Nike ZoomX
Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 ‘Ekiden ZoomX Pack Black’ Review: Speed, Style, and Japanese Legacy Collide
Introduction
When it comes to elite racing sneakers, the Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 sits comfortably at the top. Designed for record-breaking speed and next-level energy return, it’s the go-to choice for marathoners and serious runners worldwide. But in the ‘Ekiden ZoomX Pack Black’ edition (style code: DO2408-739), Nike goes beyond function to honor tradition—specifically, Japan’s revered Ekiden road relay races.
This version marries breakthrough performance with cultural storytelling, offering runners and collectors alike something that’s both fast and meaningful.
What is the Ekiden Pack?
The Ekiden Pack pays tribute to Japan’s long-distance relay racing culture, where teams of elite athletes pass a sash called a “tasuki” as they run across hundreds of kilometers. The color palettes and motifs reflect Japanese aesthetics, team spirit, and the enduring endurance of the sport.
In this ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2, the bold black base, vibrant volt and orange ZoomX midsole, and special details pay homage to that racing spirit.
Design Overview: Minimal Yet Bold
The silhouette remains true to the Vaporfly series—sleek, aerodynamic, and built for performance. But the Ekiden edition introduces bold design touches that make this shoe stand out on the start line or city streets.
Design Highlights:
- Upper: Lightweight engineered mesh in deep black for breathability
- Midsole: Vibrant volt green with orange accents, visually celebrating energy and urgency
- Heel Graphics: Custom “Ekiden” Japanese calligraphy and iconography
- Outsole: Full-length rubber sections for grip and traction
- Lacing System: Offset for improved anatomical alignment and pressure relief
This is one of the most stylish sneakers in the high-performance category—minimalist in structure, but maximalist in impact.
Performance Breakdown: Built for Speed
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 is engineered to be fast—period. Whether you’re going sub-3 in a marathon or chasing a personal best, this shoe gives you every advantage.
Key Performance Features:
- ZoomX Foam: Ultralight and ultra-bouncy cushioning for high energy return
- Full-Length Carbon Plate: Stabilizes propulsion and increases toe-off efficiency
- Wider Forefoot: Enhances comfort and foot stability during long efforts
- Lightweight Mesh Upper: Breathable yet secure, with reinforced areas for durability
- Grip Rubber Outsole: Reliable traction in all conditions, even at race pace
The ride feels spring-loaded, with each step propelling you forward. It’s one of the few shoes that actually feels like it helps you run faster—and that’s not just hype.
Comfort and Fit
Despite being a race-day shoe, the Vaporfly Next% 2 offers surprising comfort. The Ekiden ZoomX Pack Black variant retains all the upgrades made to this version’s fit and feel.
Fit Guide:
- True to size for most runners
- Snug race fit, but more forgiving than earlier Vaporfly iterations
- Padded tongue and heel collar reduce pressure points
- Adaptive mesh upper conforms to foot shape without hotspots
This is a shoe designed to perform over 10K, half marathon, and full marathon distances—and your feet will thank you after the finish line.
Who Should Wear This Shoe?
This isn’t a casual lifestyle sneaker—it’s a finely tuned performance machine. But that doesn’t mean it only appeals to elite runners.
Best For:
- Marathoners and road racers seeking top-tier performance
- Serious runners looking to shave seconds off their PR
- Collectors drawn to Japanese culture and Nike storytelling
- Fashion-forward athletes who want both speed and aesthetic
- Sneaker fans who appreciate limited-edition performance models
If you fall into any of those categories, the ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 ‘Ekiden ZoomX Pack Black’ is worth every cent.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and ultra-responsive ride | Not ideal for everyday training due to durability limits |
| Carbon plate delivers efficient propulsion | Premium price point |
| Cultural design details that add depth and meaning | Narrow fit for wider feet |
| Limited edition makes it collectible | Not as cushioned for heel strikers on slow runs |
Styling & Versatility
While this is a Nike running shoe first and foremost, the Ekiden edition stands out enough to be styled off the track. Paired with minimalist streetwear, it offers a futuristic, fashion-sport edge.
Styling Tips:
- Pair with techwear joggers and a windbreaker for urban runner style
- Wear with black shorts and race tee for full performance mode
- Add subtle Japanese streetwear elements for cultural homage
- Avoid bulky jeans—this shoe shines with slim silhouettes
It won’t replace your go-to casual sneakers, but it’s a great way to flex performance fashion in the right context.
Comparison: Vaporfly Next% 2 vs. Other Racing Shoes
| Model | Key Features | Compared to Vaporfly Next% 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Nike Alphafly NEXT% 2 | Dual Zoom pods, max stack height | Vaporfly is lighter, more nimble for mid-distance racing |
| ASICS Metaspeed Sky+ | Responsive FF Blast Turbo foam | Vaporfly has superior carbon plate integration |
| Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 | ENERGYRODS for propulsion | Vaporfly provides softer ride, better lockdown |
| Saucony Endorphin Pro 3 | PWRRUNPB foam, Speedroll tech | Vaporfly wins in bounce and legacy |
Still, the Vaporfly Next% 2 remains the industry standard for a reason—it wins races.
Where to Buy
Due to its limited nature and connection to Japanese running culture, this model is in high demand. For trusted sources, stick to:
- TheenStyle – A curated platform for high-performance Nike drops
- StockX – Authentic marketplace for current resale value and size options
- GOAT – Offers new and used pairs with buyer protection and verification
Use Style Code: DO2408-739 to avoid confusion with other Vaporfly editions.
Final Verdict
The Nike ZoomX Vaporfly Next% 2 ‘Ekiden ZoomX Pack Black’ is more than just a fast shoe—it’s a symbol of excellence, tradition, and evolution. Whether you’re chasing personal records or paying homage to Japanese running culture, this pair delivers performance and storytelling in equal measure.
Fast. Focused. Culturally iconic.
If you’re serious about racing—and want your sneakers to mean something beyond performance—this is the Vaporfly to own.