In recent history, the term “chunky” can often be tied to the choice of footwear. Although it may not always be the definitive option, certain silhouettes have emerged in the everyday rotation of the youth as the go-to pair that subtly culminates the entirety of a fit.
A rebrand if you’d distinguish it, bulky sneakers have captured the attention of fashion advocates, dabbling on yesterday’s trends by embracing a more flowing laid-back aesthetic. With New Balance’s early models seated comfortably in the driver’s seat as the go-to “dad shoe,” Nike incorporates past releases into their growing collection—retro-ing the Nike Air Monarch IV and Nike Air Force 1 ’07 as a familiar face enters the block in 2023.
Reintroducing the Nike Zoom 5 Vomero.
via Stadium Goods
Nike’s Vomero-line ushered the Swoosh’s technologically advanced trainer collection while inadvertently combatting the dad-core resurgence in the 2020s. The 2011-fifth edition offers a redesigned midfoot section, integrating Zoom Air cushioning in the forefoot and the heel. One of the pioneering silhouettes compatible with the Nike+ feature, the initial Zoom Vomero 5 tracked health-related data—a suitable companion for both male and female runners.
Before its lifestyle component, Nike phased out the pair due to the availability of more technologically advanced alternatives. It was only in 2019 that Nike answered the prayers of its global fanbase, offering a plethora of generally released colorways, and in 2022 when it unofficially returned after its two-year hiatus.
In retrospect, the pair was either a definite hit or a complete miss. Luckily for the Vomeo 5 stans, the Swoosh continues to go with the flow, populating a handful of releases across the 2023 calendar.
The Nike Vomero 5’s updated look encapsulates a heavily reinforced upper, incorporating layers of textiles, and genuine and synthetic leathers, on top of plastic accents that breathe its unrivaled comfort. Whether it's the eccentric design or appeal of its chunky-like appearance, many of its current releases see the integration of reflective materials that flash with stride, peering into the versatility aspect as a comfortable trainer and (possibly) a fashion staple.
As an avid supporter of the changing times, the dad-silhouette aesthetic of the Nike Vomero 5 resonates with me (or maybe it’s just because I’m getting older, whoops!). Its timeless heritage paired with fledging trends, culminates a fit grounded on trendiness and comfort, with a subtle hint of sophistication.
With Jordan retros, Nike Dunks, and Adidas Sambas creating havoc in the sneakersphere, the pair’s timeless utility presents a suitable candidate for everyday wear. Whether paired with a fresh pair of mesh/running shorts, wide-fitting bottoms, or crew-cut socks, the glaring Vomero 5 ensemble on foot will surely stand out.
