In 2017, Nike dared to make history with its Breaking 2 project. To those unfamiliar, it was an attempt to break the 2-hour barrier by three runners—Eliud Kipchoge, Zersenay Tadese, Lelisa Desisa—as they are equipped with the aptly named Nike Zoom Vaporfly Elite sneakers, which at the time could potentially be the world’s fastest sneakers should any one of them beat the 2-hour mark. The shoes which prompted buzz as much as the event were not sold to the public at first; the ‘elites’ were exclusive for the athletes, and were tailored accordingly to their feet.
Compare Nike Zoom VaporFly Elite Prices Online
Release date: 2017
In the end, Nike did not seal a record breaker, although they came very, very close; Elius Kipchoge finished at 2.00.25 which is still a win as it is faster than the existing world record. The pair remains a marvel as Nike had to make both a lightweight and durable shoe that would survive even after training, made possible by the ZoomX technology. The sneakers have seen limited release since then and have spawned many versions, some of which vary in price and in make.
Pros
The Nike Zoom VaporFly Elites are supposedly feats of engineering, especially since they were made specifically for Breaking 2 and are meant to surpass records. They are intended to give more energy and support to runners from start to finish. However, not much information is known about the pairs given the limited pairs available outside of the three marathon runners, but what the company has spoken highly of are its Flyknit collar as well as the ZoomX midsole cushioning, that make them ultra-light and responsive at the same time. The ZoomX midsole is considered softer than most cushions used currently.
Cons
Impressive sneakers as they may be, they are still largely unavailable to the public save for the limited release to members and a few giveaways back in 2017. This fact can only lead to varying and high prices on the market considering their rarity and the topnotch material employed that the shoe giant swears by.
Compare With
- NikeCraft Mars Yard 2.0
- Nike Air Max 270
- HOKA ONE ONE Bondi Leather Sneakers
- Cos Lace-Up Canvas Sneaker
Image credits: Gizmo Times (featured image), Sneaker News, GQ, Hypebeast, Nike, Jordans for All (article images)
