Nike Unveils The Vaporfly 4 and Streakfly 2

Nike is again setting the pace in performance running by unveiling the Vaporfly 4 and the Streakfly 2, the latest iterations in two of its most celebrated racing lines. Designed to push the limits of speed, comfort, and innovation, both models continue Nike’s tradition of crafting elite racing footwear that serves everyone—from record-breaking marathoners to local run crew enthusiasts.

First introduced in 2017, the Vaporfly line has become synonymous with the "super shoe" revolution. With the Vaporfly 4, Nike delivers the lightest version of the silhouette to date—roughly 10% lighter than the Vaporfly 3 and an astonishing 20 grams lighter than the original Vaporfly. The Vaporfly 4’s development was fueled by real-world feedback from top-tier athletes like Joshua Cheptegei and Mohammed Ahmed, who rigorously tested the shoe throughout its production. The result is a race-day shoe that’s not only built for speed but is also versatile enough for distances ranging from the 5K to the marathon.

The Nike Vaporfly 4 represents the pinnacle of Nike's running innovation. The brand's signature ZoomX foam is at its core—Nike's lightest and most resilient midsole compound—paired with an updated carbon fiber Flyplate. This combination amplifies energy return, offering runners an unparalleled balance of responsiveness and comfort, while the newly adjusted Flyplate curvature optimizes leverage from the foot and ankle.

Engineers strategically removed excess foam from the midsole of the Vaporfly 4, reducing bulk while enhancing stability resulting in its lower weight. The result is a shoe that offers more support without the added weight—ideal for athletes chasing faster times. The upper has also been completely reimagined, featuring a breathable mesh that adapts to the foot, ensuring a snug yet comfortable fit that stays consistent throughout the race.

“The Vaporfly 4 is the ideal Vaporfly. Nike nailed it,” says Mohammed, a Nike athlete and Canadian long-distance runner. “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.”

While the Vaporfly 4 targets long-distance runners, the Streakfly 2 is designed for speed demons tackling shorter races like the 5K, 10K, and road mile, as well as fast-paced tempo runs and intervals. Purpose-built for raw speed and responsiveness, the Streakfly 2 is a game-changer for runners looking to shave seconds off their best times.

One of the most significant upgrades is the addition of a full-length Flyplate, a feature that didn’t exist in the original Streakfly. This carbon fiber plate provides unmatched propulsion, helping runners maximize energy return and maintain peak performance through the final stretch. Combined with ZoomX foam in the midsole, the shoe delivers a snappy, responsive ride with a surprising amount of cushioning for its minimal build.

Designed on a track-spike last, the Streakfly 2 has an aggressive stance that encourages forefoot striking, aided by a 4mm heel-to-toe drop—perfect for short bursts of speed. The outsole has been re-engineered with a new traction pattern that ensures precision grip during tight turns and sprints.

“Usually, I would need to switch from sneakers to spikes during interval training to condition my muscles and avoid injury,” says Nike athlete Jessica Hull, an Australian middle- and long-distance runner. “But the responsive, supportive design of the Streakfly 2 allows me to run all of my fastest reps without having to change into spikes, helping my feet and legs feel fresher the next day.”

The shoe is also significantly lighter than its predecessor, weighing in at just 126 grams—about 40 grams lighter than the original Streakfly—making it one of the lightest racing shoes on the market. A redesigned lacing system offers a more customizable fit, while a new engineered mesh upper boosts breathability and comfort.

The Nike Vaporfly 4 and Streakfly 2 are set to release in March 2025 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Coming in unisex sizing, the retail price for the Vaporfly 4 is set at $260, while the Streakfly 2 retails for $180. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.

Nike Vaporfly 4

Nike Streakfly 2

Nicholas Vlahos

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com