Continuing to evolve one of the hottest tennis shoes on the market is never an easy task. Worn by some of the greatest players the game has ever seen, the Vapor series by NikeCourt has observed a steady progression of technology and stability throughout its history. Worn by the like of Andrey Rublev, Bianca Andreescu, Nick Kyrgios and Karen Khachanov, the all-new NikeCourt Air Zoom Vapor Pro is already a major hit on Tour.
Possessing many of the great qualities of the Air Zoom Vapor X, the Vapor Pro takes the series one step further with asymmetrical lacing, an even lighter upper, more stability around the court, and a neoprene bootie construction toward the lacing system.
Fit for the Legends of the Court
One aspect of the Vapor series that has won over many players throughout the years has been its easy comfort right out of the box. Requiring no break-in period, the Vapor Pro offers the same fit as the Vapor X, but provides an even more locked down fit because of its asymmetrical lacing pattern. Also found in the Air Zoom Vapor Cage 4, the Vapor Pro’s lacing system is a great benefit for those players looking to heighten their speed around any surface.
Playability
Having some big shoes to fill in the playability department, the Vapor Pro performed very similar to the Vapor X but provided even more stability, due in large part to the enhanced foot frame on the lateral side of the shoe. Allowing for silky smooth movement throughout the court, the Vapor Pro remained low-to-the-ground and provided the traction and comfort that will resonate with any level of player.
Relatability
Apart from a great aesthetic that has traditionally done well with many different types of players, the Vapor Pro really did feel effortless when first tried on. From the glove-like fit, to the new bootie-like lacing system, the Vapor Pro felt like an advanced version of the Vapor X. Nike was smart to keep the padded collar at the back of the shoe, as the “thinner” neoprene collars featured on the Vapor X Flyknit did not provide the same level of support. All in all, the Vapor Pro simply felt like a lighter, more secure version of the Vapor X.
Breathability
With Summer on the horizon, the top priority for many players will be how light and breathable there footwear is on court. Coming in at .6 ounces lighter than the Vapor X, the Vapor Pro featured a stretchy internal sleeve and added durable mesh for a second layer of support and breathability. Initially being very skeptical about the integration of mesh throughout the upper, I was pleasantly surprised when this material reacted in a secure and stable manner when moving forward or horizontally.
Aired Out
Is there a better cushioning system than Zoom Air in the world of tennis shoes? Built on the same last as the Vapor X, the Vapor Pro will once again aid those players that like a stable ride around the court or enjoy sliding on hard-courts. Even though the version of the Vapor Pro that we reviewed was made for hard-courts, the modified herringbone pattern is more than suitable for clay-court use as well. The low-profile nature of the Vapor Pro remains very reminiscent to that of the ASICS Court FF 2.
The Lowdown
Having a lot to live up to, the Vapor Pro succeeded in bringing forth a silhouette that is both ultra functional and aesthetically pleasing. Not being the most durable footwear model in Nike’s lineup, the Vapor Pro will definitely remain one of the best game day shoes on the market.
Initially skeptical toward the reduced price-point on the Vapor Pro, we later learned that Nike was able to work with new material vendors to cut $30 USD off the final price, but did not sacrifice any performance value.
If you’re in the market for some new Nike on-courts kicks this Summer, the Vapor Pro remains a must.
You can purchase the NikeCourt Zoom Vapor Pro at the following online store:
