d-quik
Hall of Fame
Did the upper feel any tighter OR looser widthwise, when compared versus the regular V11s?
NikeCourt Zoom Vapor 11 (2023)
- Thread starter XFactorer
- Start date
I would have to say ever so slightly looser. They are (again, in my opinion) comfier out of the box Which seems counter-intuitive with the toe box being more rubber. That said, I stand by it. They are want to wear shoes, not just on the court going full out, but when going about my day. They look great, like a modern retro should, and (I trust) perform like the other versions. I’m impressed.
mjweatherup
New User
Dear all, I am looking to buy some black Vapor 11s in size UK8. One of the stores I’m looking at has the women’s black Vapor 11 on sale and priced £60 cheaper than the mens. Do we think there is any difference between the two? Nike website has them at the same price and there is no visual difference whatsoever. Having purchased some casual Nike women’s (from a marketing perspective) sneakers before (e.g Jordan 1s and 4s), I have found there to be no difference in the build of the shoe. Is the only difference the fact the sizing doesn’t go as high as mens? Let me know your thoughts
d-quik
Hall of Fame
woman's 11 = a narrower men's 9.5
Znak
Hall of Fame
I don't remember tbh, I think zoom nxt is slightly more roomy if I recall correctly. But length is similar
d-quik
Hall of Fame
Finally got around to trying these on and I gotta say I definitely see why a lot of people are turned off by these. First of all these are not "medium width" as I had to go up a full size to not feel anything on my wide feet. Almost unheard of. Secondly, the instep is very low so if you have a tall or high volume feet, you can't use these. Thirdly, the inward tilt angle of the ankle is atrocious. Previous vapors also had this inward tilt but their uppers weren't as stiff as the 11s so you can at least "fight against the tilt". Fourthly, the last complaint I have is a small one, which is the tongue padding is so damn thin. This has literally never been a problem for me (I have never dismissed a shoe for having a thin tongue) but combined with the low instep, this was just not doable. Laces were also short AF. Bad bad. Cages are better. Old vapors were better.
I never tried the vapor pro 2 yet but if those are even narrower than the 11's, I probably won't even bother unless they come out with a WIDE version.
I never tried the vapor pro 2 yet but if those are even narrower than the 11's, I probably won't even bother unless they come out with a WIDE version.
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
The Mac Attack originally came out in 1985
Yes the vapor pro 2 are narrower. The 11s fit me fine (medium to slightly wide feet)
McGradey
Hall of Fame
I like this shoe and find it to be a very standard width in line with other popular shoes. The only issue I have had is that the laces just don't stay tight throughout a match. I'm re-tying them once a set. Otherwise it's a durable, comfortable and great looking shoe. Not really a standout in any area but a good all-rounder. As is typical with Nike, you end up paying premium for a shoe that is no better than any other, but does look cooler.
I bought women size 10 instead us 8.5 a few times and I am confident to say that they weren't narrower. They were nike running shoes though.
HBK4life
Hall of Fame
Yes. “We are not trying”.
Znak
Hall of Fame
V
Very cool pattern, must be a show for AO is my guess
Power Player
Bionic Poster
These were narrower on my pinkie toe area than the Rafa Cages. Sucks, I really wish Nike would make a wider fit.
Cages for me still.
Cages for me still.
vsbabolat
G.O.A.T.
Adidas is using yellow and green too. Are the same guys designing for Nike and adidas, is that why the designs are so bad now?
jmacdaununder2
Legend
Lol!!
!<-_->!
Hall of Fame
Too bad no more of the common sizes.
d-quik
Hall of Fame
gino
Legend
when they initially did the sale they had all sizeswere there any in 13?
Got my first pair of Vapor 11 after the huge TW discount. Currently wearing Vapor Pro 2 and Vapor 9.5. After wearing v11 for a decent week (8 hours playing), I can confidently say that V11 is actually slighty better than VP2 (surprisingly), but still not as good as v9.5 (No surprise here). V11 has a softer upper and slightly wider toebox than VP2, but way better heel lockdown than VP2. VP2 has very bad heel lockdown in my personal experience....Wearing v11 with 2 pairs of socks feels quite nice, and makes the upper fit better. However V9.5 just has better everything to me except the cushion...better lockdown, more lightweight, and sits lower off the ground.
dr325i
G.O.A.T.
Last pair of Nike I used was Vapor 4, back in 2008??
Since then, I have tried/used pretty much everything else (except a few like Babolat or KSwiss…).
I have learned that no matter how much I liked ASICS (FF2/3 and Speed), they were driving my Achilles crazy and sadly will not return to them.
For many years, Barricades were my favorites (with the exception of 6 and 8) but that crashed with the 2021 model.
I finally settled on the Mizuno Enforce Tour - love the fit, foot position, comfort, heel locking. But they do not last long, and even with the 6-month warranty, I still go through 2 pairs in less than 4 months. While they last, they are still the best tennis shoe out there for me.
Last thanksgiving I had a pleasure to hit with @vsbabolat and noticed his Vapor 11 Attack shoes. I noticed them for the looks mainly, but also for the performance that he explained is putting Nike “back where they used to be”. So, when they went on big sale, I decided to pull the trigger and get me a pair.
Beautiful shoe, good fit, but not as comfortable out of the box as my Mizunos. The lacing was weird, especially, when new, kind of stiff. After the first 2-hour session, the Achilles was telling me — stay away (but was not crying like with the FF3s). I did realize that toward the 90- minute mark, they did break in a bit and became looser and that my foot was moving around. I had to tighten the laces…and continue.
The next day I used my Mizunos, the Achilles discomfort went away. And I decided to give it another try, but this time, tighten the laces as tight as possible with that thick padded tongue…and it worked!
After 4 sessions, 8 hours roughly, the shoes are good. Not as soft/comfortable as my Mizunos, but no rubbing or poking, no pains. They do not feel heavy. They are stable. The sole leaves impression that it will be MUCH more durable than the Mizunos. However, the lacing is still weird/weak. It feels like no matter how hard I pull them and tighten them, that my foot is still not secure (I had no issues so far but feels unsecured).
I’ll report more on the progress as I rotate the Attack with my Enforce Wave.
Since then, I have tried/used pretty much everything else (except a few like Babolat or KSwiss…).
I have learned that no matter how much I liked ASICS (FF2/3 and Speed), they were driving my Achilles crazy and sadly will not return to them.
For many years, Barricades were my favorites (with the exception of 6 and 8) but that crashed with the 2021 model.
I finally settled on the Mizuno Enforce Tour - love the fit, foot position, comfort, heel locking. But they do not last long, and even with the 6-month warranty, I still go through 2 pairs in less than 4 months. While they last, they are still the best tennis shoe out there for me.
Last thanksgiving I had a pleasure to hit with @vsbabolat and noticed his Vapor 11 Attack shoes. I noticed them for the looks mainly, but also for the performance that he explained is putting Nike “back where they used to be”. So, when they went on big sale, I decided to pull the trigger and get me a pair.
Beautiful shoe, good fit, but not as comfortable out of the box as my Mizunos. The lacing was weird, especially, when new, kind of stiff. After the first 2-hour session, the Achilles was telling me — stay away (but was not crying like with the FF3s). I did realize that toward the 90- minute mark, they did break in a bit and became looser and that my foot was moving around. I had to tighten the laces…and continue.
The next day I used my Mizunos, the Achilles discomfort went away. And I decided to give it another try, but this time, tighten the laces as tight as possible with that thick padded tongue…and it worked!
After 4 sessions, 8 hours roughly, the shoes are good. Not as soft/comfortable as my Mizunos, but no rubbing or poking, no pains. They do not feel heavy. They are stable. The sole leaves impression that it will be MUCH more durable than the Mizunos. However, the lacing is still weird/weak. It feels like no matter how hard I pull them and tighten them, that my foot is still not secure (I had no issues so far but feels unsecured).
I’ll report more on the progress as I rotate the Attack with my Enforce Wave.
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innoVAShaun
G.O.A.T.
innoVAShaun
G.O.A.T.
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mpournaras
Hall of Fame
TW has MORE white green 11s up. Nike needs to chill with this color pattern. They've done a similar thing 3 times in the last 10 months! Yes these are all different shoes.
Early 2023 (navy streaks/ green forefoot):
Clay 2023 (a little grey/clear forefoot)):
New for 2024 spring (green inside streaks):
Early 2023 (navy streaks/ green forefoot):
Clay 2023 (a little grey/clear forefoot)):
New for 2024 spring (green inside streaks):
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gino
Legend
i have a pair of attacks too, they look awesome but dont perform that well. they are too stiff and heavy for a shoe with the vapor moniker. ill maybe keep them as a piece of decor but the cushion is unresponsive and the midsole way too stiff
if the achilles is bugging you, i would look at something like the 9.5 reissue. the rear of the shoe is supportive but plush. sadly they are almost sold out in all colors and not in the catalog in 2024. I would jump on a pair or two
dr325i
G.O.A.T.
Thank you!
dr325i
G.O.A.T.
Sorry, I never tried any Nike since Vapor 4. This was my first stab at them in 15+ years.
gino
Legend
They definitely have more breathing room than the normal vapor 11 upper. To that end, the shoe feels considerably less bulky and a bit more malleable in the uppers. I still think this performance offering leaves a lot to be desired, the bottom of the shoe is extremely heavy and im not sure what they were doing making this midsole incased. The entire midsole has a stiffness to it that I’ve never felt in a tennis shoe
Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
is this good shoes ? does the pros really use this shoes ??
Nostradamus
Bionic Poster
is Nike going to sell the Alcarez version of vapor 11 ?
Al Czervik
Hall of Fame
I just got a pair of the Mac Attacks and think they are terrible. They shouldn't be considered Vapors. They are heavy out of the box and clunky tanks. The collar digs into the heel a bit, too, although I suspect that would improve with wear. I think these shoes are more for stability and durability than anything else.
HBK4life
Hall of Fame
When I saw them in person at a tennis shop I thought the same thing. Vapors if they let themselves go.
dr325i
G.O.A.T.
So, I got me a pair of 9.5's just to see what the fuss is all about. Then, after 3 sessions in them, I got me 3 more pairs!
I am not sure why I refused to try Nikes before (since Vapor 4) but 9.5s are awesome - light, comfortable (almost out of the box), very responsive.
Negatives so far: ventilation -- it is the old school. I feel like the new shoes materials and breathability has improved a lot. The 9.5s are old school and after 3 sessions (6 hours), I feel they will retain sweat a bit more and get "stinky" quicker. Now, I travel to China every 6-8 weeks and take my gear with me and travel in my tennis shoes. From the comfort perspective, these should be OK, but from the breathability side -- questionable.
I am not sure about durability. I slide much more in these as they have fairly flat sole and are lower to the ground. They feel more "delicate" than other shoes I have been using. Maybe in my head because I am not sure I'll be able to get additional ones any time soon?
Positives:
- Price. I got my first pair for $103, the other two below $100, last pair for $82, all brand new (3 pink, 1 white/blue leather)
- Comfort. Great comfort, padding. A bit too much with the tongue, the rest of the shoe is very appropriate, not too much, not too little
- Light. The shoes feel very fast and light.
- low to the ground.
These are also a great looking shoes. For some reason, I did not like the looks of them for years, but now I really like them...
No issues with my Achilles although, I made sure I tied the laces very tight!
gino
Legend
I’m quite glad to read this update my friend. Least I can do for all the knowledge and gear advice you’ve bestowed on me and other forum members
A couple notes based on your feedback:
- Your Achilles should be your first consideration. If these 9.5s snitch up your feet better than other options I’m sure you won’t feel any undue stress back there. The vapor 9 was better at fitting snug but these 9.5 reissues are close & I think if you re-snitch before every hit you’ll be impressed by the fit over their useful life
- Breathability - when Nike “evolved” this shoe from the 9, the synthetic overlays neutered some of the airflow through the uppers. That being said, I think these open up the more you play in them. My suggestion would be stick to the mesh ones when you travel & be contentious about the way they are breathing and adjust. I think the breathe nice in the toe box and vamp/tongue area. The heel and mid foot areas could use some extra mesh, so for that reason I try and wear a more breathable sock with these. Normally I go Nike elite but in these I use the Nike multiplier crew
- Durability - I’m sure you remember wearing old vapors that this isn’t the strong suit of this line. I think these are more durable than any vapor other than the V9.5 flyknit, only because the upper held up longer. These are gonna wear pretty fast, especially in the forefoot given their wide last/deep tread. The way I’ve tried to work this out to salvage more useful time in them is buy A few pairs and rotate. A lot of weather/personal footwork factors will vary the degree of wear. I would advise others to have a heavier/more durable practice shoe. However given your Achilles situation I would stay with the same shoe and stock up. Great news - these are being found all over at Ross outlets in the honey duece colorway for $50. For less than the price of one asics court ff you could have 3 of these. Pretty wild given how legendary/terrific of a performer they are
- Lastly, enjoy the ride and a few tips for maximizing the v9.5 experience - look into orthotics with a little more cushion if you don’t already have custom ones. I have used the spenco total support thin and have noticed less fatigue especially under the forefoot. I’d consult a podiatrist on that ultimately but an interesting way to make the v9.5 an even better shoe. It can handle a little extra weight and the plush tongue shoild allow your foot to comfortably rise up a bit.
- Low to the ground feel/court connection - ultimately this is the calling card of the vapor line. I’ve done a full history if you’re curious on the specs of other models, I’ll link that at the bottom of the post. The v9/9.5/9.5 flyknit are the most low to the ground shoe I’ve used without sacrificing cushion to an intolerable degree. There’s a reason dimitrov still demands them. I would say this is their single best attribute. It’s a connection to the court I think is analogous to 4-wheel drivetrain vs any alternative, the way it grips the ground is truly unique. Boils down to the interplay between the tread and the last I believe. Anyways dude happy hitting and safe travels! Glad to have been a help on this journey
Rosstour
G.O.A.T.
@dr325i use due caution. The 9.5 is a lovely shoe and used to be my go-to for tournaments/important matches.
However, the way that they would tell me "we're finished" was that I would slip and feel a twinge in my Achilles area.
So if you have Achilles issues I would pay very close attention to the tread especially on the heel area.
However, the way that they would tell me "we're finished" was that I would slip and feel a twinge in my Achilles area.
So if you have Achilles issues I would pay very close attention to the tread especially on the heel area.
gino
Legend
I think this could be more of a footwork quirk than anything because I’ve had dozen of collegiate teammates/guys I’ve coached use them with different foot types & swear by them. If you even look at the pro tour not many recorded lower body injuries using them
All that being said, once the tread goes on these anything is possible. I totally agree with that. Especially on a dirty hard court where you could be more prone to slippage issues
What was the slippage like??
Rosstour
G.O.A.T.
The thing is it hasn't happened in any shoes before or since. Was just particular to those.
I would slip, feel an odd tweak, which is totally unusual and always makes me stop short. Then I would look at the tread and realize the shoe was gone and that's how I would know it was time to break out a new pair
Usually I would have the realization when retrieving a dropper if that helps. I'm also not a slider, my movement relies totally on not breaking traction
LiamMiguel
Semi-Pro
Just got a pair of 11s. I'm not a huge face of the laces, just can't get them cinched up to my liking. Because there's no hole for a full runners' knot, I can't seem to get a tight lockdown at the heel and ankle. Has anyone punctured an extra hole for an eyelet to make a runners' knot?
bobeeto
Hall of Fame
9.5 reissue has murdered my Achilles despite the rave reviews
gino
Legend
9.5 reissue has murdered my Achilles despite the rave reviews
As in you tore it ? Was the injury pre existing ?
bobeeto
Hall of Fame
No not tore, just getting consistent blistering with it, even in double socks. My Achilles is quite pronounced and the squared collar is like a cheese grinder
