The Hoka Mach 5 follows the fan-favorite Hoka Mach 4 and the Hoka Mach Supersonic, a WearTesters favorite, that was released earlier this year in April.
Tyler: Every Summer, I ramp up mileage and gravitate toward lightweight and faster-feeling shoes to keep my legs and feet feeling fresh. The Hoka Mach 5 couldn’t have come at a more perfect time. While there may be some quirks about it, if you’re a fan of the Mach 4, Hoka took what was already a great shoe and cooked up something fantastic for its fifth iteration.
Drew: I loved the Hoka Mach Supersonic and put a ton of miles on them. Some people I heard from didn’t like the Mach Supersonic’s upper. Personally, I thought it was comfortable and well-fitting. If the Hoka Mach 5 can reproduce similar results, I’m excited.
Hoka Mach 5
Release Date: June 2022
Price: $140
Weight: Men’s 8.2 oz, Women’s 6.8oz
Drop: 5mm (24mm forefoot, 29mm heel)
Sizing: True to Size
Rundown: The Hoka Mach 5 is a lightweight, comfortable, bouncy, and right-priced daily running shoe.
Pros
Comfortable Ride
Weight
Price
Cons
Rubberized EVA Outsole
Narrow Fit
Pros
Comfortable Ride
Tyler: The ride and cushion of the Hoka Mach 5 easily exceed that of the Mach 4, which was nearly perfect in every way. Much of that can be attributed to the PROFLY+ construction, a dual-density setup with responsive foam right beneath the foot and rubberized EVA directly below that (we’ll get to the rubberized EVA soon). This combination leads to such a rewarding feel, both picking up the pace or picking up groceries. I typically try to keep my running shoes off my feet unless I’m running, but these started sneaking into my casual wear, which is a great sign.
Drew: To me, the Profly+ and rubberized EVA outsole combo is bouncy, protective, and an all-around winner. The stack height measurements of the Mach 5 aren’t high by today’s standards but you don’t notice the lack of foam. Contrast that with the Air jordan 1 where the lack of foam results in jarring footfalls and minimal impact protection. Instead of feeling like something is missing, the Mach 5 is smooth at any speed and a reliable shoe day in and day out.
Weight
Tyler: The spec sheet says a men’s size 9 comes in at 8.2 oz (232g), and even though my 13 would add a few more grams, this thing is LIGHT. Crazy light. Disappear on your foot kind of light. With the Georgia heat really bearing down, longer runs can really hit hard, but I found that the minimal weight of the Hoka Mach 5 really shines in later miles when you don’t want anything to slow you down.
Drew: When a shoe’s stack height isn’t tall, like on the Hoka Mach 5, it has to be light. And as Tyler mentioned, the Mach 5 definitely feels light. Going fast in the Mach 5 never feels sluggish. The ounce count doesn’t even tell the whole story. The Mach 5 is well balanced between the upper and midsole/outsole to allow it to work with your foot and never against it as you might feel on a heavier daily running shoe like the Hoka Bondi 8.
Price
Tyler: $140 for the Hoka Mach 5 is a no-brainer. Considering how versatile, lightweight, and cushioned the Mach 5 is, I could see this being a $160+ shoe, but I’m glad to see Hoka keeping the price in check. I’ve already eyeballed another colorway I want, so I’ll likely be lining up for a second pair in short order and won’t be concerned with spending the money for a terrific sub-$150 shoe.
Drew: I thought the $150 price point of the Hoka Mach Supersonic was a good value proposition so paying $140 for the Hoka Mach 5 (a very similar shoe) is not a problem at all. I agree with Tyler, the Mach 5 is priced below what the market would allow.
Cons
Rubberized EVA Outsole
Tyler: Similar to the Mach 4, the Hoka Mach 5’s outsole shows wear and tear pretty quickly. Granted, I’m a bigger runner, but after an initial 5K, signs of degradation had started. Many will argue that it’s simply a result of keeping weight down, which is true, but I’d give up some weight savings to have a bit more rubber coverage on the outsole. It’s not a deal-breaker, nor has it affected performance, but I will keep an eye on it to see how it fares.
Drew: Outsole durability was my only complaint with the Mach Supersonic and it’s the same story with the Dunk Low. My high wear areas (lateral forefoot and heel) are wearing quickly. The rubberized EVA outsole can’t match the longevity of the typical rubber outsoles on most modern running shoes. So yes, you’ll have to retire these sooner than you’re used to, but at that point, they can transition nicely into casual shoes.
Narrow Fit
Tyler: I talked about this during our Bondi 8 review, but the recent batch of Hoka’s I’ve tried have run a bit more narrow than in the past and the Mach 5 is no exception. While not as drastic as the Bondi, I did feel it was a more snug fit for a standard-width shoe. For those who have wider feet, I would recommend trying a wide version before committing.
Drew: Similar to the Mach Supersonic, the Hoka Mach 5 isn’t as wide as a typical Hoka shoe through the midfoot. The toebox is still roomy and the upper materials are more forgiving than the Mach Supersonic, so while a wide version won’t be a necessity, I’m glad it exists. If you’re worried about the fit, just order from somewhere like Fit sporting goods and utilize their 90-day free return policy.
Hoka Mach 5 Summary
Tyler: If you liked the Mach 4, you’ll love the Hoka Mach 5. With its peppier underfoot feel and a bit more overall cushion, it’s a fast and fluid ride that can handle a wide variety of runs. Not to mention, it looks fast and is fast! At $140, this is a shoe that you need in your rotation.
Drew: To sum it up, the Hoka Mach 5 is a lightweight, comfortable, bouncy, and right-priced daily running shoe. True, the outsole durability could be better, but you won’t regret grabbing it, it’s that good.
Asics entered the super shoe race (ahem) last year with the well-received Metaspeed Sky and Metaspeed Edge. The Asics Metaspeed Sky+ takes the learnings from Asics’ first year making high-stack marathon racing shoes and pushes the envelope. The “+” usually denotes only small tweaks but the Metaspeed Sky+ could be named the Metaspeed Sky 2. It includes several changes that improve the overall package and place the Metaspeed Sky+ at the top of the marathon racing shoe pyramid.
Asics Metaspeed Sky+
Release Date: June 2022
Price: $250
Weight: 7.2oz
Drop: 5mm (34mm forefoot, 39mm heel)
Sizing: True to Size
Rundown: The Asics Metaspeed Sky+ is one of the best marathon racing shoes on the market.
Pros
Toe Spring
Traction
Stability
Airflow
Cons
Motion Wrap Upper
Pros
Toe Spring
The forefoot of the Asics Metaspeed Sky+ looks bulbous. There’s a ton of FF Blast Turbo foam underneath the forefoot. And that foam, when paired with a sharply curved carbon fiber plate that sits fairly close to the foot, does a heckuva job. Every footstep I took compressed that big hunk of foam so it could rocket back into position and provide me incredible bounce. Only the Nike Alphafly Next% ever gave me this much bounce. It’s just in a different league from most shoes.
As weird as it is to say this, some people (I’m thinking runners who bounce up and down while they run) might think the Metaspeed Sky+ has too much bounce. But I think the majority of people training and running marathons will really enjoy the impressive toe spring.
Oh, and the midsole also provides great impact protection. The day after a hard workout your legs will feel much better than they would after workouts in most shoes. This is an upper echelon midsole and a huge selling point.
Traction
I’ve had mixed results with traction on the various Asics runnings shoes I’ve tried throughout the years. But the AsicsGrip outsole on the Metaspeed Sky+ never slips. I ran speed workouts on a wet, mildewy boardwalk and it held firm. My go to shoe for wet weather races used to be the Curry 4 Flotro but now the Asics Metaspeed Sky+ has taken the top spot. I trust it completely no matter the conditions.
Stability
The midsole on the Asics Metaspeed Sky+ also feels more stable than the first generation. The Asics team changed the geometry and width of the midsole ever so slightly but the result is a shoe that hugs the corners and never feels wobbly.
A lot of modern-day marathon racing shoes really struggle in the stability department but the Metaspeed Sky+ feels like the midsole is built with a giant forefoot outrigger (really just the shape of the midsole acting as an outrigger). The outrigger provides support and structure as the foot sinks into lateral foam when planting hard into the ground. It’s a great shoe for race courses with lots of curves or those annoying 180-degree turns that some courses have.
Airflow
The Motion Wrap Upper is somewhat see through and that’s a good thing. When you’re racing, your body temperature climbs. The Asics Metaspeed Sky+ takes care of the air conditioning. Well, at least for your feet. The textile upper just gulps the air to keep your feet as cool as possible. There’s even some cutouts towards the bottom of the heel cup to let even more air escape. It’s a great setup for racing and summer running.
Cons
Motion Wrap Upper
While the Motion Wrap Upper on the Asics Metaspeed Sky+ excels in breathability, it’s got a little too much volume in the forefoot. This is a super small quibble but I know some people really dislike extra space above their toes when racing. The forefoot doesn’t feel as sleek and form-fitting as it should.
The Metaspeed Sky+ fits true to size and the forefoot is widefoot friendly, but its still a bit poofy even for wide footers. The upper feels like its barely there but the lack of structure affects the forefoot ever so slightly. I don’t view it as a huge deal because the shoe is so good everywhere else, but it’s worth mentioning.
Speaking of mentioning small things, the tongue is a super light synthetic suede that does the job but I wish it would have been slightly more padded. And the barbed lacing looks like it would hold tight no matter what but when it gets soaked (as often happens on summertime long runs), it immediately comes untied. So, just in case, double knot when going long or racing.
Asics Metaspeed Sky+ Summary
The Asics Metaspeed Sky+ is an impressive marathon racing shoe. It’s light, peppy, grippy, stable, breathable, and super bouncy. I’d put it alongside the air jordan, Nike Alphafly Next%, and Puma Fast-R Nitro Elite as my current personal favorite marathon, long run, and speed workout shoes. Other brands have new race day shoes coming out soon but I have a hard time imagining them surpassing what Asics did with the Metaspeed Sky+.
The New Balance TWO WXY V2 has a lot to offer in terms of performance. We’ve seen Dejounte Murray of the Spurs rock these on the court, most notably during All-Star weekend.
Colorway: Night tide with pink glow
Release Date: May 2022
Price: $130
9.5/10
Total Score
The New Balance TWO WXY V2 is the newest team model from New Balance. After the success of the OMN1S and original TWO WXY, we were excited to get these in hand. And so far, it looks like our expectations will be met and maybe even exceeded. There are significant changes from the original TWO WXY, from cushion to materials, and it all seems to be for the better. Continue reading for Jalique’s complete performance review.
Traction
As mentioned in the initial review, the Two Wxy V2 outsole pattern reminds me of two of the best outsoles ever, and it did not disappoint. While I’m not surprised by how well they performed, I am surprised New Balance found a way to significantly improve what was already a great run of hoop shoes in the traction department.
Using much thinner rubber than previous shoes in NB basketball Shoes, the V2 outsole covers you in any direction. Make sure you cinch up well in a pair of these – if you don’t, you may find yourself twisting out of the shoe on directional changes. That’s how great the bite is.
These may not last a very long time outdoors, but while they last, you’re in for a treat.
Cushion
The softest version of FuelCell foam in NB’s basketball category also sees the addition of the Abzorb Dynamic Response System in the heel. The V2 midsole rides super smooth and low to the ground while providing an acceptable amount of cushion and comfort.
The foam and gel combined with Dunk protect against the impact on heel strikes and response as you transition from heel to toe. I can rarely play extended periods in a pair with this much court feel without regretting it. The Two Wxy V2 stands out in that capacity.
Materials
FitWeave Lite goes thinner than the Kawhi 2 yet remains as strong in the upper. I thoroughly enjoyed the flexibility and reduction of break-in time to nearly zero. While the outside may feel a little scratchy, the textile inner lining is nice and cozy, leaving you without worry as you play.
As a bonus, the ‘Neon Lights’ colorway I tested uses nice, buttery nubuck around the collar and tongue, which is a joy to feel while putting the shoe on, if nothing else.
Fit
I went true to size and found this to be a great fit, which I recommend for others, including wide footers. Just make sure to readjust lacing when you have opportunities. Keeping things tight will keep you in the shoe when that outsole starts chomping on the floor during hard cuts and changes of direction.
Support
I had an overall positive experience with all that the Two Wxy V2 provides as far as support goes. The heel is internally and externally stabilized over the soft midsole, and you sit within it enough to help with containment. The base is low and flat enough to keep you securely connected with the floor and a good fit and strong upper.
My nitpick in the support realm is that I wish the torsional bar could have been beefed up just a little. Overall, this wasn’t a huge issue for someone that plays like me, but I could imagine some players that put a little more torque into their shoes needing more than what comes out of the box.
Overall
The New Balance Two Wxy V2 provided a near-flawless experience while testing, making it one of my favorite hoop shoes to play in thus far this year. Maybe some will prefer a little more cushion in the forefoot or torsional support, but for what the shoe gives, there is not much to complain about. I recommend the Two Wxy V2 to anyone interested, especially if you have had a good experience with New Balance’s 574 previous basketball offerings. This may be their best pair yet.
The Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 aims to build upon the success of the original HOVR Drive. But despite doing some things very well, the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 falls short in other categories. Are the successes enough to cover up the shortcomings? Let’s find out.
Under Armour HOVR Drive 2
Release Date: March 2022
Price: $160
Weight: 11.9 oz
Sizing: Roomy, go down 1/2 size for a more snug fit.
Rundown: The HOVR cushion is top-notch, but a shoddy fit and lockdown issues make this shoe a little harder to enjoy.
Pros
HOVR Cushion
Traction
Breathability
Cons
Fit
Lockdown
Pros
HOVR Cushion
Fresh off of my review of the Under Armour HOVR Tour SL, I’ve been pretty high on HOVR, and the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 gave me even more reason to fall in love with Under Armour’s proprietary cushion.
The Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 was stacked with full-length HOVR, and it felt even better than the Tour SL, which I loved. From what I can tell, Under Armour just packed this thing full of KD 15…you can never have too much of a good thing right?
It felt extremely responsive, stable, and oh-so-comfortable under foot. The HOVR felt awesome during my swing, but it really stood out as a winner when walking around in the wastelands trying to find my wayward tee shots, (trust me, there were plenty). The cushion left me feeling energized, not lethargic.
Traction
Spiked traction is hard to mess up, but I’m still going to give Under Armour kudos for the great traction on the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2.
The cleats provided fantastic rotational grip, a must for powerful swings. As you hit the downswing, if your feet start to rotate and slip, you’re going to lose all of the kinetic energy and power. Thus keeping your feet stable and firmly in place is key to efficient energy and power transfer from your body to the golf ball.
Under Armour nailed this idea of rotational grip, and I couldn’t be more pleased with the traction. As I say, spiked traction is hard to mess up, but Under Armour took it a step up with Rotational Resistance Traction on the HOVR Drive 2.
Breathability
I’ve found that most companies struggle to make a breathable TOUR golf shoe, mostly because they also have to make the shoes waterproof…those two things are pretty much opposites. However, I thought Under Armour struck the right balance between waterproofing the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2, while also keeping it breathable and cool
Thanks to strategically placed holes in the side of the shoe, I didn’t find my feet getting all hot and sweaty, even in the 107-plus degree temperatures that I’ve been playing in. The holes and extremely thin waterproof membrane were just enough to keep me cool…or cooler than I would have been otherwise.
Cons
Fit
The fit on the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 is a little concerning. At first, I thought it was just me, but after doing some research and reading other’s experiences, I can say with confidence that the toe box of the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 is extremely roomy…so much so that I’d suggest sizing down at least a 1/2 size to get a better, 1 to 1 fit.
And it wasn’t just the toe, I found the way the heel was sculpted really made the shoe feel larger on that side too. Not that I felt I was swimming in my normal size 11, but there was enough wiggle room that I would definitely go with a 10.5 next time.
Lockdown
The larger than normal fit was not helped by the lockdown of the Under Armour HOVR 2, which was average at best. Now to be fair to the shoe, part of the lockdown issue was the way they were laced. But until I finally decided to use the lace holes back towards the heel, I was constantly sliding forward in these shoes.
Once I made the decision to use the extra lace holes, lockdown improved, but I found myself struggling to tie them due to a lack of lace real estate. I just managed to muster up enough lace to tie them, but it wasn’t as seamless as it should have been.
If you’re going to grab a pair of these, I would definitely suggest using the extra lace holes towards the back of the shoe. Be aware that you may have to really choke down on the laces to have enough left at the end to properly tie them.
Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 Summary
All things considered, the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 should be defined by its great cushion, traction, and breathability, but I found myself spending more time worrying about the fit and lockdown than anything else.
The mark of a good golf shoe is the ability to put it on and forget about it. With the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2, I spent less time focusing on my golf game, and more time focused on how to keep my feet from shifting forward within the shoe.
Would I suggest picking these up? If you’re a wide footer who wants awesome cushion and great traction, I’d say go for it. Other than that, make sure you try these on first, so you can get the best size to help with the fit and lockdown.
Let’s talk all about the Jumpman. But we’re not talkin’ lifestyle Retros or hypebeast Travis Scott’s. We’re talking hoops. For those who are interested in getting familiar with the brand and making a smart purchasing decision, here’s ALL you need to know on how to buy Jordan basketball shoes in 2022 and beyond.
Using my own experiences with Jordan hoop shoes as well as research, I’ll break down the current Jordan basketball shoe catalog, what to expect from a Jumpman sneaker, the best places to grab ’em for cheaper, give you my current rotation of kicks, and top it all off with some bonus questions & answers.
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A JORDAN HOOP SHOE?
Here’s what I noticed about Jordan hoop shoes that seem to be a pattern among most of ’em
While it’s impossible to put a variety of different shoes in a single group as each sneaker is different, it’s pretty evident that they are a few qualities that Jordan hoop shoes often share.
For someone who’s new to JB’s basketball sneakers, here are some of the reoccurring details I’ve noticed on several Jordan shoes I played in throughout the years.
VERSATILITY
What exactly is a versatile basketball shoe? For me, that means it can suit many different players’ needs whether you’re a guard, a big, athletic, low-profile, you name it.
95% of Jordan hoop shoes I’ve tested and reviewed seem to be very well-rounded, meaning they can provide the necessary performance for just about any style or build.
It might not drastically excel in one particular aspect but I feel like Jordan kicks offer just enough to give players what they need the most, no matter who they are.
The React Elevation, the Zoom Separate, the Jumpman Diamond, the flagship Air Jordan 36 – just to name a few versatile options. Look up reviews on just about any Jordan basketball sneaker and tell me they’re not versatile!
I think there’s a reason for Jordan sneakers being versatile though. Just take a look at their lineup of signature athletes: Jayson Tatum, Russell Westbrook, Rui Hachimura, Luka Dončić.
They’re all versatile two-way players that can do just about anything on the court. They specialize in certain areas, of course, but a balanced game is something most of those guys stand behind.
GUARANTEED SECURITY
One specific performance trait I’ve noticed about Jordan hoop shoes is a heavy focus on security for the player.
I’ve hooped in about a dozen Jordan performance models and despite their differences in pricing, materials used, or cushion technology – most models felt very supportive for the foot.
This means that proper structure is always thought of when building a Jordan shoe, so is a supportive chassis as well as a wide base to provide stability.
TECHNOLOGY FROM NIKE
Did you notice that both Nike and Jordan hoop shoes share mostly the same technology? If you’ve spotted both a Nikey and a Jumpman model featuring Zoom Air cushion or a Flytknit upper – this isn’t a mistake.
For what might seem obvious to a seasoned sneaker consumer, newcomers might not be aware of this.
The Jordan label is actually owned by Nike, so even though both brands have their set of different products, most Jordan stuff is still trademarked by Nike.
This is why technology (cushion, support systems, materials, etc.) is shared across the two labels.
A PRICE TO PAY
Last but not least, we all know how luxurious the price tags can be for kicks by the Jumpman, and this is commonly no different for their performance basketball models.
While their team models are less expensive than most of the prestigious Air Jordan 1 mid models or even other signature lines, the pricing on average is still higher than just about any other brand.
Expect to spend at least $130-$140 for a lower-tier shoe from Jordan, and all the way to $185+ for their flagship shoes.
II. JORDAN BASKETBALL SHOES: WHAT’S AVAILABLE?
Let’s break down the entirety of the Jordan basketball shoe catalog in a practical way
Pinbackground image source: nike.com
Jordan doesn’t actually offer nearly as much variety as Nikey does. The Jordan athlete roster has been filling up lately but as of right now, we only have a few signature shoe lines, as well as a few team models.
Russell Westbrook, Zion Williamson, and the man himself, Michael Jordan, are the main signature athletes for Jordan Brand. However, Luka Dončić is coming to the roster very soon, so be on the lookout for his debut sneaker.
With that, let’s break down the entire catalog of Jordan’s basketball shoe offerings.
THE AIR JORDAN LINE
The very first Air Jordan model arrived in 1985 and Michael Jordan’s signature shoe line has been going strong ever since, even despite MJ’s retirement in 2003.
It is single-handedly the most influential sneaker line in terms of basketball, streetwear, and the culture of sneakers in general. However, we’re not here to talk about classic retros for styling purposes.
We’re concentrating on basketball performance and that’s what the Air Jordan models from around 28 all the way to today are all about.
This is where you’ll find flagship technology, highest-grade build quality, but also steep pricing.
You generally get what you pay for though, and if you manage to get yourself an Air Jordan 28 all the way to the 36 (and counting), you’ll mostly be good to go no matter your style or build on the court.
SIGNATURE ATHLETE: Michael Jordan
PRICE RANGE: $160-$185
SHOES AVAILABLE: 36 and counting: Air Jordan 1 – Air Jordan 36 (certain models also feature low-top and SE variants)
BEST FOR: most players. Particularly bigger guards, wings or two-way players
PROS: ✔ flagship technology & build quality ✔ suits just about any player ✔ yearly release
CONS: ✖ the most expensive Jordan line ✖ mediocre for outdoor play ✖ not very casualf-friendly: recent shoes are all about performance
MY FAVORITE SHOE: Air Jordan 34
THE ‘WHY NOT?’ LINE
Russell Westbrook lives and breathes by the motto “Why Not?” and his main signature shoe line resembles this with flashy colorways and extravagant designs all over his sneakers.
But in terms of performance on the court, the ‘Why Not’ shoe isn’t a slouch either.
They’re fairly well-rounded sneakers that can do a bit of everything. However, explosive, fast & athletic hoopers will surely enjoy his sneakers the most due to fantastic linear performance, energetic cushion systems, and excellent support without abundant restrictions.
They also happen to fall in the mid-tier pricing spectrum but if you’re interested in what they offer, I recommend reading up on individual model reviews.
Quite a bit of wearers seem to report that performance isn’t always consistent model by model.
SIGNATURE ATHLETE: Russell Westbrook
PRICE RANGE: $120-$150
SHOES AVAILABLE: 5 and counting: Jordan ‘Why Not?’ Zer0.1 – Jordan ‘Why Not?’ Zer0.5
BEST FOR: all-around players, explosive guards, athletic wings/forwards
PROS: ✔ versatile shoes at mid-tier prices ✔ some of the models are among the most supportive shoes you can find
CONS: ✖ a no-go for casual wear for a lot of people ✖ often mediocre build quality for a flagship signature
MY FAVORITE SHOE: Jordan ‘Why Not?’ Zer0.4
THE ONE TAKE LINE
If you’re liking what you’re seeing about the ‘Why Not’ sneaker line but can’t afford to spend $100+ on a pair – shift your attention over to the One Take line.
This is Westbrook’s secondary (takedown) sneaker line that offers similar qualities to the ‘Why Not’ shoes but is made with affordability in mind.
Expect solid all-around performance with these models, decent versatility (though they’re still best for bigger/more explosive hoopers), and prices that start falling quite quickly after each model’s release.
The main caveats I’ve noticed about most of the One Take shoes are mediocre outsoles in terms of durability and they’re quite narrow in construction, so wide footers like myself won’t be playing in these too much.
SIGNATURE ATHLETE: Russell Westbrook
PRICE RANGE: $100
SHOES AVAILABLE: 3 and counting: Jordan Westbrook One Take I – Jordan One Take III
BEST FOR: all-around players, bigger guards, wings, linear-dominant movements
PROS: ✔ solid all-around performers on a budget ✔ quick to go on sale due to little demand
CONS: ✖ questionable traction for lateral movements at times ✖ mediocre for outdoor play ✖ not the best options for wide footers
MY FAVORITE SHOE: Jordan Westbrook One Take I
THE ZION LINE
Currently, the newest induction to the Jordan family is Zion Williamson. His first sneaker, the Zion 1, is the only shoe available during the time of writing this guide, and for a debut model – it’s pretty solid.
Available for $120 at retail, the Zion 1 gave me excellent comfort due to a plush Air Strobel unit going from heel to toe, great outdoor traction, a decent upper, and a wide foot-friendly fit.
Be careful if you’ll be playing indoors though, as lots of hoopers who spend their time in a gym reported questionable grip. Also, narrow footers will probably want to go down half a size from their usual choice.
SIGNATURE ATHLETE: Zion Williamson
PRICE RANGE: $120
SHOES AVAILABLE: 1 and counting: Jordan Zion 1
BEST FOR: bigger/heavier players such as wings or forwards, athletic styles, linear-dominant movements
PROS: ✔ a solid performer for just $120 ✔ very comfortable for long periods of wear
CONS: ✖ questionable traction indoors ✖ fits long ✖ support heavily relies on a perfect fit
MY FAVORITE SHOE: Jordan Zion 1 (the only one available so far)
THE TEAM MODELS
Pinsource of the shoe images: nike.com
Apart from signature lines, Jordan also releases a few team performance models each year. During the time of writing this guide, the main attraction would be the Jordan Zoom Separate – a shoe endorsed by Luka Dončić.
I was never a huge fan of either team model by JB but not to say they’re bad basketball shoes.
It’s just that you could find fantastic performers that offer the same (if not more) for less $$$ when you take a look at what adidas, Under Armour, or even Puma has to offer.
Expect mid-tier tech specs and build quality from these models, solid all-around performance, and pricing in the $100-$140 range.
My favorite sneaker in the Jordan team model catalog would have to be either the React Elevation or the more recent Zoom Separate.
III. WHERE TO BUY JORDAN HOOP SHOES?
Here are the main places to look at when shopping for a Jumpman basketball sneaker
Pin
Let’s get started with the basics of purchasing a Jordan basketball shoe.
If you’re extremely cost-effective and always strive to spend the least amount for the best product possible – you might want to skip over to the next section.
However, for those who value convenience over everything else and are okay with paying retail pricing (or close to it) – here are the main places you should look at when buying Jordan basketball sneakers quickly & easily.
FOR CURRENT RELEASES
This one’s a no-brainer. All Jordan basketball sneakers released the same year you’re interested in them are available at the retailer’s website. So, your primary option would be to visit Nikey if you want a fresh pair of current models.
If Nike/Jordan doesn’t have your size or desired colorway, your next best bet is to visit any other popular sports retailer.
Those would be the likes of Finish Line, Foot Locker, DICK’s Sporting Goods, Champs Sports, or any other you’re aware of.
These sports retailers use a similar formula to the manufacturer, meaning they usually have the current models in stock for over a year.
Shortly after, clearance hits, and new models are brought in while older releases go on sale until they’re fully replaced with fresh stock.
FOR SLIGHTLY OLDER RELEASES
If you’re interested in a pair that’s, say, 2-3 years old and isn’t available on Nikey – you’ve got a few alternative options.
Something I noticed is one sports retailer in particular, DICK’s Sporting Goods, often has some leftover stock still available while other retailers have long wiped theirs.
So if you can’t find the shoe on Nikey or your favorite sports stores – I always recommend checking DICK’s since they tend to have some surprises.
However, some sneakers simply aren’t going to be available anywhere in terms of sneaker retailers. This is when I often check Amazon for such shoes.
Believe it or not, Amazon actually has some really good stuff that’s a few years old. About 6-12 months after the stock has been cleared up on sneaker retailers is when I tend to see some of these shoes emerge on Amazon.
FOR DEADSTOCK SHOES
For Jordan hoop shoes that passed the 3-4-year-old mark and aren’t available on any convenient sneaker/sports store anymore – it’s time to take your efforts over to deadstock marketplaces.
StockX and GOAT would be the go-to places to shop for deadstock shoes and if you’re shopping for performance models – you won’t see all of that ridiculous pricing that you get for hyped/vintage models.
I know that the reception on these marketplaces is fairly mixed. Some people had a tough time getting shoes from them, while others claimed they received unauthentic pairs.
I personally never had an issue with StockX or GOAT (not saying there’s no chance I will in the future), so it’s always best to read up on opinions from both sides instead of focusing on just one.
IV. HOW TO BUY JORDAN BASKETBALL SHOES FOR CHEAPER
If retail prices aren’t cutting it, I’ve got some important tips to share on saving as much $$$ as possible
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It’s time to talk about saving cash – a topic that’s extremely relevant for Jordan products as they tend to get very pricy. If you can’t always afford to pay full retail, there are several critical points to remember in order to land the best possible deals.
These methods work for just about any basketball shoe including JB’s. So take note and you’ll be well on your way to buying the same stuff for less $$$ if you’re patient.
NEW-SEASON CLEARANCE
Clearance is the meat & potatoes of saving cash when shopping for basketball sneakers. What is it? Simple. Let’s break it down.
Retailers have current stock in 2021. A year flies by and 2022 arrives – Jordan releases new basketball models. The models released in 2021 are now considered a season old and retailers will try their best to push out these shoes as quickly as possible in order to have space for the new 2022 stock.
That’s when huge sales and discounts emerge for these 1/2-year-old sneakers which can still be fantastic options to play in.
So if you’re patient and okay with hooping in a slightly older shoe (which you absolutely should be these days) – late summer/early Fall is the golden period to track down huge sales on Nikey/Jordan, other sports retailers, Amazon, or just about anywhere else.
BACK TO SCHOOL & SUMMER SALES
This goes hand-in-hand with clearance: early Fall (September) is also the back-to-school season for a lot of apparel & footwear labels.
While performance products aren’t usually the focus at this time, there were a few cases when I managed to cop a discounted pair of basketball shoes during this time.
The same goes for the summer period. Early-mid June and even prior to that, late May are when stores typically launch their summer sales.
If you’re looking for the biggest possible savings and have the ability to do some live shopping, sports outlets are the GOAT of saving $$$ on Jordan basketball shoes.
The United States has some really awesome outlet stores that have plenty of discounted pairs of hoop shoes pretty much 365 days per year.
Ross, TJ Maxx, and Marshall’s would be the most notable ones. If those aren’t available in your region, you can find a brand outlet just about anywhere in the world (Nike/Jordan outlet).
UNCOVER MORE METHODS TO SAVE $$$ ON JORDANS
I could ramble about how to buy Jordan basketball shoes all day here but I want to keep this one brief.
I break down these methods above in greater detail as well as provide some additional tips & tricks such as becoming a brand member, using Honey, or learning the yearly sale patterns for each brand.
V. MY FAVORITE JORDANS TO HOOP IN RIGHT NOW
Here’s my latest rotation of Jordan sneakers I love hooping in the most. Click on the shoe name for a full review
Air Jordan 34
& 180 USD 🏆 8.4/10
The 2019’s AJ 34 is STILL my favorite Jordan basketball shoe to date. It’s a shoe that clicked for many people and so it did for me.
It’s tough to explain how the AJ 34 feels without you actually trying it. One word that stands out for me is seamless.
From the Zoom Air cushion feeling smooth as butter, to the ultra-comfy textile upper that’s actually strong AND lightweight – everything about the 34 felt right.
It’s also a shoe that will do the trick for wide footers, it should last a while outdoors (not the most durable outsoles but still pretty good) and you can track these down under retail on StockX or GOAT now.
Air Jordan 36
$185 USD 🏆 8/10
As hard as it is to top of the 34, I feel like the 36 comes at a fairly close second for me in the Jumpman repertoire.
The only area where I noticed a slight downgrade is comfort. This new Leno-Weave upper is surely a phenomenal creation as it offers some of the best durability while staying ultra-lightweight but comfort took a slight step back due to it.
Apart from that, everything else feels right at home with the rest of the AJ lineup: versatile performance.
Fantastic full-length Zoom Air Strobel cushion, amazing step propulsion thanks to the Eclipse Plate, solid traction, and strong support without overly restricting the player.
Jordan Zoom Separate
$ 110 USD
I’m almost done with the testing period of the Jordan Zoom Separate and it looks like things will be closing out on a good note for me.
It’s a shoe that didn’t overly impress me or caught me off guard in any way but everything I need from a sneaker on the court – I felt like I received. Mostly.
The Zoom Separate gave me solid traction (though I did need to wipe the outsoles down quite often indoors), lightweight support, and a wide foot-friendly fit.
The main thing I didn’t appreciate about these is forefoot-focused cushion. It’s not bad per se but as someone who does plant with their heel at times, I missed impact protection in that area a bit.
VI. HOW TO BUY JORDAN BASKETBALL SHOES: BONUS Q&A
Let me give you some bonus nuggets you might find useful about Jordan hoop shoes
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While I was writing this guide, a few things popped into my head that didn’t particularly fit any section here.
I thought I’d answer some of the questions a newcomer/average consumer might have about Jordan basketball models.
WHAT DO EP, PF, AND OTHER LABELING MEAN ON JORDAN/NIKE SHOES?
When searching for Jordan/Nike basketball sneakers, sometimes you might come across a model that has ‘EP’ or ‘PF’ included in its name additionally. Let’s break down what all of those mean.
EP: Engineered Performance. This is for Nike shoes, and it means that the shoe has been constructed overseas.
Everything about the sneaker is shared with its U.S counterpart but XDR rubber outsoles are additionally slapped on for better outdoor durability and a wider fit will often be featured with this edition as well.
PF: Performance Fit. Jordan’s labeling of the same thing essentially (Nike’s EP).
PE: Player Exclusive. Some Jordan shoes are endorsed by athletes and those players will receive exclusive colorways made by Jordan specifically for them.
SE: Special Edition. Some models like the Air Jordan 34 received an alternative version after the initial release. This could mean virtually anything. The Air Jordan 34, for example, received a material upgrade with its SE variant.
OVERSEAS VS. UNITED STATES JORDAN SHOES: ARE THEY DIFFERENT?
This ties into the EP/PF question. If you’re buying a Jordan shoe outside of the United States, you’ll essentially receive a pair that’s equivalent to the EP/PF pair in the U.S. (unless specifically stated otherwise).
This means that XDR rubber will be featured on the outsoles, and commonly also a wider fit.
SHOULD YOU BUY OLDER RETROS FOR BASKETBALL?
This is a question that many hoopers have divided opinions on. We see NBA basketball players wearing old-school Jordan 4’s, 11’s, or others during games – so it’s only right for us regular hoopers to wear those as well, right?
I don’t believe it’s that simple. But I don’t think you should overcomplicate it either.
If you like an older shoe – try it out and see if you like playing in it. There are no rules about what you should or shouldn’t do. However, there are some things to remember.
Retro Jordan kicks don’t offer the same technology and design innovation as the newer stuff does. They’re considerably heavier, bulkier, and less comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
They’re also harder to obtain as we all know just about any AJ in the series that’s up until the 28 will cost you a pretty penny.
I personally don’t play in older models just due to performance reasons but you are always welcome to try and see if it’s for you.
VII. CONCLUSIONS
Wrapping up the guide on how to buy Jordan basketball shoes: main takeaways and final words
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That officially wraps up everything to know about buying Jordan basketball shoes! I believe this will be an excellent resource for entry-level Jordan basketball sneaker buyers. I truly hope you found at least some of it useful!
While Nikey is still the king of the sneaker market, the Jumpman is a prestigious brand that’s looking to add more and more signature athletes to its roster.
What does that mean? More competition for other brands = better prices and better offerings across ALL brands.
I’d love to hear your thoughts on this though. Do you even buy Jordan hoop shoes or do you stick with lifestyle stuff like the AJ 1 when it comes to the Jumpman? Perhaps you have any additional questions I haven’t answered in the guide?
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 changes things up in several ways from the well-reviewed Nike Pegasus 38. Some of the changes are improvements while others are head-scratching. Whether you’ll like the Pegasus 39 will depend on how big you are and how you run.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39
Release Date: June 2022
Price: $130
Weight: M 9.5oz, W 8.0oz
Drop: 10mm
Sizing: True to size, runs slightly narrow, a wide version is available if needed
Rundown: The Nike Pegasus 39 is a lightweight, comfortable running shoe with a curious cushion downgrade from the Pegasus 38 that keeps it from achieving a higher rating.
Pros
Light Build
Great Comfort & Lockdown
Durable Outsole
Cons
Cushion Downgrade
Price Increase
Pros
Light Build
While any upper is an improvement over the debacle that was the Air Jordan upper, the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 takes the upper improvements of the Pegasus 38 to a new level. The Pegasus 38 was comfortable, but the Pegasus 39 is comfortable, super lightweight, and more breathable. Nike took three layers down to two and the difference is very noticeable during hot, humid summer miles. It’s the sort of barely-there but supportive upper that runners crave. Plus, it feels great on foot. More about that in our next item.
Great Comfort & Lockdown
The lighter upper of the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 puts less material on top of your foot but keeps the fully gusseted, nicely padded tongue. The Achilles padding increases significantly in a way that feels great and helps keep the heel down inside the shoe and improves overall lockdown. And while I don’t love Flywire strand lacing, it does what it’s supposed to do and keeps the midfoot secure. The upper is probably my favorite part of this shoe.
One note for my wide-footed friends. The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is still on the narrower side of shoes but is available in a wide version. I’d recommend all wide footers go with the wide version if they’re looking to try the Pegasus 39.
Durable Outsole
The outsole of the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 is very similar to the Pegasus 38 with some slight tweaks in the pattern. The result is the same. A consistently grippy thick and durable rubber outsole that will last longer than the shoe’s cushioning.
Cons
Cushion Downgrade
And now we get to the worst part of the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39. Last year’s version featured a React foam midsole and a huge, articulated Zoom Air bag in the forefoot. This year’s version loses a bit of the React foam, trades in the large volume Zoom Air bag in the forefoot for a typical oval Zoom bag, and adds a standard rectangular bag at the heel.
On the face of it, the changes don’t seem that extreme, but on foot, it feels much different. The impact protection is significantly lessened whether you land forefoot, midfoot, or heel. Landing on the ground is not near as plush, bouncy, or as smooth as the previous version. This cushioning setup doesn’t compete well with most neutral cushioned trainers from Nike’s competitors. It’s most similar in feel to the Brooks Launch 9, a shoe on the lower end of Brooks’ cushioning spectrum.
The cushioning on the Pegasus 39 is ok if you’re a smaller runner or someone who lands lightly. But the main audience here at WearTesters is larger athletes who’ve transitioned from other sports. Most of our audience tend to prefer plush, bouncy cushioning. Unfortunately, the Pegasus 39 doesn’t deliver it.
Price Increase
It’s tough to blame Nike for the inflationary environment, but the Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 jumps $10 despite less investment going into the most expensive part of the shoe, the midsole cushioning setup. I can’t recommend paying a premium when you ultimately get less protection underfoot. Unless you’re a Pegasus superfan and try every model, you’ve got better options at the $130 price point.
Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 Summary
The Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 39 nails everything except the cushioning and price. If you’re a lighter, smaller runner, you’ll likely have a great experience with the Pegasus 39. If you’re bigger, taller, or a heavy lander, you’ll want to look elsewhere for your daily running shoe.
The Reebok Floatride Energy X is a speed-focused running shoe with a forefoot carbon plate that increases the pop of the Floatride Energy foam. Reebok running shoes, like the Reebok Floatride Energy 4, have long been high-performing, under the radar, and budget-friendly. Can Air Jordan upscale its performance for race day or speed work while still maintaining a price point that’s significantly lower than the competition?
Reebok Floatride Energy X
Release Date: April 2022
Price: $170
Weight: 9.1oz
Drop: 6mm (24mm forefoot, 30mm heel)
Sizing: True to Size
Rundown: Plenty of race day pop for those that don’t want to spend $200+ on super shoes from other brands.
Pros
Forefoot Pop
Floatride Midsole
Stability
Cons
Lacing
Upper material
Pros
Forefoot Pop
Floatride Energy foam is typically pretty bouncy but I’ve never tried it when paired with a carbon fiber plate. The results are fantastic. The toe off of the Reebok Floatride Energy X provides that trampoline type feeling. I got a nice soft landing in the heel and midfoot following by a quick pop off the ground. It’s like your toes suddenly grew Schwarzenegger-esque muscles. It’s a really fun feeling especially when running fast.
Floatride Midsole
It’s underappreciated because it comes from Reebok, but Floatride Energy foam is great for running. Reebok’s new ownership should leverage Floatride to really amp up its running shoe business. More runners using Floatride would be a good thing.
The impact protection of the Floatride midsole on the Reebok Floatride Energy X is top notch. When I found out this is the most Floatride Energy foam Reebok’s used on a shoe, I thought it would likely be a nice ride. And it was a nice ride, but by modern running shoe standards, 30mm of foam (in the heel) is still medium cushioning. Those 30mm feel great, protective, and as mentioned above, very bouncy.
Stability
The heel of the Reebok Floatride Energy X’s midsole flares out in all directions as does the entire lateral side of the shoe. The result? A shoe that corners extremely well and, when combined with the upper’s rigid Flexweave, kept me on the footbed even when I caught the corner of a sidewalk or misstepped in some other clumsy way. This is about as stable as a speed-focused or race day shoe can get.
Cons
Lacing
The lacing of the Reebok Floatride Energy X has two issues. One, the lace opening is an odd v-shaped opening which doesn’t allow for much room to modify the forefoot fit and thus makes it difficult to get the perfect fit. With some fiddling I eventually figured out what worked, but it was a process.
The second issue with the lacing is the length of the laces. It’s most likely related to the weird opening shape, but the laces are way too long and will flop around when you’re running. I recommend using the extra lace hole or tucking the lace loops beneath the midfoot laces as a sort of do-it-yourself lace garage.
Upper Material
The Reebok Floatride Energy X uses the same Flexweave woven textile upper as the Jordan 2022. Flexweave makes a lot of sense on a cross training shoe but it’s a little out of place on a running shoe. It’s a little too bulky, heavy, and rigid. It does mold to your foot over time, but on a shoe meant for speed, I’d expect a more willowy, barely there, weight saving upper. This compromise is likely made to keep the price of a very bouncy shoe $30-$50 less than its competitive set.
Reebok Floatride Energy X Summary
The Reebok Floatride Energy X features a great midsole that pops and stability that you don’t usually find on speed and race day oriented shoes. And it’s $170. That’s a good enough price that I can overlook the too rigid upper and weird lacing. Similar shoes are $200+ so you can see why it’s a high value proposition for such a peppy shoe. And while Reebok may not be a name you think of in the speed-focused category of running shoes, their first effort shows they have what it takes to compete.
The KD basketball sneaker line is very strange. Sometimes we get amazing performers from all aspects, sometimes we receive a sub-par attempt to revolutionize tech that’s supposed to blow everything else out of the water. Today, I’m bringing you my KD 12 review – the supposed 2019’s performance sensation.
I was extremely excited to play in these since I heard a ton of good things about them. I’ll be taking a look at the shoe and how it holds up in the performance, comfort, and overall value for the money aspects.
I’ll also try to answer the question of whether you should upgrade if you currently have a previous KD model.
SPEC SHEET
Model: Nike KD 12
Build: Mid Top
Weight: 14.5 oz / 411 g.
Retail Price: $150
Cushion: Full-length Zoom Air, Hex Zoom Air heel unit, Phylon midsole
I. COMFORT & FIT
Right away, I do want to mention that pretty much all KD’s shoes fit pretty narrow as they got a slick and narrow construction of the tooling.
So the space where your foot sits is extremely compact. Some people like this, some don’t. I’ve had experience with KD’s shoes, so I happened to know this before I got ’em.
I’m a wide footer, so I went up half a size and they fit me near-perfectly. Regular/narrow footers will want to go true to size.
Expect a pretty snug and condensed fit if you have a regular-sized foot. That’s not necessarily a bad thing but it comes down to personal preference.
Thanks to that type of construction though, the overall fit is very well-contained, secure, and stable.
Foot mobility is out of this world and it seems that Nike really used every single inch to make the shoe as mobile, secure, and precise as possible. Amazing work here.
The KD 12 is also comfortable. Nothing to really boast about as I’ve experienced more comfort in a hoop shoe but definitely nothing to complain about – the package works.
II. TRACTION
Funny enough, I’ve just recently tested Air jordan and the KD 12 brings a very similar performance from the traction aspect – the translucent outsole might not promise much but it works really well.
I did not experience any major slipping or gripping issues in these. Wiped the outsole here and there, and I’m good to go.
I’d say these are probably a bit more prone to collecting dust than the Dame 5, especially outdoors. But again, that didn’t affect my game at all, as I didn’t find myself slipping or having bad traction because of it.
I’ve played in these outdoors for quite a bit and can say they’re holding up pretty decently. Realistically though, this is a $150 shoe and it does not look like it has the most durable outsole in the world, so you might want to consider something else as your effective outdoor beater.
Overall though, very solid, no complaints at all.
III. CUSHION
Full-length Zoom Air is back and it’s sitting directly under your foot now. On top of that, we got an extra Hex Zoom Air unit in the heel for added impact absorption, and a Phylon midsole for a stable, responsive ride.
The setup works extremely well, and I think it’d work for just about any player/position.
Unless you want an extremely prominent and straight-up bouncy ride. The KD 12 doesn’t do that.
While the setup might not be extremely springy and as much fun to play in as, for example, the KD 9 – this model brings all the critical components that a quality cushioning setup should bring.
I felt explosive, all my jumps, cuts, and landings definitely did not feel like a problem but I was also really quick and did not feel like full-length Zoom slowed me down or sunk me in the midsole for no reason.
The setup works really well and it’s well thought out – every style is accompanied as much as possible.
If you’re looking for an extremely fun and pillowy ride – this isn’t totally it (even though you can still really feel it and it’s awesome).
However, if you’re looking for a very balanced option or you’re not sure what to go with – this one’s the one.
IV. SUPPORT
I generally haven’t had any major complaints in the support department on any KD shoe. This one looks to be more of the same.
What ain’t broke – don’t fix it.
We got our traditional implementations – there’s a heel cup for heel containment, the midsole is very nicely contained in a TPU cage for a stable ride and Quad Axial Flywire does a good job locking down the foot, no matter the movement.
I don’t really know how much the fancy named “Quad Axial Flywire” helps with the shoe’s marketing, but I don’t honestly care.
All I know is that these are Flywire cables done right and I really did feel that they’re working while I’m playing.
During more aggressive moves such as quick cuts or when extremely bent-over, while driving to the hoop, there wasn’t a single second where I’d feel I’m not secure.
And that’s more than enough for me.
V. BUILD & MATERIALS
We got a conventional upper here – it’s mainly textile with synthetic mesh, plus Fuse for extra durability and stability.
That’s definitely not a pretty or by no means premium setup for a $150 price tag which felt a bit fishy at first but after playing in them for a while – it’s not too bad.
This is surely not in my top 10 best uppers or anything, but it worked well – support wasn’t compromised and it looks like the shoe will hold up well for a while.
I am not noticing any major tears or chipping, despite playing outdoors a lot (minus the outsole).
So if you can live with the materials not being fancy and don’t mind paying $150 for a basic mesh & Fuse upper – the KD 12 will get the job done for you from performance and comfort aspects.
VI. OVERALL
I think this is my second favorite KD shoe ever, right behind the KD 9.
I think the 12th model really thought about all the scenarios players could come across, and it deals with those very well.
I’ve found myself liking the fit after going up half a size, traction is great, full-length Zoom Air is brilliant, while the support and lockdown areas are straight-up savage locking down my foot like that.
Bravo! If you can afford it – the KD 12 is a very nice addition to a balanced basketball performance sneaker rotation.
The adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 is the next evolution of adidas’s high-end long-distance racing shoe line. I’ve liked the Adios Pro line since the original but most people jumped on the bandwagon starting with the second iteration. The Adidas yeezy is so good it currently sits on our list of Best Marathon Running Shoes. Is the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 good enough to get a place on our best list?
adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3
Release Date: June 23, 2022
Price: $250
Weight: 7.6oz
Drop: 6.5mm (33mm forefoot, 39.5mm heel)
Sizing: Typical adidas sizing, half size down from your shoe size in other brands.
Rundown: A smooth-riding, bouncy, and stable long-distance racing shoe that’s one of the best shoes on the market.
Pros
Stability
Rocker and Bounce
Breathability
Outsole
Cons
Achilles Stitching
Upper materials
Pros
Stability
The adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 widens the base in a significant way from the Adios Pro 2 and its ridiculously high stack brother, the adidas Adizero Prime X. The result? The most stable marathon-focused racing shoe on the market.
The extra stability is incredibly helpful on sharp turns (like the dreaded 180-degree turns that some race courses have), in wet conditions, or when you’re feeling tired and your feet are pronating more than usual. During a track workout, I felt myself increasing speed around the corners because I felt so secure. That’s not the norm with high-stack super shoes. Stability tends to be a negative on almost all of them.
So, if you’re hoping for a more stable race day option, it’s here.
Rocker and Bounce
In addition to getting wider, the midsole of the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 gets a sharper toe angle and updated Energy Rods 2.0 (used instead of a one-piece carbon fiber plate).
The sharper toe angle makes a big difference in the rocker motion, I felt like my feet left the ground a little faster than in the Adios Pro 2. The smoother, quicker rocker made the shoe feel faster and bouncier. Mentally and physically, it was a nice boost.
The updated Lebron 9 play into both the stability and bounce. Previously, the rods were five completely separate, well…rods, floating within the foam. Now, though the rods can still move individually, they’re attached together in several places. This likely helped the fluidity of the rocker and the bounce as the rods worked together more than they did in the Adios Pro and Adios Pro 2.
So basically, I love all the changes to the midsole. The adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 feels faster and more supportive without sacrificing anything.
Breathability
While I don’t love the textile mesh used for the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3’s upper, more on that later, it’s a lot more breathable than the recycled polyester upper on the Adios Pro 2. It’s not as see-through, but more air passes through the upper to hit the foot. Running on some particularly hot days leading up to writing this review, I appreciated the extra airflow. And you’ll appreciate it too when you’re grinding through the final miles of your next marathon.
Outsole
The Continental rubber used on the outsole of the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 doesn’t feature any lugs and even has a bunch of cutouts to save weight. But the rubber used is like a race car tire. It just holds the ground extremely well. It combines with a more stable midsole to offer security in any condition. You won’t slip and slide no matter the conditions. That’s invaluable peace of mind when you’re focused on running a difficult race. It’s just one less thing on your mind.
Cons
Achilles Stitching
While it didn’t cause me any hotspots, the design of the Achilles pads and heel cup on the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 isn’t well thought out. I felt it rubbing slightly my first couple of runs but the heel tab of my Bombas Performance Running Socks saved the day.
The heel cup features an extra piece of fabric on the inside that integrates with the Achilles pillows and can flip upwards like an elfish spoiler. Due to both it, and the fuse supporting the heel, there’s hard stitching around the pillows and across the rear of the shoe right just a centimeter or two below the top edge of the heel collar.
Depending on your socks, it could dig in and cause a blister, especially as you break in the shoe. You might get lucky like me and avoid a blister, but there shouldn’t be exposed stitching of that nature around the Achilles on the heel collar. It’s asking for trouble.
Upper Materials
The textile mesh used on the upper of the adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 is coarse. It’s more durable and breathable than the materials used on previous versions, but it’s not more comfortable. It really hurts step-in comfort as it’s the sort of material that takes a couple of runs to break in fully. I foresee a lot of specialty run store employees having to convince runners it won’t annoy them.
In addition, the synthetic suede tongue just feels cheap. It’s light and was likely done to provide crucial weight savings. It’s not bad, just meh. On the plus side, even though it’s not gusseted, adidas strings the laces through the tongue three times so it won’t slide around.
While the upper materials don’t inhibit performance, I wish they hadn’t taken a step back from previous versions. I mean, they’re ok, but I expected more. Luckily, the midsole changes are so good that I can overlook the upper’s issues.
adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 Summary
The adidas Adizero Adios Pro 3 is one of the best marathon racing shoes on the market. It sits above the fray with the likes of the Nike Alphafly and a shoe I’m reviewing right now, the Asics Metaspeed Sky+.
The new midsole’s combination of bounciness and stability help it fill an unoccupied niche. And while it did take a small step back in terms of the upper, it’s an incredibly high-performing shoe that sits in the top tier of long-distance running shoes. Those runners needing stability, in addition to speed, should try the Adios Pro 3 as soon as they can.
The Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 aims to build upon the success of the original HOVR Drive. But despite doing some things very well, the Under Armour HOVR Drive 2 falls short in other categories. Are the successes enough to cover up the shortcomings? Let’s find out.
