The short version
The Vector Tempo uses a forefoot-only plate rather than the full-length carbon of its flagship sibling. It returns almost as much energy, costs a third less, and holds its shape better.
What the lab measured
Energy return 70.6 percent against the flagship’s 78.4. Durometer 51C with a four-point drift. Critically, the partial plate showed no measurable delamination at 400km, where full-length plates typically begin to separate at the midfoot.
Weight 247g, stack 36mm heel, 28mm forefoot.
Where it disappoints
The transition at the plate’s rear edge is noticeable at slower paces. Below about 5:30/km it feels like a step rather than a roll.
Verdict
For anyone running tempo sessions rather than racing, this is the smarter half of the range.
