Where to Buy the Nike Zoom Vomero 5 "Designed By Japan"

A project that marries the brand's storied legacy with contemporary innovation, Nike's "Designed by Japan" initiative has quickly risen to one of the most marquee series in collaborative design. Following its 2023 debut with the Air Max 1, this intriguing series welcomes the Zoom Vomero 5, showcasing a bold reinterpretation bridging the gap between the brand's foundational Blue Ribbon Sports days and the contemporary sneaker landscape.

This Nike Zoom Vomero 5 "Designed By Japan" undergoes a significant transformation, drawing upon two distinct design philosophies. Firstly, the introduction of an oversized leather Swoosh, reminiscent of Nike's designs from the 1970s, overlays a smaller check, offering a vintage aesthetic that's both nostalgic and fresh. Secondly, a sleek, smooth plating replaces the traditional ventilated cage. At the same time, the base layer swaps out mesh for premium leather, prioritizing style over breathability.

Perhaps the most notable departure from the original Zoom Vomero 5 design is the heel, where the characteristic TPU support is substituted with a new plating, alongside added pull tabs at the tongue and heel for enhanced functionality. These changes honor Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman's legacy of innovation—echoing his revolutionary waffle sole creation—and signal the brand's ongoing commitment to reimagining sneaker design.

Expect a release of the Nike Zoom Vomero 5 "Designed By Japan" to arrive on Nike SNKRS on May 10, 2024, for a retail price of $180.