating black detailing that visually emphasizes the high-stack ZoomX foam construction.
Nike has historically released Prototype versions as a nod to innovation and early-stage performance testing. This edition continues that legacy.
Lighter Weight, More Efficient Energy Return
Nike has significantly reduced weight in the Vaporfly 4, making it the lightest version in the series to date. Weighing approximately 6.7 ounces (190 grams) for a men’s US size 10, this model is around 10% lighter than the Vaporfly 3. This was achieved by removing unnecessary foam from the midsole and using thinner rubber on the outsole.
A full-length carbon fiber Flyplate remains a key feature, now adjusted to a higher curvature for improved propulsion. This revised design enhances energy return by providing greater leverage during toe-off, helping runners sustain their pace over extended distances. Paired with Nike’s ZoomX foam, the shoe delivers a responsive and cushioned experience that supports both speed and endurance efforts.
The midsole also features a reduced heel-to-toe drop of 6 millimeters, an adjustment that promotes a more natural footstrike and encourages an efficient running form. This lower drop, combined with the lightweight build, helps reduce fatigue while maintaining speed throughout a race.
Outsole Enhancements and Durability Improvements
Nike has updated the outsole of the Vaporfly 4 to further improve traction and durability. The rubber compound is thinner than in the Vaporfly 3, minimizing excess weight while retaining reliability on both wet and dry surfaces. The forefoot section features a refined waffle pattern for improved grip, ensuring that runners maintain stability even at high speeds.
The outsole changes also contribute to a more natural flexion pattern, allowing the foot to move smoothly through each stride. By focusing on essential contact points, Nike has eliminated unnecessary bulk without compromising durability, making the Vaporfly 4 suitable for both road races and high-intensity training sessions.
Release Date and Availability
The Vaporfly 4 Prototype release date is set for March 14, 2025. The Nike Vaporfly 4 Prototype – Sail/Total Orange colorway will be available through Nike.com and select retailers worldwide for $260, with options in both men’s and women’s sizing.
Athlete Insights and Real-World Testing
Nike collaborated with elite distance runners to fine-tune the Vaporfly 4, incorporating insights from wear-testing throughout the development process. Athletes such as Joshua Cheptegei and Mohammed Ahmed tested the shoe in various race conditions, providing feedback that influenced key adjustments in weight distribution, plate curvature, and upper material selection.
“The Vaporfly 4 is the ideal Vaporfly. Nike nailed it,” said Ahmed. “There are so many aspects I love about this shoe: It’s lighter than its previous iteration, more responsive, gives a comfortable ride, has a stable feel, and offers a great fit. Simply put, it’s the perfect combination of carbon to foam in this shoe to date. I love running fast in this shoe.”
With the Vaporfly 4 Prototype, Nike has refined one of its most successful racing models, making it lighter, faster, and more stable. The improvements in weight distribution, energy return, and durability reflect a precise approach to performance running, ensuring that this version of the Vaporfly continues to be a trusted choice for athletes aiming to achieve their best results.
are these good for running? I do not understand why are they so ugly ??