Puma Fusion Nitro Performance Review

 The Puma Clyde All-Pro proves to be a tough act to follow as the Puma Fusion Nitro drops the ball.

Traction

The traction featured on the Puma Fusion Nitro is one of two great aspects of the shoe’s performance. They bite the hardwood and black top well — really well — especially on lateral movements. However, the grooves are thin, so I’d think twice before choosing this shoe as your primary outdoor option. Unfortunately, the build couldn’t keep up with how awesome the traction was. That ended up leaving the shoe out of my on-court rotation.

Cushion

Puma uses its Nitro cushioning as the midsole along with a top loaded Pebax puck at the heel. I’ve worn Kyrie 8 cushioning from the running category before (it’s awesome by the way) but the basketball version feels much different. It feels more like a really plush PU rather than a Nitrogen-infused foam. They’re heavier than most other basketball offerings at the moment, but the added weight never bothered me due to the well-cushioned ride.

If Puma can continue to make its basketball shoes feel this good under foot then they have a real chance at gaining new customers.

 

Materials

The materials are awful and they don’t work well with the tooling used.

The traction bites hard which causes a quick stop. Momentum ensures the body continues to move a bit before coming to a complete stop and the knit build just can’t handle it. The pressure of stopping or changing directions caused the knit to stretch over the footbed more times than I’d like to admit. There is a thin layer of TPU that has been heat welded onto the knit to prevent stretching, but it just doesn’t work well.

If my foot was cupped by the midsole more than it is, then I think it would have helped greatly. But as things stand now, the shoe just offers a really unbalanced ride.

Fit

The air jordan 1 low fits true to size. If you need to go up a 1/2 size for any reason I’d recommend you stay away from the shoe altogether. If the build couldn’t even contain my foot with a secure 1-to-1 fit, then any additional room you have inside the shoe will be a disaster waiting to happen.

Lockdown is decent, but the soft build just doesn’t cut it.

Support

The support features are mostly there — heel counter and midfoot torsion shank plate — but the shoe is missing an outrigger. Something it desperately needs with the narrow base, rounder bottom, grippy traction and soft build. While you can have the basics added in the shoe, which this model does, it still has to work together ns a way that aids you on-court. Unfortunately, the Puma Fusion Nitro fails in that regard. And it fails miserably.

Overall

I still love the Puma Clyde All Pro. They’re in my gym bag as I type this and are my trusty go-to shoe for the past year and a half. I put them on the Best Basketball Shoes list a while back and they’re still on the list today. I was hoping the Puma Fusion Nitro was going to be an upgrade to the All Pro, but it just isn’t even close. I rolled my ankles without contact which is a huge letdown. Yes, the traction and cushion are great. But those aspects need to be able to work with everything else and that just isn’t the case this time around.

Balenciaga Transcends the Limits of the Runway

 A year ago, as the reality of lockdowns and social distancing sunk in, designers wondered if things would ever be normal again. At home in Switzerland, Demna Gvasalia did too — up to a point. “I mean, fashion shows and a row of cars waiting for people outside — does it all make sense?” he said. “To me, it hasn’t made sense for a long time already.” The pandemic has been a creative anvil for many designers. Think of Jonathan Anderson’s freewheeling volumes, the sharp modernism of Daniel Roseberry at Schiaparelli, the new range of Christopher John Rogers, and Virginie Viard, whose work at Chanel has acquired a nice, less-scripted edge. At Balenciaga X-Pander, Gvasalia sought to bring more 21st-century reality to the way clothes are viewed, by using A.I. and gamer technology, as well as video. Once known for his elaborate staging, he’s really escaped the limits of the runway.

Now he has presented his spring 2022 collection three months ahead of his peers, and again the mode of expression is in sync with the times. Essentially, the entire show — the models trooping down a catwalk, the black-clad audience looking on — is a ruse. There is, in fact, only one model, the Balenciaga regular Eliza Douglas. The rest of the girls are digital clones of Eliza, or Eliza with a wig, dark glasses or scarf. This is pretty genius: Why employ a whole cabine when you can clone one! The audience is also fake, though this was obvious. Everyone looked generic.  Or do fashion people actually look generic to an outsider — the same wardrobe, the same posture and frowns, the same … black cars?

Two years ago, Gvasalia did a marvelous show (set in a parliamentary-style assembly room) around the notion of power dressing and also how the media influences our perceptions. This latest show played with images and the hazy, creepy, now-familiar area between fact and fiction, the genuine and the counterfeit. The plainest example in terms of the clothes was Gvasalia’s take on the Gucci logo, a kind of riposte to Alessandro Michele’s use of Balenciaga’s name in April, part of what the designers call the Hacker Project. Instead of double GG’s on a belt buckle, Gvaslia has subbed in BB, as if the logo, and the aura around it, is mutable.

Balenciaga. Photo: Courtesy of Balenciaga

But what I liked most about this collection is the way Gvasalia further stepped away from classifications, whether “high” and “low,” “modern” and “classic couture.” There are, in fact, a lot of couture references, from the theatrical gesture of a high collar on an otherwise plain down vest or jacket, to the swagger of a big overcoat, the front drawn to one side in the style of models in 1950s photographs. Except a fat pin is holding the coat closed. To me, that gesture harked to the work of Yohji Yamamoto, who often delighted in the imagery of Parisian elegance and then broke it down.

So be it. That process of conversing with the past, altering shapes, is what keeps fashion moving forward. And Gvasalia is extremely forward-minded. One of the most elegant looks in the collection, I thought, was a loose-fitting, slightly off-shoulder jumpsuit, seemingly in black denim, with raver-style trousers. Other raver pants came with “Balenciaga” written in script on the bias, but despite the informality of denim, the effect was quite elegant and polished. A slim-fitting black leather dress was the counter-example: It fit with couture precision and required no details.

On July 7, Gvasalia will go live — that is, with an actual audience — for the first Balenciaga  2021 haute couture collection in several decades. It’s been in the works for awhile, and it will almost certainly allow Gvasalia to veer into new territory as he considers the profound shifts of the past year.

Alexander McQueen. Photo: Courtesy of Alexander McQueen

Also out this week is Sarah Burton’s fall 2021 Nike Kyrie 8 collection, its release timed closer to store deliveries. Inspired by flowers — anemones and water lilies — and photographed by Paolo Roversi, the collection continues Burton’s theme of “everyday couture.” That means lightweight fabrics like poly-faille, poly taffeta, and denim, all rendered with McQueen-level craftsmanship. Among the standout pieces are full-skirted dresses with a blossomy image of an anemone — after it has been crushed, photocopied, and printed. The effect is at once gorgeous and offhand. The lilies appear as almost watery looking, silver-embroidered blooms on T-shirts, sometimes draping below the hem and worn with cigarette pants and white sneakers.

That’s the mood: refined yet casual. By the way, in her pre-fall collection (released in May), Burton pivoted slightly from the sharp-shoulder tailoring that McQueen is known for, and indeed which is everywhere for fall. Tailoring is one of the biggest stories, as if timed for the return to offices and dressing up. Burton showed a double-breasted coat in navy cashmere with a softly built-up shoulder, not a razor line. It comes with a hefty price tag ($3,450), but, more, it comes with a built-in sense that the wearer is already distinctly and quietly different.

Nike KD 7 VII KD7 Elite Performance Review and Comparison

 Isn’t the Elite series supposed to be a step up? 

When I bought the non elite KD7 last summer and tried them on, I thought to myself KD finally got a shoe that is MVP worthy. Excellent cushioning and traction with newer Nike tech like 180 Max Zoom, Flywire, and Hyperposite. But then I  played in them and my heels slipped out of them like they were Solarsoft slides. I kept wearing them, hoping the Hyperposite would mold to my heels but to no avail and with that the KD 14 went back to Nike.  Fast forward a few months and KD dumped his 7s for his 6s as well .  The main problems for me aside from the heel slip was  1) poor containment due to mesh /Flywire forefoot area and no other structure like a foot stay or a higher midsole wall 2) 360 and 180 Max Zoom is too soft and unstable in the heel area 3) bad heel slippage as mentioned above.  It is no surprise to me KD ditched his KD 6 Elites as well . They felt great underfoot but were terrible on court for me. At least I have one thing in common with him. I hoped that Nike would fix these problems with Elite and they did somewhat.

THE CHANGES 

• Upper is entirely made of Hyperposite instead of half mesh and half Hyperposite
• Added perforations for improved ventilation
• Firmed up the 180 Max Zoom in the heel
• Dropped the midfoot strap

Before getting into the review, let me say that a sig shoe shoild reflect a players style and personality and the regular KD7 did but the Elite version does not. Hyperposite is Lebron, LaMarcus, Boogie and not KD. When I think of KD I think of light on the feet  and graceful smooth, fluid movements that require a lightweight smooth shoe not a shoe made of Hyperposite built for bigger players.

TRACTION

Traction is exactly the same as the regular KD7 and that’s a good thing. Sticky and consistent even on dusty floors. I don’t mind the translucent rubber and haven’t had any issues with it. 

FIT

Due to the material change, the Elite KD7 fit much tighter than the original especially at the forefoot since it went from ultra flexible mesh to Hyperposite. I still went true to size with my normal 11 just like the regular KD7. My forefoot and midfoot were locked in side to side but my heel still slipped like they did in the regular Kyrie 7.  It has to be moving up and down at least a half to one centimeter, it is that bad for me.  For me, Hyperposite is problematic in the heel area because it is meant to mold around your foot and not into. That’s why it starts very tight in the forefoot and midfoot and loosens up to give a custom fit and not vice versa . If it could grow into your ankle and heel we would be dealing with a living lifeform (or lifefoam?)Hmm

If Nike had contoured the inside of the ankle collar with more foam like the Kobe X or implemented a dog bone like they do with Jordan Brand then it would have been just fine. Maybe next year..

CUSHIONING

Although it isn’t in the tech specs, the heel Zoom is firmer than the regular KD7. Nike did a similar change with the Lebron X and Elite and they firmed these up about the same amount if not more. I do like this improvement  a lot because it helps improves response time and stabilize the heel area from dreaded rollovers.  These passed my heel test thanks to the increased Psi.  Forefoot Zoom feels exactly the same as the regular KD7.

SUPPORT AND STABILITY

I would normally say support comes from the fit but the sloppiness in the heel would mean support was almost nonexistent so support comes from the Hyperposite especially in the heel area. Even with a sloppy fit in the heel, the Hyperposite is stiff enough to at least keep your ankle from turning more than it should versus a more flexible material or soft heel counter. That being said, I try not to play in shoes wth sloppy heel fits at all since you’re basically allowing your ankle gather momentum inside your shoe to turn over.

Thankfully, the sole is nice, flat and the  heel Zoom is firmer to keep the shoe stable overall.

Same shank as the regular KD7

CONTAINMENT

Containment in the regular KD was ok but not great; it came from a slightly raised midsole sidewall, not the mesh upper or Flywire.  Since the Elite beefed up the mesh to Hyperposite, containment improved a lot.  My foot didn’t come out of the footbed at all on hard cuts

The sidewalls are about 1 to 2 mm above the base of my foot. Would prefer a footstay or a higher sidewall.

Flywire added some extra … Color  

VENTILATION

I usually don’t touch upon ventilation bc I really don’t care about it but since it is a marketing point I will.

 Perforations are placed in the shoe all the way from the midfoot and around the heel.

This allows some heat to escape since Hyperposite is thick and not breathable at all. The rest of the heat goes out the perforated tongue.

Most likely Nike did not put holes at the forefoot for cosmetic reasons; almost all your heat buildup is in the forefoot area on any shoe not just this one and putting holes in the front and back would have allowed air to come in like an open front window when you’re running.  That’s why the regular Dunk High had decent ventilation with its mesh forefoot upper.

CONCLUSION

I really wanted to love the KD7 and the KD7 Elite but the sloppy heel fit just ruined the shoe for me.  I really hoped that Nike would have addressed that issue with the Elite but instead they focused on materials changes and punching holes.  I like the theory of Hyperposite/foamposite but haven’t found a shoe that I have ever liked with it so covering the entire KD7 in it was not a plus in my book. It warmed and broke in a little but it just doesn’t feel natural to me.

 Does this natural ? I’m really working to flex this shoe .I think a thigh master is easier to squeeze than this.  Look how red my fingertips are. The overall stiffness of the shoe contributes to the poor heel fit. It gets better as it breaks in but still isn’t good. Imagine trying to walk with a wooden plank as a shoe; the wood won’t flex and follow your foot, same thing here.
I really tried liking the foamposite Pro and Lebron IV back in the day but  never did so maybe that experience ruins Hyperposite for me who knows .  I prefer the regular mesh forefoot upper by far and I don’t even like mesh uppers.  I really enjoyed the firmer Zoom in the heel since it improved stability without sacrificing impact protection.  If you’re still looking to pick these up, Eastbay already lifted coupon restrictions on these so you can get these for 20% off already. I suspect they will hit the outlets for even less though. I can safely say this shoe is a downgrade overall from the regular KD7 overall despite the Elite name and $50 increase in price.

The Archive:Under Armour Anatomix Spawn Mid and Lo

 How do you like my PEs?

The air jordan 6 has been popping up at discount stores like Marshall’s and Ross for $39.99 so I figured I might as well write my review on them since I played in them when they first came out. I recently picked up the lows and was pleasantly surprised.

Traction

I have never had a good experience in these when the floor was dusty. Every  experience had me on skates.Other reviews I have read raved about the traction but I never felt they grabbed the floor as well as UA’s other models.

On paper, and just by looking at the traction pattern, you’d think these would be ridiculously awesome but I found these to be only average.  On clean courts these work well but what shoe doesn’t ? I constantly had to wipe and never got the bite I wanted. What a tease. I think the problem is the grooves are too close together and the rubber isn’t very pliable.

Very similar to the Lillard 2 but not as sticky on clean courts. Unfortunately, I had to shelve these because of the traction alone.

*UA had modify the pattern and fill the “gaps” on the outsole because there were a lot of cases of the outsole falling apart. The Kyrie 7 is made without the “gaps” *

Cushioning 

Full length Micro G with a Micro G insole.

There is a distinct slope from heel to toe in the Spawn and it does take some time to get used to or at least prepare for the slope… Otherwise it feels a little awkward and annoying. However it goes away once you get used to it.

The forefoot isn’t as thick as the heel to enhance court feel.
It’s been awhile since I wore the Spawn and they feel fantastic. I think these feel denser yet just as responsive as the Clutchfit Drive set up.

Fit

The Spawn had one of the lamest marketing campaigns I have ever seen

The shoe that becomes your foot

(I wish I could find the print ad)

Really? That’s all you could come up with ?

I will say that there is actually truth in air jordan 1 high marketing because the fit is amazing. A really good litmus test of an exceptional fitting shoe is how well the shoe fits when you go up half a size or a full size. I bought my normal size 11 and these fit perfect and gave me my normal finger width of space. Recently I found some interesting colorways that were 11.5 so I decided to buy them anyways and surprisingly I fit these just fine as well even with a little extra toe box space.

No heel slippage , no deadspace in the toe box in either size.
UA was able to achieve this fit by mixing fuse and mesh perfectly.

Well done UA !
Support and Stability 

The fit definitely contributes to the support of the shoe but the Spawn Mid feels much more supportive and restrictive than the Clutchfit Drive. Keep in mind this was the first shoe Steph wore with UA so it makes sense considering he was coming off ankle injuries.

First and foremost contributing to the extra support is the heel counter.

  It is much stiffer than the Clutchfit’s heel counter and really keeps the foot locked in place.

The upper is a blend of Fuse and mesh and the Fuse is placed only where it is needed.
There is also a TPU frame running throughout the shoe to mimic the bones and tendons in the feet (at least according to marketing material) but I can’t complain because the shoe is definitely supportive.

Lastly, the arch of the medial side is built up to keep from rolling the ankles inward. Some people may like this while others will not.

 As an over pronator (flat feet ankle rolls inward)  who does need this, I did not like it at first but I got used to it and should actually play in these more to keep everything aligned properly.

Stability is good as these passed my heel test. Not as stable at the heel as the Curry Two but gets the job done in this regard.

Containment 

Since UA used Fuse where needed, containment was excellent. Slightly raised midsole helps keep the foot contained as well.

  No sliding out of the shoe on hard cuts at all. If the upper were made of mesh or woven, I would have slid out a lot more.

Conclusion 

Under Armour had been making great shoes for a few years but the Anatomix Spawn and Steph really helped put UA on the map (relatively speaking of course since UA has barely made a scratch into Nike’s share). If I played on pristine courts I’d wear these a lot more but since I don’t, I can at least enjoy staring at them. Everything about the shoe is fantastic (especially the fit) except the traction on dusty floors. The colorways are amazing as well, especially the PE’s.

This is one of the few shoes that I actually prefer the lows over the mids because I found the mids almost too protective.

If you can’t find the Spawn I, the II isn’t a bad option although I don’t like the upper nearly as much. UA replaced it with a full synthetic rather than a blend of synthetic and mesh and while the fit was good,  it just didn’t feel as natural with weird flex points. I’m sure a big reason for the change was due to durability of the mesh. Everything else remained the same though. You can still find these at outlets like Ross and Marshalls for under $40 which is an amazing deal for a shoe that “becomes your foot”.

Nike Lunar Control 3 Lc 3 Golf Shoe Performance Review

 It’s Masters Week so I felt this was appropriate.

Nike is a relative newbie in the golf world even though they entered the golf business by signing this guy back in 1997.

[caption id="attachment_86847" align="alignnone" width="1336"] Masters champion Tiger Woods holds a replica of the Masters Trophy after winning the tournament at the Augusta National Golf Club in Augusta, Ga., Sunday, April 13, 1997. (AP Photo/Bill Waugh)[/caption]

Nike has really improved as an equipment company but hasn’t really gained much market share despite having Tiger and Rory as the face of Kyrie 7.  However, their apparel and footwear sits nicely at 1 and 2 since that’s really the core of the brand.

I bought the first model of the Lunar Control about three years ago and the LC3 just blows them away. Actually the LC3 is one of the best golf shoe I’ve ever worn. Fantastic stability, great cushioning and traction and a nice blend of classic and modern looks.

Cushioning 

Full length Lunarlon provides a plush yet stable ride from heel to toe. Even though I’m walking on grass, it’s always nice to just have some responsive cushioning underfoot. New tech in cushioning has only started to show up in the past few years. The original LC only had targeted Lunarlon and it wasn’t nearly as thick as the LC3 as it was just two slivers at the forefoot and heel.

The first time I laid eyes on the LC3, the Lunarglide popped right into my head.

Excellent transition from heel to toe. I wish all golf shoes were made like this.

Support and Stability 

Supposedly the nike air force 1 shadow was made to help stabilize Rory on his downswing and if that’s true so be it.. But the extra wide base made out of real carbon fiber really gave the shoe a solid base to work with.  No tipping or swaying just plain solid.

Hmm full length Lunarlon and carbon fiber on a shoe that retails for under $170 .. What a pleasant surprise by Nike!

Traction 

 

Just a standard cleat system but with added texture in the middle (green) and built in plastic spikes at the heel and toe provide excellent traction.

Fit

I went with my normal sz 11 and these fit me perfectly.  The toe box is much more square than the first LC and I like that because my toes don’t get all bunched up as the toe box tapers into a point.

Nice little heel counter

I do wish the tongue was thicker but it works fine
Containment 

No issues with containment thanks to the synthetic upper. I rarely have any issues with containment in golf shoes with the exception of a mesh Tiger Woods Summer Shoe a few years back. I felt like I was about to fall out of the shoe walking on hilly surfaces.

Conclusion

I actually wrote this in 2015 and since then the LC4 came out. I only tried the Dunk High on in store and it feels almost exactly the same but slightly lower to the ground.  I’m hoping to pick some up once they hit clearance. Nike is going for an even more modern/athletic look and the LC4 is a very nice blend.
Regardless, the LC line is fantastic and has improved year over year. First few LC’s featured targeted Lunarlon and felt decent but adding full length Lunarlon made me really fall in love with this shoe. It was only a few years ago that golf shoes had a serious break in time but nowadays step in comfort is amazing from the get go. I’ve read some issues with Lunarlon going dead and compressing but I haven’t experienced that yet although I only get about twelve to fifteen rounds in per year. It’s amazing what Nike can do when they have to impress isn’t it?

Regarding the Masters.. It’s wide open but I’m pulling for Rory because and was so nice to everyone at the Dell WGC including yours truly.

Atoms Model 000 Performance Review

 The Atoms Model 000 is a straightforward casual shoe with an interesting twist in terms of sizing and fit, it’s available in quarter sizes. Any time a company does something fun with the way they sell nike pg 5, I’m immediately interested. So is quarter sizing a gimmick or does it actually translate into greater comfort? That’s what I’m going to figure out. Let’s get to it.

Fit

I wear a size US 11.5 in most brands. My foot is actually a touch bigger than an 11 when measured on a brannock device. I had Atoms send a size 11.5 and it fits exactly how I’d expect. Could I have sized down to an 11.25? Sure. But that would be less wiggle room in the toebox than I prefer. So while the Atoms Model 000 runs true to size, you can dial in the fit exactly the way you’ve always wanted and get a more customized 1:1 fit.

But what about wide footers? The 000 is wide footer friendly. But…you have to be patient. At first the shoe feels slightly narrow. You have to break them in. They mold to your foot nicely over time. Both the insole and the upper form around the lines of your foot. That’s helped by the high quality elastic laces (similar to what was used on the Air Jordan 1 Mid). The elasticity of the laces helps the upper accommodate all foot types with the added bonus of tying them once and never having to worry about it again.

Cushion

While Atoms doesn’t say the type of foam compound, I believe it’s a soft EVA. Think Nike’s Cushlon. Whatever it actually is, it’s plush enough for all day casual wear. I really liked walking in them. The Model 000 is a really good theme park shoe because it’s flat, neutral, and soft enough to allow you to be on your feet all day. I’m not sure how long the midsole will last, but I would guess it’ll be similar to other EVA midsoles where you get 300-500 miles out of them. That’s a lot of casual wear.

Materials

The Model 000’s mesh-like upper is a TPU yarn blend with only one seam at the heel. Other than the TPU yarn blend, the only other materials are the metal eyelets and elastic laces. Oh yeah, there’s also an antimicrobial lining on the insole which should keep the shoes smelling better for longer. It’s a very simple construction…everything you need, nothing you don’t.

 

Traction

The outsole is flat rubber with circles cut out to provide traction. It’s not great in snow, ice, or on slick wet surfaces. The Model 000 is 100% a summer shoe. So just be aware of that limitation.

Support

There’s not much support, this is a casual shoe after all. The tongue is gusseted to help keep you on the footbed and the rear end has a good-sized internal heel counter. It’s not much, but again, it does the job for a casual shoe.

Overall

The Atoms Model 000 is a simple, comfortable casual shoe. When offices open back up post-pandemic, it’ll be perfect for the occasion. At $129, it’s a little expensive given the materials used. Personally, I find it fun to support up and coming brands even if the shoe is $10-$15 too expensive. After all, competing against the kyrie 7 companies isn’t easy. I appreciate all of the small brands that try.

In summary, if you’ve been looking for something with a more dialed-in fit, the quarter sizing is perfect for you. And most important of all for a casual shoe, the comfort of the Model 000 is fantastic and it’ll work well as your summer do everything shoe.

About Nike Air History

 Nike Air is perhaps the most famous and beloved cushioning system available on the sneaker market. It’s bouncy and responsive and has been featured in many of your favorite Nike sneakers over the years.

Nowadays, we are used to seeing sneakers with plump, translucent plastic bubbles separating the wearer from the floor, but sneakers weren’t always like this. In fact, the actual concept of visible tech was one of the most disruptive innovations in the sneaker market, both from a performance point of view and as a marketing ploy.

In this article, we will break down what Nike Air actually is, it’s history, and what it brings to the table as a performance feature. We’ll also highlight some of the iconic sneakers that carry this tech. Let’s get into it!

Nike started using this revolutionary cushioning system even more during the 1980s. In 1982, one of the most recognizable and successful shoes Nike ever released featured the new Air cushioning: the Nike Air Force 1.

The Air Jordan 1 and the Air Jordan 2 also both featured Air-Sole units in the heel, and the first shoe to have visible Nike Air was the Air Max 1, which was released in 1987.

As simple as having exposed tech might seem, it was a massive stroke of genius. This revolutionary design upgrade was championed by none other than Tinker Hatfield himself. It became an invaluable marketing tool as well as a distinctive aesthetic element for Nike. Consumers could actually see the technology in action. Which is comforting when you’ve just spent hard-earned money on shoes. Visible Nike Air quickly became Nike’s go-to high-end cushioning system and was subsequently featured on the Air Jordan 3 and the Air Jordan 4.

By the time the 90s rolled around, Nike Air had established itself as the premier cushioning system on the market. In 1997, the first full-length visible Air Max unit was introduced in the Air Max 97. Other implementations of Air were also released, such as Tuned and 360. And maybe most importantly, another version of Air, named Zoom, was also released.

From budget models to signature line sneakers, everything Nike was putting out had some sort of Air in it. It has become iconic in the eyes of many. And what’s crazy is that the innovation continues today.

In 2017, Nike released Vapormax, their most ambitious cushioning set up to date. With absolutely no midsole carrier or much of a real outsole, it’s as close as you can get to actually walking on air. They also introduced the 720 Air unit, the largest unit to date, in both lifestyle and basketball shoes.

Nike also has begun to use Nike Air instead of a Strobel board underneath the foot. We’ve seen that in the Nike PG 4, Nike PG 5 and Jordan Zion 1. It’s one of the most effective and comfortable setups currently on the market.

After 30 years, Nike Air is still going strong and showing no signs of letting up.

Encapsulated Nike Air provides a durable and versatile cushioning experience. It can feel subdued when it is not implemented properly, but when it’s encapsulated air can provide a ton of impact protection.

Encapsulated Nike Air comes in the form of heel units, forefoot units and full length units. It can be designed in different shapes and sizes to cater to specific sports and activities, but it tends to be the smallest volume Nike cushioning system.

Air Jordan 36 Performance Review

 36 years and still going strong. The Air Jordan 36 Performance Review is here.

Traction

The Air Jordan 36 continues what the Air Jordan 34 reprised — herringbone. Tried and true herringbone traction. Outside of a radial pattern, there’s really nothing better.

With herringbone you receive simple, yet effective, multi-directional tread. This usually works well against a variety of court conditions and the same can be said for the Air Jordan 36. I was able to take the shoe out to three different indoor courts — a local 24 Hour Fitness, a privately owned and operated gym, and a pristine NBA-sized court. No matter where I played the traction was consistently good every time. I did take them outdoors as well with the same result — really good traction.

The only downside is for those that do not have indoor courts. It’s pattern and rubber are thin, although thicker than the Air Jordan 34 and Air Jordan 35. You’ll see wear on the outsole pretty quickly. However, you’ll receive some great traction while it lasts.

Something to keep in mind is the area where the additional Zoom Air cushioning system is in place. This is implemented like the “old” Unlocked Zoom Air setups that were found on the Air Jordan 28 through 33. The issue with this type of setup is that there is a pit in the midsole to allow the cushion to move more freely. This area of the rubber is weaker due to it not being glued to a midsole like it would be on traditional basketball shoes. That weaker area can sometimes result in the Zoom Air unit popping and deflating. The same could happen over time with this shoe. Nike will warranty the product, but it’s something to consider before dropping $185 plus tax and shipping.

Cushion

Zoom Air is back, but this time around they’ve gone back to a full-length setup. Something we haven’t seen since the Air Jordan 31. However, this time around, the full-length Zoom unit is the strobel board, so it sits directly under the insole and closer to the foot. There is an additional, and more traditional, forefoot Zoom Air unit located in the forefoot. The setup is similar to the Nike KD 13 with the exception of the bottom loaded forefoot Zoom Air protruding from the outsole a bit. This is to make the Zoom Air feel even springier than it already does — acting like a piston under-foot.

The setup is very well cushioned while maintaining court feel, but there is a wobbly feeling underfoot due to the protrusion. You get used to it rather quickly. Personally, I prefer the previous unlocked Zoom Air setup from the Air Jordan 34 and 35. Those models offered a wide stable base along with massive Zoom units under the foot. You received great stable and responsive cushioning without the slight wobble.

This isn’t a deal breaker for me, but I do feel like this was a bit of a regression in terms of design. The Air Jordan 34 and 35 perfected the usage of Zoom Air. The Air Jordan 36 feels more in line with what Jordan Brand was doing a few years ago. If they would have used both Zoom Air units just like the KD 13, then I think these would have been even better than they already are.

Materials

The main material featured is a leno jacquard weave. Visually, it might be a bit jarring to some. The build is see-through, yet, it’s supposed to keep you supported during gameplay.

The leno jacquard weaving, despite how it looks, is deceptively strong. It looks like dental floss but has the strength of more traditional jacquard builds. Outside of sb dunk , this type of weave is used for produce bags (onions, potatoes, cabbage), shellfish bags (oysters, mussels and clams), firewood bags, curtains and drapery, mosquito netting and even clothing. The type of weave provides strength, but the yarn used will enhance its strength — which is what we have here. Lightweight, breathable and incredibly strong.

Fit

The Air Jordan 36 fits true to size, but might be on the narrow side for some. If possible, I recommend trying the shoe on in-store. If you wear orthotics or an ankle brace, make sure you bring them with you when you try the shoes. You’ll need them to get the proper size to accommodate them.

Lockdown was solid all the way through. From the forefoot all the way up to the ankle collar. No issues whatsoever.

Support

All the support features you need are there. Internal heel counter. Midfoot shank plate. Secure 1-to-1 fit. They even have a fairly wide base. The only issue was the protruding forefoot Zoom Air. It has a wobble that you’ll notice until you get used to it. Once that’s done, you’ll be good to go.

Overall

The Air Jordan 36 continues the lineage of high octane performance driven signature footwear that started 36 years ago in 1985 with the Air Jordan 1. While I still feel the Air Jordan 34 is the best basketball shoe Jordan Brand has made since the Air Jordan 28 and 29, the Air Jordan 36 is close behind. I’d definitely take them over the Air Jordan 35 without a second thought. However, after playing in these, I can’t help but wonder what the Air Jordan 38 has in store.

Curry 8 Flow Performance Review

 Boy was I excited for this one – and you should be too! Presenting to you my comprehensive, outdoor-based Curry 8 performance review.

I don’t usually like to go all the way in calling a shoe a “next-gen” shoe due to its innovations tech-wise or design-wise for that time period, but you know what? I could be able to pull it off with the Splash Brother’s first independent brand shoe, the Curry 8 Flow by Curry Brand & Under Armour.

Or could I?

I’ve been playing in these for a couple of months now (pretty much since they dropped at my local online retailer) exclusively on outdoor courts.

One’s a blacktop and the other’s a  synthetic rubber court. You know, those bouncy, rough surface courts that aren’t as unforgiving as concrete but still harder than indoor hardwood.

So to put all things into perspective, I’ve broken down the shoe for you from a practical standpoint. Is this a true “next generation” product that’s worth getting and lives up to the hype? Is it worth the $20 price increase? Is it a well-rounded shoe? Does it hold the test against regular outdoor play?

Let’s find out.

I. FIT & COMFORT

SIZING: UP 1/2 A SIZE

Let’s dive right into how these fit. Not an exaggeration – I don’t think anybody should go with their regular size when shopping for the Kyrie 7.

These definitely run small. I’ve seen some guys recommend going up a FULL size for a wider foot, and while I do think that might be overkill, going up half a size is recommended for most. Including those who have a narrow foot or a thicker, wider one.

Going up 1/2 a size myself and having a very wide foot, these still felt just a little too compact compared to how I’d ideally prefer. Although it might not be the size itself but how the internals of the shoe are constructed.

I don’t think anyone should go up a full size even if your toes are right at the edge after going up 1/2 a size. With such a minimal upper, minimal support features, and the way the shoe is sculpted, you’d most likely run into containment/lockdown issues.

GET READY FOR TOE BUMPS

Just like most people/reviewers were reporting – the shoe has a slight issue with keeping your foot 100% in place due to the incredibly minimal upper. Pair that with a slightly elevated heel area, and my toes were in a war.

Every time I did a quicker linear move (a stop-and-pop, a heel strike, etc.), my whole foot marginally shifts forward, resulting in an uncomfortable toe bump with the toebox.

Now, I’m not saying it’s a total dealbreaker as it’s not really felt while running or anything that doesn’t involve a quick/immediate linear motion, this still kinda spoiled what the shoe had to offer comfort-wise.

I’ve never seriously hurt my toes but after a longer session with these, those things definitely wanted some rest, that’s for sure.

But looking past that issue, the Curry 8 is comfortable. Very comfortable.

COMFORT: IT JUST FLOWS

Some say it might even be top 10 or even top 5 all-time comfortable. While I don’t think I’d be able to pick out just 5 or even 10 most comfortable shoes of all time, all I know is the Curry 8 is extremely pleasant to wear and play in, as long as I kept ignoring those damn toe bumps.

Firstly, it’s insanely light. I don’t know how it stacks up sheer numbers-wise compared to other light basketball sneakers but playing in these felt like I’ve got nothing on my feet. Ventilation is decent, every single heel-to-toe transition was almost ridiculously smooth and there’s some really nice foam padding around the ankle & achilles.

And then there’s the Flow cushion which, well, flows very nicely. But wait, there’s also an ultra-soft knit upper along with a very minimal, compression sock-like ankle collar which stretches out as much as you want it to, so the shoe is always super easy to put on.

Say what you want about the debatable choices durability or support-wise but, man, they absolutely nailed optimizing the fit and just how they feel on feet.

But perhaps it’s better described as not feeling anything at all, as at times I do manage to forget about those toe bumps and the experience becomes so smooth it’s not even funny. If someone would tell me the Curry 8 weighs 8 ounces and I didn’t know the truth – I’d probably believe them!

Bottom line, make sure to go up 1/2 a size, get some grippier socks on (ideally with a textured finish to minimize those toe bumps), lace ’em up tight, and enjoy the ride. If you value comfort – this is your jam.

II. TRACTION

The big thing about the Curry 8 was the fact that not a single inch of rubber was used. Not on the outsole, not on the midsole, nowhere. In fact, there’s no such thing as a distinct outsole & midsole here as the whole white bottom piece is made of lightweight foam.

With that came the concerns about the durability and effectiveness of the outsole, as science would tell you foam is a lot less reliable compared to rubber and its properties are vastly different. Well, let me begin by saying the traction on these is DEADLY. I mean every single part of that word.

I don’t know too much about how this particular foam was blended but it sticks to the floor like glue. The stops are instant with these. Not a single inch upon a stop, cut, change of direction, you name it.

In my LeBron 18 review, I said the cushion setup used on that shoe might be approaching a point where it’s almost too much. Well, with the Curry 8 Flow, I’ve come across a similar scenario, just with the traction. How grippy is too grippy?

While these barely squeak at all (it’s foam, duh), the bite is so aggressive it almost feels like it could throw you off balance if you’d let it to. Imagine yourself running at 30 miles an hour and then completely halting without any easing into it. If you’d have the Curry 8’s slapped on, you’d probably fall with your face flat on the ground.

I think this is right on the edge of the limit. This is incredible traction. Anything more might just be too much. So while I wouldn’t be able to tell you my top 10 most comfortable shoes of all time, if I had to put together such a list but traction-wise, yep. The Curry 8 would be there.

OUTDOOR DURABILITY: PRETTY GOOD FOR FOAM!

But are they reliable for constant outdoor use? After all, most of us are still only able to hoop outdoors. While 2+ months isn’t really an ideal period to make conclusions on the shoe’s outsole durability, so far they’re holding up well.

Not ONCE I had to wipe the outsoles off despite playing in a worn synthetic rubber court or the blacktop. There is some visible damage in the forefoot area, along the lateral side, and in a few other high-use areas. A handful of lines of the pattern are completely burnt off but fortunately, I don’t feel affected by this.

As long as this foam sticks due to its nature and the core base of the traction pattern is left intact, these will probably hold for a while. Not top of the line durability, sure, but definitely more reliable than today’s average modern hoop shoe which is usually indoor-focused.

III. CUSHION

UA’s brand new Flow cushion debuts with the Curry 8 and while it’s nothing we haven’t seen or felt before, it complements what the shoe is trying to deliver extremely well.

If you’ve played in a Curry shoe once or twice before, this shouldn’t feel that different, though I have to admit more cushion is offered than in pretty much anything we’ve seen from the shoe line. The shoe also rides higher than a typical Curry shoe, so people used to minimal, low-profile rides might feel a difference.

This cushion accomplishes two main things. One, it offers the same usual formula you’re used to seeing on a Curry shoe: a very fast, responsive & stable ride, smooth step transitions, and a sense of court feel.

And two, it does all that significantly more comfortably than the rest of the Curry sneaker lineup. More impact protection this time and, although minimal, but a slight bounce feel underfoot.

The heel area compresses a little bit but never too much, so you’re just as fast as you’d be on any other Curry. It’s just a little softer, and a little more pleasant this time.

The forefoot area is lower to the ground and feels firmer. Not completely dead but you won’t feel any bounce or apparent cushion. It’s all about speed and precision up there.

But it’s the smooth running transitions and overall flow of movements that make this setup fantastic. The heel is slightly elevated while the platform is slightly curved up at the front and while this is nothing new, it seems that they really nailed it here in terms of precision.

This feels like a high-end runner that happens to have additional qualities of a basketball shoe. If you’ve happened to do some runs in a higher-end pair of runners, you know how smooth those can feel. The Curry 8 is right along those. It’s comfortable. It’s not overdone. It’s efficient. Stellar job.

IV. SUPPORT

The support department is where things get a little interesting.

Do I think it’s a failure in terms of delivering security? No. But I do think the shoe was made with a handful of specific playstyles & builds in mind. Not saying this is bad but it would be tough to call the Curry 8 a very versatile shoe.

It’s nicely balanced, sure. But I’m sure there will be several guys who will require more support than what’s offered here. And that’s just the truth.

There is a rather small plastic heel counter in place along with a sculpted achilles pad inside, so my heel was both nicely padded and cupped in a secure manner. No issues with heel slippage. The platform of the shoe is wide and almost flat, so overall stability isn’t bad.

There are also these synthetic overlays along the sides which help with lateral & medial foot containment and the foam itself extends a tad bit laterally, acting as a mini-outrigger.

The medial sections of the foam do come out a little more, which does help plant off the inside foot more confidently. There’s also a small torsional plate for some torsional rigidity.

I never personally reached a point where I thought this isn’t enough for me but I’d be lying if I said I’d like a little more structure ideally. The upper is so minimal and flimsy, there aren’t enough strong support features in place to hold your foot together if you’re heavier or you’ve got an explosive/athletic playstyle.

While I’m not a big guy, I’m an explosive guard and did experience a handful of slides out of the shoe’s footbed. Not the best ankle support either. The tiny outriggers and a stable base helps prevent bad stuff from happening but a larger outrigger could’ve been welcome to help catch the foot on a more awkward plant/step.

I feel like this setup is pretty much made for Curry as he wears his hardcore tank-looking ankle braces, so I guess he’s set. But for guys at the frontcourt, heavier players, or anyone who plays with a lot of athleticism, there are better options out there.

But we can’t take away what the shoe accomplished. It’s not like it’s not supportive at all, as it is. Comfort, speed, and mobility are the clear points of emphasis here. If that’s your cup of tea or it matches how you play – you’re in serious luck!

V. MATERIALS & BUILD

The upper is what you call “barebones” – a thin knit covers most of the shoe while the synthetic plasticy material is layered along the medial & lateral sides to help containment. There’s also some Fuse overlays along the toebox, the back, and a few other high-wear areas.

And the whole bottom is just foam. That’s it. No raw materials, no huge shank plates, no carbon fiber, no real structure. It’s comfortable, absolutely. It’s seriously light, fairly breathable, and feels like a joy to wear. Except for the toe bumps.

But this type of comfort and a runner-like build undeniably comes at a cost. I don’t see these as very reliable for consistent blacktop action.

A season or two, probably. I’m not seeing any damage yet but it only makes sense to think a knit with no real extra structure isn’t going to last as long as leather, nubuck, suede, or even a more structured synthetic would.

Is it a good buy for $160? Depends on what you’re looking for. You’re definitely getting maximum comfort and mostly solid performance. If you’re looking for “premium” materials, the knit used here is nice but that’s up to you to decide if it’s worth the $160.

No real use of genuine materials might also throw some people off but hey, if people are complaining about that now, I guess they should’ve complained much earlier as the Curry line has been using primarily synthetic materials for a while now.

The lacing system is traditional but the shoe is a one-bootie upper, meaning it’s a single piece of material. No separated tongue, nothing like that. Not that important performance-wise but something you should know.

For those who aren’t fans of one-bootie uppers, this one’s a great example of one done very comfortably. And the shoe isn’t a nightmare to put on like some other one-bootie shoes, so you should be fine.

So bottom line, your typical modern use of minimal synthetic materials is utilized all over the Curry 8. If you’re no newcomer to these types of builds – you shouldn’t be surprised with the shoe.

VI. OVERALL

The Under Armour Curry 8 Flow is a breath of fresh air, that’s for sure. It takes comfort, freedom, and mobility to another level but there are still ways to improve. I think it’s a near-perfect shoe for a Curry-like player. Very quick, on the lighter side, mobility and precision are the pillars of his game.

But for the rest of us, perhaps mainly the heavier & bigger players, or for those who have more of a high-flying style of play, you might need something with a little more structure.

The shoe is mad comfy but be aware of the toe bump issue. Traction is phenomenal, Flow cushion is very nicely balanced without taking away anything, support could be better but it works for what it is. The upper’s a lightweight knit with minimal reinforcements so while it’s very comfortable and efficient, it might not last as long.

You can take these outdoors. Even regularly. I’m just not sure for how long. If you’re planning on playing outdoors regularly and would like to future-proof instead, the shoes on this list are the best options.

The Curry 8 is a very interesting shoe, to say the least. If you’ve always appreciated a Curry shoe before and would like something a little more comfortable – this is a KD 14 on steroids. I’ll leave it for you to decide if that’s your thing!

Nike Kyrie 3 vs 2 Performance Review and Comparison

 Executive Summary: plays almost exactly the same as the Kyrie 2. Similar firm cushioning and very good traction. Shoe starts stiff but breaks in. No real reason to buy the 3 when the 2 does nearly everything the same or better though.

Pros: traction, court feel, fit, support and stability, containment, very durable

Cons: traction pods protrude and cause a little bit of inconsistent traction in the heel, needs periodic wiping on dusty floors on Non pod portions, cushioning needs break in and is very stiff and firm like the Kyrie 7, materials start stiff but break in, not the best value out there especially now that sale time is upon us.

Sizing: true to size, very wide footers will probably want to go up half a size

Best for: guards looking who value response and quickness; players who liked the Rose 4

Buying Advice: wait for sales, Nike made a lot. $90 is fair, $65 is near the bottom. Or just buy the Kyrie 2

Weight

14.5 oz which is pretty average

Kyrie 2 is the exact same weight

Traction

If there is one thing you can say about the Kyrie line, it’s that it’s traction patterns look aggressive.

The main attraction of the Kyrie 3 traction is the use of traction pods in the forefoot that ride up the sides.

The rubber is softer and raised a millimeter or two from the rest of the shoe.

 The concept works and the pods do their job very well. The rest of the shoe is a blade pattern or modified herringbone and feels softer than the Clutchfit Drive herringbone but firmer than the Kyrie 2 rubber.  I wish the entire outsole was made of the pods’ rubber or Nike put some of these pods throughout the entire outsole like the AJ XX because on a few occasions I’d spin out at the heel since the forefoot stuck better than the rest of the shoe. This occurred even on pristine floors. Nitpicky I know.

One concern with the traction pods is durability and efficiency once they wear down. I think they will still work fine once they wear evenly with the rest of the outsole but expect more wear in that area due to the softness of the rubber.

Overall traction is very good overall but I feel the Kyrie 2 provided better consistent traction overall especially on dirty floors since it is the same rubber, pattern, and depth throughout the outsole. Neither required too much wiping but the 3 needed a few more wipes per session. Not quite top tier stuff but still good overall.

Cushioning

Here is the tech highlight of the Kyrie 3. The rest of the shoe is Phylon just like last year’s.

If you did not like the cushioning on the Kyrie 2, you will not like the cushioning on the Kyrie 3. Say with me again, if you did not like the cushioning on the Kyrie 2, you will not like the cushioning on the Kyrie 3. One last time..

Cushioning is very firm on the Kyrie 3 just like the 2. It starts off very very stiff but softens a little with break in. I could feel the Zoom a tiny bit just like on the 2. It is serviceable and responsive as Randy noted but I just prefer a little more softness in the forefoot because I have Morton’s neuroma in each foot.  The good news is that the neuromas didn’t flare up badly but I could feel some buzzing after an hour just like the 2’s. I prefer a more balanced cushioning feel overall and these are just a little too hard for my tastes. The set up feels almost exactly the same as the Rose 4 except the Rose 4 has a thicker PU insole. Very low to the ground and quick feeling.

*interstingly enough if you check out air jordan 36 see the Kyrie actually sits at nearly 18 mm which is higher off the ground than the Harden V1 or CLB. Of course that’s not accounting for the insole thickness which probably evens it out. Thanks reader Pflite*

Although this didn’t really affect cushioning much, these two changes make the cushioning on the 3 feel a smidge firmer:

Number 1

The Kyrie 2 featured Poron in the forefoot while this year’s does not. Hard to really tell a difference but to the touch Poron is softer.

Number 2

The Kyrie 2 had an ortholite insole while this year’s doesn’t have the ortholite markings so in guessing it’s not ortholite. Anyways, the name doesn’t matter but the Kyrie 3 insole is very thin and flimsy like a limp noodle (it can barely hold its shape when I took the pic) plus it feels slightly thinner towards the middle than the Kyrie 2 insole. It’s as if someone wore down the insole of the Kyrie 2 and put it into the Kyrie 3. That’s how thin it feels to me. On Adidas Boost models, the thin insole is fine since it has all that Boost below it but with this firm set up, Nike really should have given us a thicker insole.

If you’ve ever played in basketball ball in tennis shoes like the Adidas Barricade or even the Nike Zoom Vapor 9, that’s what the cushioning feels like. Actually the Zoom Vapor 9 has the exact same size Zoom and a similar if not thicker Phylon set up from heel to toe including the foam strobel.

However, the Nike SB Dunk feels better because the insole is thicker. If you want to improve the comfort level of the Kyrie 3, get a bigger size and put in a thicker insole to add a couple of millimeters more of cushioning.  Keep in mind that it might feel better underfoot but one or two millemeters isn’t going to fix any knee issues you might have.

Fit

I bought my true to size 11 and initially thought I should have gone up half a size. However, after playing in them a few weeks, true to size was the way to go. Even though I’m a wide footer, these stretched out enough for me. If you’re Fred Flintstone, you should at least try half a size up before deciding on the correct width though.

There is no movement in the forefoot, very little deadspace above the foot in the toe box and zero heel slip. Midfoot fit is still tight like the previous models but not deathly like the Kyrie 1.

After a few hours of break in time, you almost forget they are on your feet as the upper softens up. Almost

Even though the Kyrie 3 has a very good fit, the Kyrie 2 has an even better fit due to the strap that helped pull the ankle and heel back further.

Materials

In case you’re part of the Night’s Watch or need to defend Winterfell….

The materials start off stiff but soften up quickly. They don’t feel Flyknit soft or anything but they do soften up enough after a few hours of break in time. The spiked look doesn’t really convey a soft warm comfy feel does it?

The lateral side of the upper is a similar fuse  as last year’s model

Not cracker crispy like the Kyrie 1 but not definitely not Snuggles soft.

The medial side and toe box is mesh with a nylon backing and feels a lot softer than the lateral side. The front of the toe box does have a hard rand for durability as well.

I’ve noticed this is a trend these days as shoe companies have added strength and stiffness to the lateral side for containment and support while leaving the medial side soft for flexibility. Hmmm, maybe I did make a difference .(I’m kidding I don’t have that kind of pull)

Of course we can’t forget the featured marketing portion which is the forefoot flex area.

Across the top of the foot,  a long stretchy band flexes with your foot for support during quick cuts and sprints. 

Nike used a thinner mesh and Flywire to allow extra  flexibility at the forefoot.  I don’t it feel stretches at all but that thinner mesh allows for a more natural flex area. Plus it’s hard to quantify if it really works since the rest of the upper is so much stiffer than this little area.

If you’re big on materials and have to have that pure Flyknit or Primeknit or mesh feel, you probably will want to steer clear of the Kyrie 3. I think the materials are fine and don’t affect playability but every person has different needs and wants.

Support and Stability 

Support is good with the Kyrie 3 thanks to the fit, heel counter and stiffer fuse on the lateral side. Just plain and simple, solid support. As stiff as the upper starts off, it is plenty flexible like the Kyrie 2 and isn’t going to save any ankles

Nike continued with the curved outsole but didn’t choose to market it this time around.

It seems slightly less curved in the forefoot than the Kyrie 2. After not playing in the Kyrie 2 for a year you can feel a difference with the curved outsole but it doesn’t make a difference for me in terms of performance.

Also helping with the stability was the firm, low to the ground cushioning.

Overall just a solid supportive and stable shoe. Same as the Kyrie 2.

Containment

No surprises here as containment was excellent thanks to that stiffer lateral fuse upper as well as the raised midsole. Softer materials might be all the rage but there are benefits to using stiffer and stronger materials like Fuse.

Conclusion 

Not the best value out there but a good performer overall. The Kyrie 3 has great traction, a good fit with solid support and stability and very firm cushioning. I had no issues with aches or pains but then again don’t have knee or back issues (knock on wood). The Kyrie 3 just feels like a quick high cut tennis shoe for players that value lateral quickness over everything else.

Cushioning will come down to personal preference and if you didn’t like the 2 cushioning you will not like the 3. I’ll even qualify that statement with this; If you don’t like UA Charged you will not like cushioning on the Kyrie 3. Charged foam is easily thicker bouncier and softer. If you want to improve the comfort of the Kyrie 3, size up and swap out the cheapo insole.

Is the Kyrie 3 an upgrade over the 2? No I don’t feel it did anything better than the Kyrie 2.

Is it worth paying $120? No probably not. There are plenty of shoes out that at the $120-$130 range that do everything just as well or better than the Kyrie 3. Curry 2, 2.5, 3 all come to mind.  Plus it’s almost mid season so there are plenty of sales on earlier launches.  Do not buy these if you want a softer cushioning set up or if you want a Charmin soft upper material. 

I’m guessing Nike made a lot of these to capture the new Kyrie fans post championship. If Kyrie 2 sales are any indication, these should hit $90 under range soon and bottom out around $65. If you want a marginally better performing and cheaper shoe, stick to the Kyrie 2.