Nike Vaporfly 3 vs Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

When it comes to high-performance running, two of the most contentious options out there include Nike Vaporfly 3 and Adidas Adizado Adios Pro 3. Two shoes have been designed for pace, energy return, and competition performance, and both have become go-to options for competitive runners and runners competing in a marathon. As similar as both sound, both have individual distinguishing factors.

But which one is best for you? Let’s pit all aspects of Nike Vaporfly 3 vs Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3, and with them, enable you to choose between them and understand which one best suit your purpose for running.

Feature Comparison: Nike Vaporfly 3 vs Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Feature	Nike Vaporfly 3	Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
Best For	Speed-focused runners, elite marathoners	Marathoners, long-distance competitors
Cushioning	ZoomX foam (soft, highly responsive)	Lightstrike Pro foam (firmer, balanced)
Carbon Plate	Full-length carbon plate	EnergyRods 2.0 (carbon-infused rods)
Weight	~198g (Men’s US 9)	~213g (Men’s US 9)
Heel-to-Toe Drop	8mm	6.5mm
Fit	Narrow, snug fit	Slightly wider, accommodating fit
Durability	Moderate (best for races, not daily use)	More durable, suitable for training and racing
Traction	Moderate (best on dry roads)	Excellent (performs well on varied terrain)
Price	Premium pricing (~£225)	Slightly more affordable (~£200)

Overview of Nike Vaporfly 3 vs Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Both the Nike Vaporfly 3 and the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 are engineered to maximise efficiency, speed, and energy return. However, their design philosophies differ slightly.

Nike Vaporfly 3

The Vaporfly 3 is built for pure speed, making it the preferred choice for elite marathoners and runners targeting personal bests. Featuring Nike’s ZoomX foam, it provides an ultra-soft and bouncy feel, reducing fatigue over long distances. The full-length carbon plate enhances propulsion, ensuring maximum efficiency with each stride.

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

The Adios Pro 3 is a strong contender for marathon racing but offers a slightly different approach. It utilises EnergyRods 2.0 instead of a traditional carbon plate, which provides a more natural toe-off feel. The Lightstrike Pro foam is firmer than Nike’s ZoomX, delivering a blend of responsiveness and stability. It’s also more durable, making it a good option for both training and racing.

Comfort & Fit

Nike Vaporfly 3

The Vaporfly 3 has a snug, narrow fit, ideal for runners with slimmer feet. The lightweight mesh upper provides breathability but might feel restrictive for wider feet. The ZoomX foam ensures a plush underfoot feel, though some runners might find it less stable due to the softer cushioning.

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

The Adios Pro 3 offers a slightly roomier toe box, making it a better choice for runners who need a little extra space. The Lightstrike Pro foam delivers a firmer ride, offering better stability for those who prefer a more structured shoe.

Feature	Nike Vaporfly 3	Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
Fit	Narrow, snug	Wider, more accommodating
Cushioning	Soft, plush	Firm, responsive
Upper	Lightweight mesh	Breathable knit

Performance & Speed

Nike Vaporfly 3

The combination of ZoomX foam and a full-length carbon plate makes the Vaporfly 3 one of the fastest shoes on the market. It’s particularly effective for marathons and road racing, offering a propulsive feel that helps reduce fatigue.

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

The EnergyRods 2.0 system provides a more natural transition while maintaining excellent energy return. This makes the Adios Pro 3 a versatile option for both training and racing, especially for runners who prefer a slightly firmer ride.

Durability & Traction

Nike Vaporfly 3

The lightweight design means durability isn’t its strong suit. It’s best reserved for race day rather than daily training. The outsole provides good grip on dry roads but might struggle on wet or uneven surfaces.

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

Thanks to the Continental rubber outsole, the Adios Pro 3 offers better durability and traction, making it more reliable for varied conditions.

Feature	Nike Vaporfly 3	Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
Durability	Moderate	High
Traction	Good on dry roads	Excellent on multiple surfaces

Pricing & Value

Nike Vaporfly 3

Priced at around £225, the Vaporfly 3 is a premium investment. It’s designed primarily for racing rather than daily mileage, making it ideal for serious runners aiming for top performance.

Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3

At around £200, the Adios Pro 3 is slightly more affordable and offers greater versatility, making it a good option for both training and racing.

Final Verdict: Which Shoe Should You Choose?

Choose the Nike Vaporfly 3 if…

You want maximum speed and efficiency

You’re an elite or competitive marathoner

You prefer soft, highly responsive cushioning

You don’t mind sacrificing durability for performance

Choose the Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 if…

You need a shoe for both training and racing

You prefer a firmer, more stable ride

You run on varied terrains and need better traction

You want a slightly more affordable option

Conclusion

Both the Nike Vaporfly 3 and Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 are excellent racing shoes, but your choice depends on personal preference, running style, and budget. If you prioritise speed and softness, go for the Vaporfly 3. If you want versatility and durability, the Adios Pro 3 is a solid choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the Nike Vaporfly 3 and Adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 true to size?
Both generally fit true to size, but the Vaporfly 3 runs narrower, while the Adios Pro 3 has a roomier toe box.

Which shoe is better for marathon racing?
The Vaporfly 3 is slightly better for pure speed, but the Adios Pro 3 provides more stability and durability.

Which is more durable?
The Adios Pro 3 is more durable due to its robust outsole and firmer midsole.

Are they worth the price?
Both are premium shoes designed for performance. If you’re serious about racing, either option is a great investment.