Review of Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next%

Basic parameters:

• Weight: 279 g (size 44.5)
• Drop: 10 mm
• Type: training-racing

Responsiveness and bounce

Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% are shoes designed for people who want to train at near-race paces. The biggest advantage of this model is its very high responsiveness and a distinct feeling of “bounce” during faster runs – especially noticeable at a pace below 4:15/km. The use of a composite plate and two Zoom Air pods in the forefoot translates into easier acceleration and maintaining high speed for longer. At slower paces, the shoes lose stability and are not as comfortable.

Cushioning and comfort 

The Tempo Next% offers a lot of cushioning, which means that even long workouts on hard surfaces do not tire the legs as much as in classic racing shoes. The ZoomX foam combined with React provides softness under the heel and springiness under the toes. The fit of the upper is very good – the shoes hold the foot well, although for some they may be a bit narrow in the midfoot.

Grip and stability

The biggest drawback of the Tempo Next% model is poor grip on wet surfaces, especially during faster runs (around 4:00/km). The outsole can slip, which causes psychological discomfort and forces caution on corners or during sudden changes of direction. On dry asphalt, the shoes perform very well, but in rain or on damp surfaces, they clearly lose confidence.

Durability

Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% last almost as long as classic training shoes, but they have a tendency for the sole to crack – according to my observations, this problem affects about 2 out of 3 pairs. The cracks do not significantly affect comfort or performance, but they may cause visual concern. Other elements of the shoe, including the upper and the air pods, are durable and do not cause problems even after hundreds of kilometers.

Summary

Nike Air Zoom Tempo Next% are very good training-racing shoes for runners looking for responsiveness and cushioning during fast workouts. The composite plate and air pods genuinely help in achieving better times. I recommend this model mainly for dry surfaces – on wet asphalt, the grip is a major downside. If you are looking for a shoe for fast training and occasional races, and you don’t often run in the rain, the Tempo Next% will meet your expectations.

Final Ratings:

• Comfort: 4/5
• Cushioning: 4/5
• Dynamics: 4/5
• Grip: 2/5
• Durability: 1/5

Average rating: 3/5

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