Nike Vaporfly 4 vs ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo

Two of the lightest carbon racers, with almost identical weights and top review scores. The Metaspeed Sky suits runners who lengthen their stride as they speed up and has a roomier forefoot; the Vaporfly is snappier at toe-off.

By the RunShoeRotation team. Written October 2026; specs, scores and prices updated October 2026. How we compare shoes.

Which should you buy?

Choose the Vaporfly 4 if you want a snappy, efficient racer and your feet suit a narrow forefoot.

Choose the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo if you're a stride-lengthening runner who wants a bouncy racer with more forefoot room, for £10 more.

The Vaporfly 4 is 3 g heavier than the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo. It has 4.5 mm less foam under the heel. Its drop is 6 mm against 5 mm. It costs £10 less at full price.

Side by side

SpecVaporfly 4NikeMetaspeed Sky TokyoASICS
Review score95/100 (2 reviews)95/100 (2 reviews)
TypeRace dayRace day
Weight (men's UK 8.5)166 g163 g
Heel stack35 mm39.5 mm
Drop6 mm5 mm
CushioningBalancedBalanced
BounceSpringySpringy
PlateCarbon plateCarbon plate
SupportNeutralNeutral
FitTrue to sizeTrue to size
Widthsstandardstandard
Waterproof versionNoNo
UK RRP£240£250

Weights are for a men's US 9 / UK 8.5. Prices are UK RRPs; shops often sell for less.

What the critics say

Vaporfly 4

  • Soft, springy, speed-friendly cushioning
  • Locked-in upper that helps you push
  • Snappy plate at toe-off
  • Unstable at the heel
  • Heel hold could be better

Scores from RunRepeat, Road Trail Run.

Metaspeed Sky Tokyo

  • Very light and propulsive
  • More stable than the Sky Paris
  • Secure upper and good grip
  • Heel lift for some runners
  • Soft heel less suited to heel strikers

Scores from RunRepeat, Road Trail Run.

Paraphrased from published reviews.

What's new in each

Nike Vaporfly 4: About 10% lighter than the Vaporfly 3, with a lower 6 mm drop, a reworked carbon plate, a snugger upper and more outsole rubber up front. Same ZoomX foam.

ASICS Metaspeed Sky Tokyo: Lighter and more stable than the Sky Paris, adding FF Leap foam below the carbon plate and a roomier forefoot.

Prices for the Vaporfly 4 Prices for the Metaspeed Sky Tokyo

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