The Altra Vanish Pulse is a neutral road running shoe and the Nike Apex is a road running shoe. The Vanish Pulse costs about $200 less (from $150). The Apex is 2.5 oz lighter (5.9 oz vs 8.4 oz).
Specs side by side
| Spec | Vanish Pulse | Apex |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $150 | $350 |
| Rating | 3.7 / 5 (13 reviews) | — |
| Weight | 8.4 oz | 5.9 oz |
| Heel-to-toe drop | 0 mm | 0 mm |
| Heel stack height | 22 mm | — |
| Cushioning | Firm / responsive | — |
| Support | Neutral | — |
| Surface | Road | Road |
| Available for | Men & Women | Men & Women |
Specs and prices from Altra and Nike, checked 2026-10-11. Weight is usually for a men's size 9–10.
Which should you get?
Get the Vanish Pulse if…
- you want to spend less
Get the Apex if…
- you want the lighter shoe
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