One of the most popular tennis shoes in the world gets an impressive update. Enter the Nike Vapor Pro 3.
Playtest Review
-New Zoom Unit = More comfort
-Revamped Upper and tongue to improve the fit
-On the comfortable side of Speed, the Vapor Pro 3 is a tennis shoe for everyone.
First Fit
While the outsole tread remains the same as in the Vapor Pro 2, Nike overhauled the upper with a midfoot band and redesigned the tongue. Key sections of the upper get reinforced with Hart rubber compound for improved protection. Putting on the Vapor Pro 3, I didn't have any inherent stiffness. There was a comfortable flex right out of the box, and the metatarsal area was pillow-soft thanks to the new Zoom unit.
A Tennis Shoe for Everyone
While the Vapor name implies an exceedingly light shoe, the Vapor Pro is NOT that. The Vapor Pro 3 is much more about a comfortable ride, and it is light enough for elite play, but most importantly, it is comfortable enough for everyone. The redesigned upper helps the lacing system wrap the foot better, so players with different foot types will be able to find their sweet spot.
Durability
HART Rubber! This new compound wraps the eye stays and medial toebox to protect the upper in high-wear areas. The enhancements will make the Vapor Pro 3 tougher than the previous model, while still being flexible for speedsters.
Comfort
When i have foot issues, it is always in the forefoot. And the Vapor Pro 3 has prime cushioning where I need it most. There is ample cushion in the heel section, but tennis players are supposed to be on the balls of their feet, ready to react. So the forefoot placement of the Zoom Air unit is ideal. Refinements to the upper allow you to tie the shoe tighter, which increases your confidence in a lock-down fit.
The Vapor Pro 3 is a lot of shoe for a fair price, and you get tons of performance for your dollar. The shoes are available for Men and Women, with PRM versions which are released in conjunction with the major championships.
