Author: the sole line

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Air Jordan 33 PF Peformance Review

Designed by Tate Kuerbis, Air Jordan 33  is the thirty-third basketball shoe in the Air Jordan legacy. There is no deny that Air Jordan series bring about a great deal of attention every year. Whether you have the desire to buy or not, I know that you all are keen on seeing what surprise Air Jordan would bring  to us. You may ask ” How is its performance?”  But after all, “Facts speak louder than words.” The answer you want is below. So go on reading.

 

The appearance is of great importance, isn’t it? From my own perspective, a shoe’s appearance is one of the important indicators when buying shoes. Suppose that there is a super nice shoe on the shelf, wouldn’t you be attracted? Chances are that you will buy it even without giving it a second thought.

 

For me, when I saw Jordan 33 at the first sight, it gave me an impression that it was not designed simple, but perplexing. A highlight of Jordan is that it features the new FastFit lacing system, making you think of the deconstruction of off-white. The FastFit lockdown tech does cross the whole upper.  As is seen as well, there is the iconic Air Jordan logo in the shoe tongue.

 

On top of the above, Nike also equips a vintage embroidery “NIKE AIR” logo at the heel.

 

The cushion, as you expected before, is always excellent. You can never suspect Air Jordan models’ cushion performance. If you’ve wore Air Jordan 32 before then you’ll receive much of the same in terms of mobility, court feel, and impact protection. As is said to be a legendary shoe, of course, Jordan 33 is superior to other sneakers in many aspects and so is the cushion. It equips with a a full-length Zoom Air bag in the shoe. I should say the foot feel it offers  is fantastic. You can also see clearly in the forefoot side that there is a small red Zoom Air cushion, looking appealing and making you want to have a try. Being able to cop one pair of Jordan 33, I’d tell you my experience that the moment you put them on, you will feel the strong feedback in the forefoot. If enough pressure is placed, say jumping high and then stepping on it with your whole strength, the bouncy feeling is more apparent.

 

It is the half-foot inner boot plus the FastFit  lockdown tech that greatly improves the shoe’s wrapping and support. Were it not the two settings, you would experience much slipping. After wearing the shoe, it provides you lockdown and your foot can just stay in the footbed securely. For the upper, it is made of leather mesh stitching. As for the forefoot, it is reinforced with leather to provide powerful support when direction change and emergency stop are needed.

 

Here I’d mention that there might be some extra space in the forefoot while your midfoot is tightly locked. And because of the softness of the upper, the support is a bit not enough. But there is no need worrying slipping for your foot is tightly locked resulting in no deviation of your foot.

 

For the traction, the shoe is installed with crystal outsole along with some small grains. Such kind of combination can surely offer an excellent grip. It just bits the floor very well. However, as is known to all, the durablity of crystal outsole can’t be so satisfying. So if you are dying for a long-lasting outsole, then Air Jordan 33 is not for you. But on the other hand, one advantage of the outsole is that it will not attract dust to it; hence, you can expect a wonderful experience no matter indoors or outdoors. Personally, if compared with Jordan 31 and 32, Jordan 33 turns out to be the best of the three.

 

Last but not least, the fit. It fits me true to size——something I enjoy very much. Definitely, this goes the same for most people. But for those with high instep, it would be a little hard to put on. However, I don’t think this would be a deal breaker.

 

Overall:

Since its officially release on September 20th, 2018, Nike Air Jordan 33 has been gaining a lot of popularity. In my opinion, Air Jordan 33 is head of its time. The traction and cushion are both very solid; the fit is fantastic; the wrapping works surprisingly well. With all these, you are running into a combat “feast”.

 

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Nike Air VaporMax 2019 Performance Review

I remember clearly that Nike  VaporMax was one the most popular topic for sneaker fans in 2017. As the first pair of pure air cushion suspension outsole sneaker, surely VaporMax has fully caught  people’s attention. However, this time VaporMax 2019 releases quietly for the upcoming of the New Year.  According to some official news that VaporMax 2019 ‘Black/Metallic Gold’ is set to drop on January 1 for $190. Next take a look at the shoe at length.

 

 

Compared with VaporMax,  Nike has also installed the same suspension outsole in VaporMax 2019. Aesthetically pleasing to the eye as it is, the amazing feeling does no longer exist.

 

Maybe it is because the outsole is super excellent so that Nike does not make any change in this aspect. But on other hand, the Air VaporMax 2019 is similar to the VaporMax Run Utility in that it has a TPE translucent stretch-woven upper and it also has a TPU offering support at the heel.

 

For the shoe box, there is no much difference between the two versions. Still, in the middle of the box lays the iconic logo whose color changes as light shines from different angles.

 

Today’s protagonist is this ‘Black/Metallic Gold’. For the colorway, from my own perspective, not only is it aesthetically pleasing, but makes it easy for you to match your daily dressing.

 

As for the other colorway, it looks nice as well. But the above are my personal view and after all, everyone has his/her own opinion.

 

Below are some picturesque images photoed from different angles for you to appreciate.

 

With respect to the shoe’s performance, I would like to talk about the traction first of all. Well, you know that VaporMax 2019 totally inherits the outsole of the last version; therefore, all the shortcomings that VaporMax owns can be found in VaporMax 2019 as well. Lacking the rubber’s flexibility and friction with courts,  a great part of the outsole are exposed hard plastic nails which are directly in contact with ground, thus making it hard to grip on smooth grounds. On top of that, there are big grooves in the outsole, attracting small gravels or any other things. However, good news is that dust or not dust, the grip wouldn’t be affected and if you are quite into relatively clean courts, well, things are looking up.

 

There is some information of the shoe printed in the gold shoe tongue.

 

The upper, a TPE translucent stretch-woven one, along with the thick rope laces secured by plastic pieces that is not Flywire, greatly improves the shoe’s wrapping and support. The upper that is made of harder materials is more durable than the previous version. Flexibility and stability are ensured at the same time.

 

It wraps your feet well, so you can just try your best on court and need not worrying about slipping for the shoe offers you lockdown and makes your feet lay steadily in the footbed.

 

Rather than being made of metal though, the gold lace head still looks very nice, isn’t it?

 

The support is better, but after some playing maybe your initial play, you’ll find the upper easily wrinkled which means folds are inevitable.

 

Comfortable as it is, a pair of socks is necessary.

For its cushion, there’s an Air VaporMax unit for cushion underfoot so expect a comfortable ride, regardless of where these are taken. Besides the cushion setting, I’ve tested VaporMax and the VaporMax 2019. On a personal level, if it were not my illusion, then the cushion performance can be influenced by temperature: in summer I felt the cushion performed better while in winter, the bouncy feeling and feedback both declined.

 

During my running on VaporMax 2019 recently, it gave me a feeling that the cushion is progressive, so it is likely that you’ll feel it unfriendly at first. The moment my shoes touched the ground I felt the springy feeling I was always running after. If compared with traditional foam cushion sneakers, I should say VaporMax 2019 is not superior at all. For those who never try VaporMax before, some time to adapt to it is needed.

Well, yes, there are slight changes in VaporMax 2019.  But it is these slight changes that distinguish VaporMax 2019 from the others.

 

Lastly, the fit. Objectively speaking, it is not bad. If you’ve tried VaporMax before, you can know the fit well. In other words, had VaporMax fit you snug well, then VaporMax 2019 fits you nice either.

 

Overall:

The stability, support and wrapping are all superior to the last version, so wanna to get a pair? With its availability on Nike.com and all Nike retailers,  you are accessible to this build and you’ll get a splendid experience.

 

 

 

 

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NIKE AIR FORCE 1 LOW Performance Review

Founded by Virgil Abloh, OFF-WHITE can be said to be one of the most popular brands in recent years. THE 10 series, which is the accomplishment of Nike and OFF-WHITE’s cooperation, has launched many new shoes. In short, with respect to the shoe, here is information shown below, so just stayed tuned.

 

Firstly, let us just get a detailed look at the shoe box. The box is something of kraft paper. Simple as it looks, there is still something in it. As you can see, in the middle of the box writes “NIKE SWOOSH” .

 

At the side, there is a shoe tag attached in it.

The words printed at the other side show some information of this shoe, from which we can know the cooperation of the Off-White and Nike.

 

For today’s protagonist, I’ll first show you its appearance. The brand has released the shoe in numerous variations and collabs every single year and of course,  it can’t be an exception this year. Although released shortly after the original Hi-Top model was introduced, Nike Air Force 1 Low is outstanding regardless of others’ developing pace and has still won a great deal of popularity.

 

Nike Air Force 1 Low comes in various kinds of colorways. However, a disadvantage is that some online buyers are disappointed that some of the colorways are not what they really are. But for this one, it simply features black with the white Nike logo. Below the logo, there lays an” Air”. As a sneaker, not only is Nike Air Force 1 Low practical, but also suitable for daily outing.

 

The outsole is overall black——nothing special. The pattern of the outsole looks simple. There are some circular patterns in addition to sawtooth grains. It is the grains in the outsole that do a great help. To tell you the truth, in my initial play which took place on a quite smooth ground, had it not been the great grip, I would have run into much slipping. It hugs the floor super well!

 

Dust or not dust, it seems that there is no much influence; it plays as good as usual unless the court condition is really really bad. Besides, wiping once or so a month is necessary so as to keep it in good condition. At least, if not for grip, but keeping it clean makes you comfortable.

 

When it comes to the upper, it is made of nylon and mesh while the stitching part, it is glued. Equipped with so these new technologies, the upper definitely would not lack beathability. This large upper would wrap your foot stably, making your foot stay secure in the footbed.

 

The laces are made of hard nylon, so it is a bit difficult to tie them; but on the other hand, it is not so easy to loosen. As is seen, the laces are printed with “SHOELACES”. However, what amazes us all most is the fabulously designed tongue and the exposed foam material of the collar . Thanks to the laces with the large upper, you are getting your excellent wrapping.

 

If you buy this shoe, white laces are included, making it easier for you to match the shoe with your daily dressing. Personally,  white laces are more pleasing to the eye.

 

At the heel, it prints the “SWOOSH” logo and some basic data of the shoe.

 

What needs to be mentioned is that the shoe is a little heavy. But from my own perspective, definitely it wouldn’t be a deal breaker. For some people, maybe the weight is what they are seeking for. But the shoe impresses me most is its durablity. Noted by some fans that after more than three decades, the shoe still effortlessly works in the basketball court. Of course, it needs to be verified. But certainly as one of the best-selling athletic shoes, Air Force 1 Low’s durablity can not be bad. Like me, many buyers are also impressed by the shoe’s durability.

 

Made of rubber, the outsole is durable as well. And the spiral pattern in the forefoot offer the wearer enough flexibility.

 

At the rear of the tongue prints the iconic logo of THE 10.

Below are some data of the tongue of a shoe with size 42.

 

Every time I’d mention the fit. Yes, in my view, the shoe is good, but don’t take it for granted that it would meet every need you require. Air Force 1 Low fits me quite well——snug well. For most people, you can find the same effect like me; it also fits you well. It can wrap you and would not allow any slipping; it offers you enough flexibility when you need it and does not when you don’t need it. The fit is just superb!

 

Overall:

As you all know, NIKE AIR FORCE 1 LOW is redesigned based on the NIKE AIR FORCE 1 LOW. The former offers some slight changes, but it continues to draw people’s attention and has won the hearts of most buyers. For such kind of a outstanding sneaker with splendid performance, its price is more than rational. Above all, it is now available in many retailers either online or offline. In summary, it is a shoe that deserves your trying.

 

 

 

 

 

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Jordan Why Not Zer0.2 performance Review

The new signature shoe with Jordan called Why Not Zer0.2 has just officially released on January 10th, 2019 in full family sizes. According to the official news, many a new technologies are installed in this Why Not Zer0.2. Personally, maybe it is one of the best signature models out on the market at the moment. Compared with the 1st version, Why NOt Zero.2 can be said to be changed greatly before marketing. So greatly changed was the shoe that you can not tell any relationship between the 2 versions. There is no deny that this impressive new design has brought much influence for some fans. Then today we’ll take a look at the shoe.

 

As you can see, this wild colorway is very special. The  distinguished tag in the heel shows detailed information of the shoe.

 

Looking at the outsole, there are many circular patterns which are specially designed and used to reduce friction. For the grip, it just performs as I expected before——average. Outdoors or indoors, there is no much difference of its performance. If dust is present, it performs as usual as well unless there is much dust that is accumulated for years.

 

However, although its grip is OK, the slipping does exist; but there is no need worrying because it would not result in serious problems. On top of that, if you are longing for a long-lasting outsole, then you will definitely get disappointed for the rubber is on the soft side. But don’t be upset because things are not so bad. Provided that you maintain the shoe in good condition say wiping or washing every now and then, it lasts working as well.

 

For the upper, it takes on a deconstructed approach with exposed stitching and a lofted mid-foot strap. Besides, mesh and knit are installed in the upper; so this time breathability is on longer absent. And with the lacing system, a bit like HUARACHE’s design though, the shoe’s wrapping does attract me very much. From an objective perspective, the wrapping works quite well; from my own perspective, at least, it is of great help to me. Owing to the wrapping, the shoe requires barely a little break-in time and offers you lockdown; therefore, you can just let your feet lay in the shoes and worry nothing.

 

With respect to the support, some setting needs to be mentioned. In order to keep the support in good condition,  a double-layer is equipped in the heel; and an exterior TPU is added at the heel for stability. As a matter of fact, it is the TPU that plays a vital role: the midfoot and rear heel support actually come from the TPU plates. It keeps the part strong rather than heavy.

 

As members of a series, comparison between the models is seldom absent. The Why Not Zer0.2 utilizes a Zoom-laden two-piece sole with an exposed mid-foot plate. Forefoot Unlocked Zoom Air is also placed. But compared with the 1st, there is no doubt that the Why Not Zero.2’s full foot cushion settings are declined. I clearly remember my initial play on Why Not Zero.2 that it gave me quite an wonderful and unforgettable experience. I enjoy the cushion whether there is speed-up or start-up. If you are fond of the super springy feeling, then it is for you; if you are into the shoe’s feedback, you might as well take it into consideration. Being capable of owing this model, you are getting a fantastic experience.

 

For some people, there might be some extra room in the forefoot. So for those wanting a fabulous feeling, they might go a smaller size. But only when they try the shoes on can they know whether the shoe is the best choice. As for me, it fits me snug well. And it goes the same for wide footers. Besides, overlay straps/panels exist so as to wrap around the foot at the forefoot, midfoot and rear. The nice fit is just the reason why I bought this shoe.

 

What needs to be mentioned is that the shoe can’t be lightweight, which is up to the thickness of the midsole and the heel.

 

Overall:

The above are based either on my experience or some objective facts. Why Not Zero.2 is just suitable for all kinds of players. With the rational price, the excellent cushion and the fantastic fit, the shoe is within your reach. But above all, whether a shoe fits you only you know. So if you have been considering it as your next on-court companion, you can get a try and it is worth your trying.

 

 

 

 

 

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Under Armour Charged Intake 3 Performance Review

Today’s protagonist——the Under Armour Charged Intake 3 is particularly designed for all kinds runners. They like Charged Intake 3 for speed work and fasters, shorter races and so on. It is just donating its best to its owner. Ordinary as it seems to be, it has everything you need as a runner shoe. Next we’ll take a look at this superb shoe.

 

Under Armour Charged Intake 3 has many kinds of colors and styles. There is never a lack of outstanding look in Under Armour shoes; thus, as a member of Under Armour series, Charged Intake 3 would not be an exception. For this colorway, it is a bit distinguished and very pleasing to the eye, making it look greater to fit with sports clothes or any other casual clothes.

 

Under Armour installs the typical cushioning——the Charged Cushioning in the midsole, which is unique to Under Armour brand. This kind of material is super light, responsive,  adaptable and above all, of great help for the runners. Further more, the full foot cushion feels comfortable and brings you fantastic feedback whether in a rubber runway, a treadmill or a general highway. Besides, I’ve already done some tests——a 5 km fast run, a 1 h break run and a 1 h jogging.  During my running, I can obviously feel the wrapping and the springy cushion. The moment you step on it, you’ll get your wonderful court feel.

 

With respect to the traction, as you can see in the images, there are two types of rubber in the outsole. Well, it is likely that you’ve seen some other beautiful traction patterns before, but maybe you never see the one of Charged Intake 3. For this one, personally, it is very special. Designed like the feet bones, the pattern is to decrease the pressure and on the other hand, increase the cushion.

 

Owing to this special traction pattern, dust would not be easily attracted to the outsole; hence, whether dust or not, there is no big influence. So a good thing is that it will save you a lot of time rather than wiping from time to time. While in combat, the traction performs well. It offers you all-directional grip. Start-up and breakthrough needed, the grip appears and does you a great help on time. Considerate! Isn’t it?

 

The shoe tongue is super soft, giving the wearer a feeling of wearing nothing——just like stepping on the ground with your feet. Also, the tongue is placed to offer security and comfort and reduce friction.

 

As is seen that a detachable insole in the heel greatly enhances the comfort for foot. What’s more, even the tongue has used a breathable material.

For the wrapping and support, it is the upper that does an significant help. Just take a detailed look at the upper. Being equipped with a three-layer mesh and Speedform integrated material, not only does the upper offer superb support, but also breathability. In fact, the entire upper is made from a breathable mesh that molds to the shape of the foot. On top of that, combining with the lacing system, the support has to certain extend improved. As for the inner part, it is filled with soft material and super soft foam in the heel.

 

The whole upper is covered with visible ventilation holes which can be clearly seen in the pictures, keeping the foot cool and dry even in hot summer days.  Since breathability is no longer absent, it would be very popular among runners.

 

However, the shoe’s wrapping is not as excellent as the support. The forefoot and the shoe tongue are quite suitable for Asians. Laces tied tightly, there are still extra room which results in insufficient lockdown.

 

The TPU in the heel protects your feet and offers support as well. When it comes to the fit, I dare not say that it fits snug to everyone. For me, because I am not a wide footer in fact, it fits me true to size. As for those with wide feet and wanting to grab a pair of runner shoes, here I highly suggest you that you go to stores to try the shoe on. Provided that you find your true size, you’ll definitely be into it.

 

Overall:

From an objectively perspective, Under Armour Charged Intake 3 falls right at the average price for a running shoe on the present market. With the practical setting and rational price, the shoe is within your reach. Last but not least, having a good-looking, this shoe can surely match your daily dressing. So if you’ve fell in love with it, why not just grab a pair now?

 

 

 

 

 

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Under Armour Curry 6 Performance Review

How time flies! Under Curry has already come to the 6th version. The Irving 5 has just released for less than 2 months then followed Under Curry 6’s release. With 2019 around the corner, Under Curry 6 contains full best wishes for the new year. Next I’ll show you a detailed look at the shoe hoping that it might bring some help to those wanting to grab a new pair of shoes.

 

Specially designed, this Under Curry 6’s colorway is the first released. But to tell you the truth, I was quite unaccustomed to it at the first sight even after giving it some playing time. After all, the fluorescent does not match the black upper so well. However, the above are my personal view.

 

This time it installs the woven materials which has inherited the setting of the 5th version, but it is just much thinner. The toe part of upper has been equipped with heat welded fuse however it is a small one. For the shoe tongue, it is made of bouncy woven materials which is going to be very popular among high insteps. Instead of using the Anafoam, Under Curry 6’s anti-twist ability and protection have to some degree decreased. But on the other hand, the breathability is no longer absent; it is enough for you to play a long time.

 

Super lightweight as this Under Curry 6 is, its wrapping is super excellent. It warps your foot well and makes your foot secure in the shoe. Personally, it works quite well except for some disadvantages. For instance, there might be some extra space for people with thinner feet, thus resulting in slipping in the shoes. For those people, it would be better to choose a smaller size or they may want to try them on.

 

While in combat, what matters most for most people is the cushion setting in a shoe. Likewise, the cushion tech of Under Curry——the HOVR is the most appealing part for me. But to tell you the truth, after having wore the shoes out on the street, I was quite confused that there was nearly not any change. However, it was not until I played on court that I found the fact that as long as enough pressure is placed, the cushion will give you feedback. And of course, it is softer than the 5th version.

 

As Curry’s signature shoe, Under Curry 6 is firstly designed for Curry whose way of play is special. Take Curry 5 for instance, its hard midsole is particularly designed for Curry because of his way of playing. So if installed with regular HOVR cushion, surely Curry 6 can not meet Curry’s needs.

 

For the traction, as you can see, the pattern looks so nice. With many grains and big grooves, Curry 6 offers good multi-directional grip in all kinds of grounds. As I’ve mentioned before, provided that you find your true size, there wouldn’t be any slipping. But the traction is not perfect of course for dust will be easily invited to its surface; therefore, wiping is needed every now and then in order to keep the traction in good condition. And after wiping, you are getting your regular excellent performance.

Whether there is dust or not, it has enough grip staying tuned for you. Indoors, the grip is enough; outdoors, it is also ample. So from an objective perspective, the traction is not bad; at least, it doesn’t perform very poorly.

 

The last part is the fit. For me, it fits me snug well. I am not wide footers in fact, so there are not any problems in this aspect. And my impression of Under Curry  gets better especially after some time getting along with it. I found that the shoes feel perfect. Anything going well, your initial play on them is going to be impressive.

 

Overall:

To sum up, Curry 6 is a characteristic signature shoe. On a personal level, Curry 6 has reached its top in the court feel and its lightweight. The super lightweight keeps it work for a long time; the hard midsole improves flexibility; although the grip and protection are not so satisfying. The overall of the shoes is excellent except for some flaws. Good news is that if your way of playing resembles to Curry, then you are very likely to be into it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Air Jordan 11 CONCORD Performance Review

Since 1993 when Michael Jordan decommissioned from NBA, never has anybody thought of his return to the NBA court. Later in the 1955-1956 season, Air Jordan 11 had become the great player’s most reliable companion.

 

 

Designed by Tinker Hatfield, Air Jordan 11 was Michael Jordan’s favorite; furthermore, among all the colorways, CONCORD is frequently seen in Michael Jordan’s feet. As you can see, Michael Jordan wears the Air Jordan 11 CONCORD in all kinds of occasions. With Air Jordan 11 CONCORD’s availability now, we’ll get a look at this shoe at length today.

 

Opening the shoe box, what comes into our sight first is the large black patent leather. Contrary to the white upper, it is the special bright black that makes the shoe distinguished from the other shoes. Followed by several re-releases over the years, this black, white and concord version of Michael Jordan’s eleventh signature shoe completes with brand-new “45” branding on the heel in place of the standard “23” mark.

 

On top of the above, at the heel part there are the Air Jordan logo which is never absent. For most people, the “45” mentioned before has also been the most appealing.

 

The traction is made of crystal materials and the blue rubber; we can also see clearly that a large square of carbon board plus the iconic flying man are installed in the outsole, which makes the whole traction very pleasing to the eye. Personally, every inch of the traction is designed delicately and creatively.

 

When it comes to the grip, frankly speaking, I have never come across any slipping on court. The traction just hugs the floor so well though it would sometimes attract dust to the surface. But whether dust or not dust, there is not much influence; hence, there is no need wiping frequently, which saves you much time. The grip, I believe, is ample; if you are into outdoor court whose environment is not so bad, the grip is ample too let alone indoor floors——sufficient!

 

When start-up and breakthrough are needed, the outsole offers you all-directional grip.

 

However, not that the pattern the prettier, the better. A shortcoming of the traction is that as time goes by, it would turn yellow as a result of being oxidized.

 

With respect to the wrapping, I am quite pleased with. But anyway, only when you try them on can you experience the tight and superb wrapping——this is true of the fit.

Besides the lacing system, the large upper and the thickness of the shoe elevate wrapping to a certain degree. To reinforce the wrapping, there would not be coexistence between the thickness an breathability. Thus, breathability in Air Jordan 11 CONCORD is absent, making it unsuitable to wear in summer.

 

Though not being able to be installed with the latest cushion tech, the cushion setup of Air Jordan 11 CONCORD is OK. For daily wearing, you’ll feel the bouncy Air Sole cushion in the midsole. Well, in fact it can not be compared with some super-strong cushioning technology on the market, for those not requiring much in this part, it is enough to use. Provided that enough pressure is placed, the cushion can still work passably.

 

For me, Air Jordan 11 CONCERN fits snug well. The upper wraps your foot tight and makes your foot stay in the footbed. It is quite easy for on-and-off; it fits true to size for most people; it wears secure and comfortable. The above are my personally view and you can take it for reference.

 

Overall：

Scheduled to release on December 8, 2018, this Air Jordan 11 CONCORD is now accessible to us all in Jordan stores. Objectively speaking, Jordan 11 CONCORD is not a perfect one. But it can be said to be an excellent sneaker and a reliable companion to some way.  It was not until I gave it enough playing time that I found it suited me so well. If you are willing to have a try, maybe you will be into it like me.

 

 

 

 

 

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Air Jordan Butler Ultra.Fly 2 Performance Review

I got this Air Jordan Butler Ultra.Fly 2 in last especially cold winter. I was just looking for a comfortable and warm shoe, then in the very year, I came upon this sneaker, which looks very warm and suitable for winter. Chances are that you’ll consider this Butler Ultra.Fly 2 as another one at the first sight because it is an alien-like model, which makes it a bit hard to tell them apart. However, this Air Jordan Butler Ultra.Fly 2 is absolutely unique. Today we will get a look at this model at length.

 

First of all, I’d talk about the shoe’s appearance. Based on my personal experience, to tell you the truth, I was not attracted by its appearance at first. In other words, I am not satisfied with this part. There are several kinds of colorways and finally I chose this topical red and black. Heavy as it seems to be, it is in fact very lightweight. Also, there is another advantage in it——that is the shoe’s excellent durability. Just as an old saying goes,” Do not judge a book by its cover.” Personally, this goes the same for Butler Ultra.Fly 2. After a year’s wearing, Butler Ultra.Fly 2 just remains good shape and excellent performance.

 

But on the other hand, it is the distinguished appearance that makes Butler Ultra.Fly 2 special. There are also symbolic logos at the sides.

 

For the wrapping, Butler Ultra.Fly 2 wraps your foot super well. However, it is hard for on-and off. It is likely that you’ll spend much your energy wearing this shoes. And there is often a “but’. Being a one-piece upper, it is likely that Butler Ultra.Fly 2 can not meet every need you require. For wide footers, here I highly suggest that you try the shoes on in case there might be discomfort.

Here I’d mention the rope at the heel. Definitely it is thought highly of for it really does a good help. It does improve the wrapping to some extend.

 

 

After finishing wearing, there is an obvious feeling that your feet are tightly wrapped. Looking back at my own experience, I was not used to it at first while after some time getting along with it, I found it catered to my playing.

 

With respect to the shoe traction, I have a lot to talk about. The pattern is designed awesome and also, the traction itself is very durable (but this may be closely related to my way of playing). As is seen in the pictures, the gap between the grains is a bit wide,thus miking it easily to draw gravels to the traction; therefore, wiping every now and then is needed so as to keep good grip. As for whether dust is present or not, there is no much influence.

It is mainly the black part that needs to come into play on court.

 

For the cushion, Air Jordan installs Butler Ultra.Fly 2 with forefoot and heel Zoom Air and Phylon in midsole. As a result of this, never is there an absent bouncy feedback in forefoot, but for the heel Zoom Air, the elasticity is average. Would it be better to equip the forefoot Zoom Air in the heel part? The answer is yes. When in combat, it offers a fabulous court feel for you.Despite the absent protection, there is still something in the shoe.

 

Overall:

Al in all, Butler Ultra.Fly 2 is a good shoe that is worthy your trying. As I mentioned before, as long as you give the shoe enough time to get along with you’ll feel that it performs well and breaks in superbly. But for those looking for sufficient protection and can not bear absent breathability, Butler Ultra.Fly 2 might not be a good choice.

 

 

 

 

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Nike Kyrie 5 Performance Review

Expected to release this January or maybe February, according to some news web, “Nike Kyrie 5 was worn by Kyrie Irving on the night of December 27th against the Houston Rockets  and possibly throughout the next month.” With the Chinese New Year around the corner, Nike has prepared for us  Kyrie Irving’s signature shoe——the Nike Kyrie 5 which not only pays homage to this ages old tradition, but remembers Chinese New Year offerings of the past. So let’s take a look at this New Year gift.

 

Nike was one of the most popular combat sneaker of 2018 . And as one member of Nike series,  I believe, this Kyrie 5 would not be an exception. The same as last year, it is Nike that brings us this new year gift whose colorway is especially designed for Chinese New Year.

For its appearance, you can compare it with the version designed for the New Year last year, and you’ll find that Kyrie 5 is relatively ordinary. However, provided that you observe it with care, you’ll surprisingly find there is some special in it.

 

As for the shoe box, it simply features red and black. Symmetrically split by red and black, the shoe box fully expresses a happy atmosphere of new year. From both the shoe box and the shoes, we can see the brand-new theme that stands for the new year reunion of a family.

 

Opening the box, we’ll see the inner part  painted wholly with red. There in the middle of the box  lays the symbolic New Year greeting pattern.

 

For its wrapping

On a personal level, the support has been solid on the shoes. Then the wrapping? Quite excellent! From the heel through the forefoot it is just so flat while  at the edges it is round, making you feel stable and comfortable. Being able to play on Kyrie 5, I’d like to tell you the truth that it is definitely a reliable assistant on combat court. Equipped with TPU, which is generally seen, Kyrie 5 is capable of reducing compression in that section of the foam midsole. And with the lacing system and the upper Flywire, the wrapping of Kyrie 5 is greatly improved. On the other hand however, this has brought some inconvenience. Because of the laces, it would be a bit difficult for on-and-off; thus I highly recommend that you buy a bigger size.

 

On top of the above, it is the design in the heel that makes Kyrie 5 distinguished from the other Kyrie models. Nike uses colorful fabric in the form of triangle in the heel, which looks very full and further improves the wrapping.

 

For the traction；

With respect to this aspect, frankly speaking, it is something I am a fan of. And chances are that you have seen herringbone or any other shapes in Kyrie models before, but this time Nike has broken new ground——it generates some remarkable pattern. The exceptionally designed traction, which is also multi-directional, personally, I am very satisfied with for its performance really gave me quite a start on my initial play and after that, I am accustomed to playing on it. If you always play indoors then Kyrie 5 is absolutely for you. Furthermore, you need not wipe it all the time in order to keep good grip. But, as is seen in the images——there are big grooves which would invite gravels to the traction; therefore, if you are into outdoor courts like me, wiping is a necessary work every time before and after a combat.

 

Not only is the traction durable, but never have I come into any slipping. After all, only when you try it in the flesh can you have a different experience.

 

For the cushion；

Nike has finally “moved in for the kill” at the spot-on moment for it equips Kyrie 5 with the brand-new forefoot cushion tech——Nike Air Zoom Turbo, which is the most appealing of Kyrie 5. This fabulous setup, placed prominently, is something of a foam. It offers players a wonderful court feel and feedback in all directions. When a player land first on the forefoot, the cushion works wonderfully. It just seems like the player is stepping on a pillow.

 

For the fit:

Fit is fantastic though it would be a bit tight; nevertheless, it can’t be a deal breaker for me. Great is my joy that Kyrie 5 fits me very well. But for more comfort, some may need to go up 1/2 size because it is hard for on-and off (which is mentioned before).

 

Overall

The new year is not far behind and if you are still seeking a shoe for your new year, why not take Kyrie 5 into consideration? It offers splendid bouncy feeling, fantastic fit and ample grip and meets almost everything you need.  The fact that Kyrie 5’s performance and outstanding appearance are online is always fascinating for me. So if this is also the case for you, Kyrie 5 would be your next target of purchase.

 

 

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Nike LeBron Ambassador 11 Performance Review

There has been several shoes of Lebron series for us to choose from.  Surely every version works not bad and of course, the Lebron Ambassador 11 is no exception. As the latest version of LeBron series, what surprise would Ambassador 11 bring to us? Today we’ll have a look at the brand-new model.

 

Appearance

It seems that Ambassador 11 resembles to some sneaker you might have seen before. You may be wondering the relationship between the two——thinking what I am thinking. However, the fact is that Ambassador 11 is unique.

Ambassador 11 simply features white upper and red woven stripes. Embellished with deep blue in the inner part and gold in the heel part, the Ambassador 11 is very pleasing to the eye. Compared with the previous versions, Nike has done very well and improved greatly in colorway.

As for its setting, Ambassador 11 comes equipped with a weather-resistant shroud that covers the midfoot and secures with Velcro. The under layer is a synthetic mesh material, which is the reason the Ambassador 11 is so light.

Cushion

For cushioning, this time Ambassador 11  has equipped  a Phylon midsole with large heel and forefoot Zoom Air units for awesome cushion and impact protection. For players who are especially into bouncy feeling,  I have to say that Ambassador 11 is designed for them. Unlike the last version, Ambassador 11 is suitable for all kinds of grounds. Even in some concrete ground, you’ll just be in for a wonderful experience.

 

Traction

For the grip, Ambassador 11 performs passably. As you can see, the forefoot of outsole is equipped with friction pattern design, thus making the grip relatively weak. When you are playing indoors, the shoe can hug the floor not bad while in outdoor court, you might be in for a disappointing play. For this Ambassador 11, wiping sometimes is necessary though never has I wiped mine. Once again, provided that you wipe your shoes every now and then, it can still satisfy you.

 

 

Wrapping

The large upper can fully cover your foot, thus providing ample support for you. But for wide footers, it may be a bit tight in all directions, so they may want to try them on in case there is discomfort. Tight as it would be, flexibility is ensured. Also, there is a large external heel counter with pull tabs at the heel and shroud for easy on-and off. On top of that, with the traditional lacing system under the shroud, support is sufficient for those ready to play in any court.

 

Fit

For this aspect, I’ve mentioned in the wrapping. Those with narrow feet who want a snug fit can get away with TTS, or possibly even 1/2 size down. As for wide footers, some may say it is wide-foot friendly as most overseas models are. But the above are my personal view for everybody has their respective case.

 

 

 

Overall

Apparently, there is no need introducing more. Ambassador 11 performs quite well overall. Not only is Ambassador 11 budget-friendly, but also a reliable combat companion. For me, the cushion of Ambassador 11 is decent very good; the wrapping is definitely the best; the fit is absolutely the most suitable. If you do not mind the absent breathability which I believe would not be a deal breaker and you are considering grabbing a pair, you might as well try this one. After all, not being able to have a try may be most likely to become a regret.