Nike’s Techy Dad Shoe Has a Secret Girly Side
There’s something particularly good about a sneaker that gets the balance between cutesy and techy just right. Too much of either and things can go sideways, but Nike seems to have found the sweet spot with this Zoom pair, blending the silhouette’s early-2000s running-shoe DNA with a decidedly prettier finish.
Meet the Nike Zoom Vomero 5.
The black mesh base and layered synthetic panels bring all the busy, mechanical-looking details you’d expect from a technical runner. Then Nike throws in Medium Soft Pink overlays, tiny silver studs, and, best of all, ribbon laces. Suddenly, a shoe that looks ready for a serious training session has a distinctly girly streak.
Those ribbons really make the whole thing. Swapping standard laces for something a little more delicate creates a fun contrast with the chunky paneling and sporty construction, while the pink and metallic details keep the look somewhere between sweet and slightly rebellious. It’s almost like a ballet flat and a Y2K running shoe got together and decided to see what happened.
Crucially, the Vomero 5’s familiar shape keeps all those details from feeling too precious. There’s still plenty of technical attitude here, just with a softer side that makes the sneaker feel a little less predictable.
With Zoom Air cushioning underfoot, it hasn’t completely abandoned its running roots, either. But between the ribbon laces and pink accents, this is one runner that’s clearly dressed to do more than put in the miles.
The "Medium Soft Pink" Zoom Vomero 5 is available for $170 on Nike's website now.
Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase. Want to shop the products our editors actually love? Visit our SHOPPER page and subscribe to the newsletter for recs on all things fashion, footwear, and beauty.
