Adidas Tour360 22 Performance Review

With a plethora of the world’s best golfers in their stable of PGA Tour players, Adidas has really stepped up their golf shoe game. 

Piggy-backing off of the success of last year’s model, the Adidas Tour360 22 takes dead aim at the top spot in the spiked category.

Spoiler alert: these things hit the mark.

First Impressions

As someone who’s a big fan of bright colors, I fell in love with these right away. The blues and oranges work perfectly with a clean white upper. 

If these perform anywhere near how good they look, these could easily become my go-to pair. 

Materials

I’m in love with the materials. The upper is made from extremely supple leather that’s buttery soft to the touch. And I’m happy to report that the added waterproof coating doesn’t take away from the gorgeous looks or amazing feel. 

But the great materials come with a slight drawback; the Adidas Tour360 22 is not breathable at all. If you’re one of those people that naturally run hot, or if you do a lot of your golfing in warmer climates, you might consider looking in a different direction. 

Some extra ventilation cutouts in the tongue would have been helpful in this regard. But nonetheless, the premium materials felt…premium!

Traction

I had high hopes for the Adidas Tour360 22 in the traction department, and these far surpassed the mark.

Generally, I expect the spiked options to provide exceptional grip, especially when compared to spikeless offerings such as the Jordan 1 Low G. These fit the bill perfectly. They feature what Adidas calls SPIKEMORE traction, complete with 6 TPU spikes to ensure maximum grab and grip.

The additional traction nubs (what I’m assuming is the SPIKEMORE) provided great lateral and rotational grip and served as a great compliment to the claw-like spikes. 

Cushion

Is Boost still life? 

The dual-stacked Boost midsole on the Adidas Tour360 22 offered great step-in comfort, without feeling overly bouncy or plush. Whether I was making explosive or finesse moves, these felt awesome. Admittedly, I was worried that the Boost would cave a little too much when shifting my weight through the swing, but I had no issues at all. 

In my opinion, too much cushion can be a bad thing in a sport that relies on generating power with the lower body, but the Adidas Tour360 22 implemented the Boost perfectly. Adidas found a perfect balance between energy return, comfort, and stability that make these an excellent option for the walker or the rider. 

Speaking of stability…

Stability

The combination of the great traction and excellent cushion made these a very stable shoe overall. I found these to be less narrow than a shoe like the Nike Dunk, which features a very narrow base. 

The wide base of the Adidas Tour360 22 gave me the confidence I needed to execute every swing. Uneven lies were no trouble at all, as I was able to escape even the most awkward of positions without losing stability.

Fit

The fit was excellent overall for the Adidas Tour360 22, in large part due to the 360Wrap support technology. Basically, Adidas used the TPU stripes on the sides of each shoe as a wrap to enhance the lockdown. With the shoelaces looped through the stripes, my feet felt secure on all sides and in every direction (hence the 360Wrap moniker). 

I went true to size, and that turned out to be the correct choice.

Adidas Tour360 22 Summary

Adidas wasn’t playing around with this year’s Tour spiked model. Bolstered by excellent traction and long-lasting comfort, the Adidas Tour360 22 is definitely a golf shoe you should get your hands on.

Nike Basketball Shoe Technology: A Practical Hooper’s GUIDE

Let’s talk all about Nike basketball shoe technology. A confusing topic for some, familiar for others, and even completely redundant for a good portion as they’re simply shopping for a good sneaker and not exactly interested in the nooks n’ crannies of shoe technology.

Take it easy – I’ve got something for all.

THE PREMISE

I always wanted to allocate a good portion of time and put together a guide like this simply because there’s barely anything similar out there online that’s practical, well-constructed, and regularly updated.

That’s right, even Nikey doesn’t really keep a hold of something like that for the masses. It’s been a while since I’ve been thinking about it and we’re finally here!

Let’s set it straight from a practical, easy-to-understand way that could potentially help you out when you venture out and buy your next pair of hoop shoes with a Swoosh on them.

Why start with Nikey? Pretty obvious.

It’s single-handedly the biggest sneaker brand in the world right now and 95% (I made that number up but it’s probably not far from reality) of everyday consumers lean towards what’s most popular and more respected.

HOWEVER, be on the lookout for similar breakdowns across many other sneaker brands – those are coming soon!

Sneaker connoisseurs – this will be a good one.

I. WHY YOU SHOULD KNOW YOUR TECH

Don’t let the brands sell you their shiny objects – know what MATTERS

During my years of playing sports (mainly basketball but also running, boxing & training to stay in shape), I see a plethora of different ways Nikey, adidas, Under Armour, and the rest are constantly trying to market their used technology to help their sales and also appeal to mass audiences that might not know a lot about shoe design.

And a good portion of this audience isn’t even interested in learning that stuff, to begin with.

I have to be honest, I still don’t think our favorite brands don’t do a good & honest enough job to present the tools that literally propelled them to the top numbers and authority-wise.

But why’s that even important, you ask?

Becoming an informed consumer that knows what he’s getting is far better than your regular buyer that gets hyped over a fancy new name that our friends at the Swoosh facility put out and markets as the “new THING”.

In result, that person then falls for the claims and spends more $$$ than he/she probably should’ve.

While alternatively, that buyer could’ve done just a little bit of research of what “Zoom Air” or “a hexagon Zoom unit in the forefoot” actually is, and found out that the shoe might not have even met one’s original desires beforehand.

What happens now is he/she is essentially buying a re-skin of the same shoe that launched a year ago but this one’s just marketed better. This happens all the time.

EXAMPLE: THE SELF-LACING PROPAGANDA

  

Let’s give an example that happened not long ago. The Nike Adapt BB 2.0.

Launched in 2020, Nikey claimed it’s the next best thing and the foundation of advanced basketball shoe technology to come. The main selling point is the laceless design which makes use of the FitAdapt technology that locks down your foot with a push of a button.

No hand interference needed and you can even customize the fit via a smartphone app.

Sounds really damn cool, doesn’t it?

Well, I happened to play in the shoe for a few months and I wrote a full review on it. I wasn’t a big fan of the automatic “lacing” system, the fit felt off at times, and the shoe is definitely hefty-feeling since a motor needs to be in place to control the fit.

Not to mention the app you customize your fit through is severely limited and only lets you choose between a handful of presets, while these kicks will run you a whopping $350 at retail.

I don’t think I need to tell you there are far better-performing basketball shoes on the market for literally a third of this price tag. Just without the fancy motors and “next-gen” tech.

And where are we now with the whole “next generation of basketball shoes”? Same where we were a few years ago. Just two Adapt shoes from Nikey that are both subpar. That’s it.

WATCH OUT FOR FANCY DESCRIPTIONS

Now, of course, a lot of people are careful, and will likely do some research/digging online to see what others think of a new product and the reliability behind the technology.

But a lot of them simply won’t.

All Nikey needs to do is put the word “explosive” or “springy” cushioning onto their shoe description and a good portion of folks will fall for it. We have to know the tech, at least on a basic level, to have a grasp of what’s being thrown at us.

A thin drop-in of Lunarlon can never be explosive. It just can’t. A 6 mm hexagon Zoom unit in the forefoot will never feel “bouncy”. If you know those things – good for you.

If you don’t – you’ll likely get excited more than you should and end up purchasing something that won’t meet your expectations.

Once you get a grasp of today’s shoe technology, you will:

• know the key differences between Nike’s used tech
• be able to better tailor a setup that you personally prefer
• future purchases will become more seamless & won’t require as much research
• end up saving a lot of $$$ since you’ll know what you’re getting (for the most part)

However, there’s one more CRITICAL factor you should know before getting deep into the tech.

II. IMPLEMENTATION. IT MATTERS.

It’s not all about the names and numbers

 

You might know all the tech names and have an idea of how they differ – that’s not all you should be aware of.

Implementation is key. Every single time.

Shoe A can feel very different from shoe B, while both have the “same” tech specs, based on what the manufacturers’ descriptions tell us.

But they’re not essentially the same, at least most of the time. I’m no shoe engineer/designer by any means, so getting deep into the specifics of crafting a shoe from zero is probably not the best idea both for you and me.

HOWEVER, hear me out.

FACTORS THAT GO INTO ALTERING YOUR EXPERIENCE

 

Speaking from personal experience and a bit of knowledge, there are a lot of other components inside the shoe that alter the way the presented technology feels and plays.

Nike’s Zoom Air cushion pods, for example, are never identical for each shoe, despite each of the shoes’ spec sheets indicates it’s just Zoom Air.

Nikey uses these Zoom Air units in various diameters, both length-wise, and height-wise, and that can greatly alter how springy the unit feels underfoot.

In addition, the actual build of the shoe always varies, so the same Zoom Air can never feel the same between the two shoes, as they’re utilizing different stiffness carriers, different sculpting for the midsole, etc.

Take the adidas Ultraboost, a runner sneaker, and the Crazylight Boost 2016, a basketball sneaker. The two clearly use adidas’s Boost foam for cushioning, but I’d be lying if I said the ride of the midsole feels identical for both.

These kinds of instances are everywhere in the sneaker world. No foam is the same density across the shoes. A material might have the same marketing name across many sneakers, but it’s really not the exact same mixture every time.

Then there are the human hand factors and errors that happen because of it, and so on.

But most of the time, brands never really tell us these subtle details that can be very useful for picky & informed consumers. All we know from the surface are the tech names, and sometimes the basic anatomy of such technology that’s implemented.

SHOULD YOU ALWAYS DIVE DEEP INTO THE DETAILS?

Now, figuring out such intricate details yourself would either require you to take apart a shoe completely or get access to the engineers’ behind the scenes.

My guess is, none of the two options likely work for you, so you’re gonna have to trust us, the shoe fanatics to put together as much information as possible.

But even we have no real ways to find this stuff out most of the time, so actually putting the kicks to the test in their respective sports environments is the only way to properly gauge the performance offered & get a feel for the differences between similar shoes.

So before you run off thinking you’ve got it all figured out and quickly jump to conclusions when it comes to buying sneakers – get your smart hat on and take all the information with a grain of salt.

adidas’s Boost foam or Nike’s Flyknit material WILL feel and perform similarly across many shoes, yes. You’ll have a good sense of what works for you and what doesn’t, but that also means you won’t exactly get it right 100% of the time.

There are just too many variables involved, and stuff won’t feel identical even though it’s got the same name attached. So spend some time researching the shoes, read full & honest shoe reviews from people that invested a good portion of their time testing ’em.

Make sure to check out multiple takes on the same shoe from different people. It’s the only multi-varied bit of research you can mostly do if you don’t have the shoe yourself.

You can even find some sneaker deconstruction videos on YouTube for some of the kicks. If you’re into that sorta thing.

And once you’re comfortable with the data you collected, it’s time to wing it and hpe for the best. Remember, game time is still the best time to find out what you like and what you’ll likely stay away from.

To sum it up, these are the main points to remember:

• implementation matters – the same tech almost never feels the same across different shoes
• us, the consumers, usually have no ways of finding out the details brands don’t tell us about, so you’re not always going to get it right
• have some general knowledge about shoe tech, read/watch full sneaker reviews to make a better purchase decision and then just go for it – there’s not a lot more you can do about it
• actually wearing & testing the shoes is still the best way to find out what you like – the more stuff you try, the easier it’ll be to choose later

III. NIKE BASKETBALL SHOE TECHNOLOGY

Last updated: March 15th, 2022

Note: I also included technologies utilized and patented by Jordan Brand alongside Nike because, as we know, the Swoosh owns the Jordan label and both trademarks share a lot of their design & tech names.

It only makes sense that you get familiar with both trademarks’ shoe catalogs.

Also, only the currently active and used technology throughout Nike’s hoop shoe catalog is included since it’s no longer relevant to mention outdated terms Nike has previously used and discontinued.

Expect changes to the list fairly quickly since Nike is notorious for changing up their patented names for marketing purposes even though the actual changes to components used in the shoe are often extremely minimal.

CUSHIONING

What is it: a mixture of compounds (usually foam) utilized in the shoe’s midsole to protect the wearer from impact upon landings, jumps, take-offs, and other athletic movements that put your joints, bones, and tendons under excessive stress.

It’s also commonly used to provide the wearer with sufficient step comfort for long periods of playing a sport and offer a sensation of “spring back” upon movements that often causes the athlete to feel more confident and explosive.

Air

The OG of them all. Air has debuted in 1979 and has remained a staple in Nike’s cushioning technology ever since.

The premise of Air is simple: pressurized nitrogen inside of a flexible bag. Upon a movement, all the air inside the membrane compresses and then quickly pops back into its original state, thus causing an explosive sensation underfoot.

It’s not perfect. Air is not the fastest, nor the lightest solution among Nike’s current cushioning technology library but it’s still successfully used in a few of today’s basketball sneakers.

Air cushion comes in different variants depending on the shoe. It can be featured regionally (like in the heel or forefoot portion) but nowadays, you’ll mostly see it in a full-length fashion on a hoop shoe.

It’s definitely not the #1 choice when you’re going all-out explosiveness and bounce underfoot. It will give you some of that but Air is mostly there to quietly absorb impact upon high-force movements and also to provide some comfort while you hoop.

A pretty versatile choice that won’t exactly turn anyone’s heads but there’s a good chance you won’t be particularly disappointed when trying it for the first time, regardless of your position or style.

Notable properties: good impact protection while keeping a low profile when needed; leans more towards a mushier ride rather than a springback feel; fairly versatile; moderatly durable

Notable shoes: Jordan Zion 1 (full-length Air Strobel); Nike PG 5 (full-length Air Strobel stitched directly to the upper)

Max Air

The second iteration of original Air and what created the cult-classic Air Max shoe line.

Max Air (but you’ll often see it named Air Max among lifestyle shoes) is fine-tuned Air technology, so it’s the same pressurized air inside of a bag that decompresses and springs back into its original shape.

However, this time, there are two twists.

Firstly, Max Air was crafted to achieve maximum impact absorption over anything else. This means that the bags used are usually larger. This results in awesome comfort, soft landings, and your knees not aching after a 2-hour session. Usually.

Secondly, Max Air is also about being flashy. It’s designed to be visible in the shoe’s midsole, so in a way, wearers can almost look inside the technology and feel good about it.

So, you’d be correct in saying that this solely exists because of Nikey’s marketing purposes.

Max Air is not the most durable cushion compound there is.

Larger bags contain more air and more room to compress. This results in athletes popping their bags due to overuse or the bags simply bottoming out over time and losing their effectiveness, sometimes almost entirely.

This cushion usually comes in the form of regional units – particularly the heel or the forefoot areas and you’ll definitely see them when they’re there. I don’t think I’ve seen a recent basketball shoe that features full-length Max Air.

Notable properties: comfortable ride w. excellent impact protection; elevated ride height; not the best durability

Notable shoes: Nike LeBron 19 (360º forefoot Max Air unit); Nike Air Max Impact 2 (heel Max Air unit)

Zoom Air

image source: nike.comnike.com

Debuted in 1995 as a direct upgrade from original Air, the now massively widely-used cushion technology consists of a pressurized air unit in a form of a capsule/pod, and inside it are very tightly knit tensile fibers.

Those fibers compress inside the unit when you put pressure and they quickly spring back to their original state, creating a spring back or “bouncy” feel that propels your movements.

Zoom Air is undeniably the most widely used cushion technology, all brands included. Its implementation can be dynamic, as it’s utilized in shoes that span across different sports: running, basketball, cross-training, volleyball, soccer, and more.

Zoom has a tendency of staying fairly low to the ground, so athletes can feel low profile while receiving impact protection & energy return upon movements.

It’s also very durable (something Air lacks), as most shoes last a very long time before the Zoom capsules start to bottom out and lose their effectiveness.

This technology is the definition of implementation matters.

Setups vary from the firmest & quickest to the absolute bounciest as it comes in forms of regional units (most commonly in the forefoot & heel areas), larger slabs that cover more territory under the foot, or even full-length strobels that go from heel to toe.

The regional units are usually either circular or smaller, hexagonal shaped. Hexagonal units usually tend to be firmer, lower to the ground.

The bigger the unit is, the more impact protection & energy return it usually offers and the softer the overall ride feels.

Notable properties: very dynamic for various sports; keeps a low profile while providing good cushioning properties; amount of energy return can vary greatly; fairly durable

Notable shoes: Nike Zoom Freak 3 (2 forefoot Zoom Air units), Nike Cosmic Unity (full-length Zoom Air strobel)

Air Zoom Turbo

 

Introduced with the Kyrie 5, The same good ol’ Zoom Air, just slightly more tailored to a fast, shifty guard’s style of play.

My guess is, the fibers inside the capsule (what’s used on regular Zoom) are even more tightly knit to provide a quicker response upon a movement.

The overall compound used is usually firmer too, so expect a ride that’s lower to the ground, quicker, and a bit less plush than original Zoom Air.

And that’s how Nikey gets you. It’s pretty much the same Zoom Air but they decided to give this slight modification a new name to attract customers who are looking for that “perfect guard’s shoe”.

The thing is, we’ve already seen thousands of different Zoom Air versions and iterations on many different shoes that all feature the same Zoom Air, according to Nike.

This is no different but the likely reason why there’s a new name is that the Swoosh need to promote the new Kyrie shoes somehow. It’s misleading, I know.

Expect Air Zoom Turbo to be just as reliable as Zoom Air. And of course, the ride height will depend on how large the used units are.

You won’t see this particular name on many shoes, especially hoop shoes. Expect Air Zoom Turbo to be featured mainly on Kyrie’s signature lineup.

Notable properties: firmer, more compact than Zoom Air; very quick spring back properties; moderate impact protection; excellent durability

Notable shoes: Nike Kyrie 7 (forefoot hexagonal Air Zoom Turbo unit); Nike Kyrie 6 (forefoot hexagonal Air Zoom Turbo unit)

Lunarlon

 

Lunarlon is Nike’s attempt to mobilize, quicken, and lighten a player’s ride without taking away what’s awesome about cushion: bounce and a buttery-smooth stride.

This cushion compound is a mixture of EVA foam and air, so a result similar to Zoom Air is achieved, just in a different form. According to Nike, Lunarlon is 30% lighter than their entry-level Phylon foam.

Lunarlon has always consisted of 2 components: a softer core that takes care of impact protection & comfort, and a more resilient carrier that goes around it to provide stability and protect the foam from breaking down too quickly.

This results in a few differences from Nike’s more popular Zoom Air & Max Air solutions.

Lunarlon is lighter, can be more compact, and barely elevates your ride height while still offering good cushion. Some of such Lunarlon midsoles look absurdly thin and it’s hard to think they even offer such a level of compression.

However, foam is foam and it does have its downsides.

The perceived sensation of spring back or energy return can never be as quick and explosive as what Zoom Air achieves. Lunarlon is also probably the most unreliable compound among Nikey’s whole catalog.

In the past, lots of hoopers would report Lunarlon bottoming out in as few as a couple of months or even WEEKS.

Kobe’s shoe lines were notorious for utilizing and perfecting Lunarlon. It produced some of the better guard’s shoes to date that are also capable of providing a subtle, yet balanced solution for just about anyone who’s looking to stay effective in their game but not lose any quickness.

Notable properties: lightweight but well-balanced for comfort & mobility; fairly fast & low-profile ride; poor durability

Notable shoes: Nike Kobe A.D. NXT 360 (React & Lunarlon drop-in midsole); Nike Kobe A.D. (Zoom Air & Lunarlon midsole)

React

 

React was Nikey’s supposed breakthrough foam compound that was meant to take over and improve over the already excellent Lunarlon cushioning.

The brand claims that React yields 13% more energy return upon every movement when compared to Lunarlon.

I personally really like React, however, I only like it when they use it graciously. This compound is extremely light, it’s got super fast energy return properties while keeping a low profile and it will last you a very long time before you start feeling less effective.

However, React is commonly used in a very dense and subtle manner among hoop shoes. That’s why you wouldn’t always experience what Nikey advertises when getting a React sneaker: unrivaled energy return but also a plush ride.

So, I’d still say React is best for those in need of a fast, precise setup that won’t cost you extra miliseconds upon a take-off.

However, use a gracious slab of React and you’ll soon see the potential. That’s when React quickly becomes my favorite solution for a balanced experience. Although such cases are fairly rare among hoop shoes today.

Notable properties: extremely lightweight & quick foam; good impact protection while staying low to the ground; can be very comfortable if a lot is utilized; great durability

Notable shoes: Nike LeBron 18 Low (full-length React midsole); Nike Air Zoom G.T. Run (full-length React midsole)

Renew

 

Here’s to confusion. Nikey really did punch us in the face with the sudden marketing of this supposedly new compound – Renew.

However, the truth is, Renew is just rebranded Lunarlon, just perhaps with some slight modifications which made it generally a bit softer and more pleasant to wear.

Even the base description of this technology rings just about the same as Lunarlon’s: “Nike Renew technology combines a soft inner core of foam surrounded by a firmer foam for springy and resilient cushioning.”

For a newcomer into the basketball sneaker world, both of the mentioned compounds won’t feel much different to you.

Renew is still the same solid but unreliable stuff that’s now been rebranded into a “budget” cushion setup that you’ll find on cheaper hoop shoes.

Will we ever see actual Lunarlon being marketed on a basketball shoe again? That’s yet to be known but expect more stuff with Renew among takedown basketball shoe lines.

Notable properties: well-balanced for comfort & mobility; can be a fast ride or a softer/mushier one; subpar durability

Notable shoes: Nike KD Trey 5 IX (full-length Renew midsole w. Zoom Air); Nike Renew Elevate 2 (full-length Renew foam w. a firmer compound)

Phylon

 

Think of Phylon as a supplemental solution to a main cushioning system that Nike already uses in their shoes. Phylon is a basic EVA foam compound.

These are the most common uses of Phylon among today’s sneakers: it’s either used on a cheap shoe by itself to save costs or accompanied by a flagship setup (like Zoom Air) as a combination. The more common scenario is the latter.

Phylon is a dense foam compound and that means two things: it’s extremely durable but it’s far from your softest & springiest midsoles.

Now, of course, Phylon isn’t always the same as designers can always tweak the density and properties of the compound, which is why a shoe like the Zoom Rize 2 featuring Phylon feels so amazing.

But usually, expect Phylon to be quite firm, stable, reliable, and not-so-special in the cushioning realms of Nikey.

Notable properties: very dynamic – can be firmer or softer; versatile foam to accompany any cushion setup; excellent durability

Notable shoes: Nike Precision 5 (Phylon midsole); Nike PG 5 (Phylon midsole w. Air Sole setup)

Cushlon

 

Another supplemental foam compound that’s also there to accompany a cushioning system in a form of a midsole. Cushlon is also a standard EVA foam, however, it’s a one-up version of Phylon, so it’s much softer, comfier, and pleasant to hoop in.

I don’t know does it exactly compare to Phylon reliability-wise but I do know that Cushlon-featured shoes will cost you more.

Although it’s worth it – it can feel night and day vs. your cheaper setups and Cushlon comes in a less dense, more forgiving compound. More compression – more fun.

Notable properties: very comfortable & soft ride but fairly well-balanced; versatile foam to accompany any cushion setup; good durability

Notable shoes: Nike KD 14 (Cushlon midsole w. Zoom Air setup); Nike LeBron 19 (Cushlon midsole w. Zoom Air & Max Air setup)

MATERIALS

What is it:brands constantly innovate to make lighter, more durable, and more efficient materials that make up the build of a shoe.

New mixtures of compounds and their design intricacies encouraged brands to name their patented material choices as new technologies.

That is both a good thing (since it helps the consumer recognize and differentiate what the manufacturer is using throughout various products) and a bad thing since it can often be misleading as most of such material technology names are just made-up terms that give the shoe extra marketing value.

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Flyknit

Flyknit came a pretty long way after being introduced to the public in 2012.

It’s a digitally engineered knit material that’s strategically knitted to mimic one’s foot shape, so a lot of Flyknit shoes kind of feel like a thick sock or an extension of your foot. It’s awesome.

The main advantages of such builds are how light they feel on-foot, excellent formfitting properties, breathability, and an overall sense that this stuff just feels one-to-one with your foot.

Now, of course, knit-based materials are not going to be as durable as something like leather or more structured synthetics, so reliability could be considered a downside.

It’s unknown if Flyknit at its pure form will return on a new basketball shoe but it’s worth keeping an eye on.

Notable properties: extremely lightweight & mobile; fantastic molding properties to one’s foot shape; moderate ventilation; not the worst durability for a fabric material

Notable shoes: Nike Kobe A.D. NXT 360 (360º full-on Flyknit build); Nike React Hyperdunk 2017 Flyknit (Flyknit upper w. strategic nylon yarn reinforcements)

Battleknit

 

Remember what I said about Flyknit’s lack of longevity since it’s just a knit? Well, LeBron’s main signature shoe line introduced modified versions of the already awesome Flyknit.

One of those is Battleknit. Debuted on the LeBron 15, Battleknit is an attempt to keep all the amazing properties of Flyknit (comfort, lightweight, mobility) and improve upon durability & structure to better contain the foot during movements.

This is achieved by stitching the knit with a sleeve of nylon as a reinforcement. It strategically stretches and provides comfort but stays tight upon lateral movements. It’s absolutely one of my favorite iterations of such a build, especially for outdoor play.

While it still might not be as durable as genuine leather or suede, it’s pretty close. Remember, it’s a damn knit we’re talking about here.

Notable properties: lightweight & mobile yet durable due to infused reinforcements; good molding properties to one’s foot shape; minimal ventilation

Notable shoes: Nike LeBron IX (Battleknit upper); Nike LeBron XVI (Battleknit 2.0 upper)

KnitPosite

 

Don’t get too confused with all this fancy marketing from Nike – KnitPosite is yet another version of their modified Flyknit setup.

This one debuted on the LeBron XVII and it’s a little bit different from Battleknit. This time, knit has been TPU infused with yarns for more structure and durability. It’s strategically infused in areas where you need better structure.

It’s probably the more durable option than Battleknit but I doubt the differences are large. I’ve tried both for long periods of time and both seem to hold just fine, minus a few cosmetic wear & tear signs.

Since the reinforcements used are glue-based, you won’t get as much ventilation as you would on a Battleknit version, not to say on a pure Flyknit option.

However, names are just names – are three iterations of such builds are awesome. They’re comfy, durable, and have awesome formfitting capabilities in a short period of time.

Notable properties: solid balance between mobility and comfort; moderately fast molding properties; poor ventilation; excellent durability for a knit

Notable shoes: Nike LeBron XVII (KnitPosite upper); Nike LeBron XVIII (KnitPosite 2.0 upper)

Leno-Weave

 

Nikey’s name Leno-Weave means a leno jacquard weave material. It has debuted on the Air Jordan 36 and is currently the only shoe that utilizes it in terms of basketball options.

It’s some of the thinnest & lightest stuff you can find and yet it’s pretty damn durable since this type of weave provides minimal stretch and its used yarn are very strong.

I don’t yet have much experience with this one but what I can say is it’s surprisingly well-structured though doesn’t feel like a burden while playing.

It form fits my foot just how much it needs to and then you’re left with a light, comfortable package that doesn’t get in the way.

Breathability is also excellent with Leno-Weave since it’s an open weave design. If you don’t want a tough leather build nor a flimsy knit, a jacquard-based option like this might just give you the best of both worlds.

Notable properties: extremely lightweight but very durable; minimal stretching/molding properties; good ventilation

Notable shoes: Air Jordan XXXVI (Leno-Weave upper)

FIT/CONSTRUCTION

What is it: additional details, components, or design choices that add value to the existing build of the shoe in one way or another.

 

This is Nikey’s effort to make shoes “easier for everyone” according to them. It’s a system that allows wearers to put on and take off a shoe with one or no hands, and also do it very quickly.

Several existing models of hoop shoes have their FlyEase versions which modify the build for easier entry, better formfitting properties to accommodate any foot shape, and stay equally as secure as you would on a regular shoe.

This is usually done via the help of modular upper solutions, straps zip-up lockdown systems, and wider upper collars for easier entry.

Notable properties: a system that makes a shoe more modular, easier to put on and operate

Notable shoes: Nike LeBron Soldier 13 FlyEase; Nike Zoom UNVRS FlyEase

SUPPORT/SECURITY

What is it: features implemented that help strengthen the shoe’s security properties such as lateral stability, foot containment, or the wearer’s overall level of confidence support-wise when playing.

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Eclipse Plate

 

Nikey is notorious for naming its shank/torsional component to market it as something special.

Previously FlightPlate, then Speed Plate, and now Eclipse Plate, it’s simply a TPU (hard plastic) plate that sits in the midfoot portion and handles most of the load for providing torsional support.

It also allows for smooth and supportive heel-to-toe strides and doesn’t allow the wearer to overpronate.

Certain releases of shoes feature carbon fiber plates which are heavier but are generally stronger and more durable. TPU is not a bad option either though, as it likely will never break down on you anyway.

Notable properties: fairly lightweight but provides good torsional support; can take a bit to break in; not as strong as carbon fiber plates

Notable shoes: Air Jordan XXXIV (Eclipse Plate); Air Jordan XXXV (Ecplise Plate 2.0)

OTHER

What is it: any other technologies from Nike that don’t belong to any particular category but still add value/effectiveness to the shoe in various ways.

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FitAdapt

 

The supposed next generation of basketball shoes arrived with the introduction of FitAdapt. Or did it?

FitAdapt is Nike’s attempt to take a wearer’s putting on and off process of a shoe to a new level. Yes, it’s a motor-powered basketball shoe that locks you down with a push of a button, no laces required.

The shoe is paired with the Nike Adapt app which lets you remotely control the shoe’s fit via a smartphone.

All of this sounds really cool and innovative, sure. I don’t think I have to tell you there are a few nuances about this one.

First off, this whole system with the motor situation is heaaaavy. I don’t usually complain about a shoe’s weight when I’m playing but I could really feel it this time.

Also, as of right now, the system is fairly limited in terms of how precisely you’d like to tailor your fit, so you’re mostly stuck with a few options Nike gives you.

I know it’s currently just the second iteration of such a system in the basketball sphere but who knows if there will be more?

If you’re keen on spending a pretty penny just to try what Nikey has cooked up – by all means, do it.

For those who are looking to spend their dollar to get the best possible performer for the job – maybe hold on for now or check out some of the actually awesome hoop shoes for the $$$.

Notable properties: self-lacing technology via the buttons or a phone app; powered by a motor inside the shoe; limited fit customization options; heavy

Notable shoes: Nike Adapt BB (FitAdapt technology); Nike Adapt BB 2.0 (FitAdapt technology)

IV. HOOPING IS STILL THE #1 ANSWER

Knowledge is nothing without experience

This concludes the current tech list & all you need to know about Nike basketball shoe technology to get you started.

HOWEVER, this is FAR from where your hoop shoe journey should end. I’m no expert at sneaker design but it doesn’t take one to understand that knowledge without practice is just that. Knowledge.

You can think you’ve made an incredibly informed purchase decision based on the countless shoe reviews you’ve read/watched, 100’s of user feedback comments you’ve seen, and a number of informative guides you’ve soaked in.

And while in theory, that would be the best you can do before you buy a shoe, it’s no secret that actually hooping and putting those hours on the court while trying a bunch of different stuff while you find something that sticks is what truly turns knowledge into expertise.

Or if you don’t want to go that far, let’s just say you’ll be familiar with what you like and don’t like on your feet while pulling crossovers, feeding passes, and cooking jump shots with your guys.

Seems pretty obvious, sure, but what I’m saying is don’t be afraid to try something new even if it seems like that particular model/component doesn’t allocate with your preferences on paper.

FORGET ABOUT CATEGORIZATIONS IN THE NEW ERA

I personally was a strict adidas-only guy when it came to basketball sneakers for a good 3-4 years. I felt like most of what adidas has to offer simply fit me and my style better than what Nikey ever had to offer at that time.

To me, it seemed like adidas simply made better guard shoes that are still properly balanced and gave you plentiful comfort without taking away speed & mobility.

Then in 2015, the Three Stripes introduced Boost and I absolutely fell in love with it.

However, in the meantime, the guys at Nikey never stopped innovating either and I happened to try a pair of Nikey’s that a friend got and praised that they’re the most amazing thing he’s worn on-court.

And then things changed.

Truth is, they always made good shoes for just about any position but it doesn’t always mean that all guards should only aim for shoes that are marketed as “guard’s shoes”. The lines are blurred today more than ever since everyone’s skillset is getting broader by the minute.

I never thought I’d end up loving a pair of Hyperdunks (back when their tech and design were still being mostly credited as the “big guy’s choice”) despite my 170 lbs build and 6’0 height at that time.

So, get that low-profile Kyrie 8 even if you’re used to a mushy, bouncy LeBron 18. Maybe you didn’t even know that you’d fall in love with a fast guard’s sneaker?

Get that pair of Kobe low-tops even if you’ve been playing in mids your whole life. Perhaps you have no idea how comfy and free you’d feel without an ankle collar?

Try that new Under Armour shoe despite being used to Nikey’s or Jordan’s stuff even if you think UA doesn’t make what you think you need at the moment.

You get the idea.

Basketball Shoes vs. Running Shoes: A Comprehensive Guide

Been shooting hoops with runners or pushing your mileage on the track in a pair of LeBrons or Jordans? You might be doing yourself a disservice. No matter what’s your athletic level, I cannot stress enough how important it is to educate yourself on everything there’s to know about basketball shoes vs. running shoes.

Before you take your hoop kicks for a run or vice versa, let me break down the differences between these two types of shoes, explain if you should wear athletic sneakers that aren’t tailored to that sport, and recommend some options if you’re not looking to get different shoes for different activities.

I. BASKETBALL SHOES: KEY QUALITIES

Here are the most important principles to know about basketball shoes and the reasoning behind their design features

A basketball shoe is “beefier” than your traditional runner sneaker.

Both sports aim to supplement different types of movements based on the activity, though some design choices can be quite similar. This is especially true nowadays, as the norms for modern basketball footwear are rapidly shifting to compete for the lightest, most mobile, and most comfortable possible.

Big brands like Nike and Adidas share their patented shoe technology (cushion, materials, etc.) between shoe types, so athletic footwear across different sports are the most similar to one another today than ever before.

HOWEVER, for basketball shoes, maintaining the necessary structure, support, and sport-specific components is still vital which is why hoop shoes and runners can NEVER be made or feel the same.

With that, here are the main qualities of most basketball shoes you’ll come across.

STRONG STRUCTURAL BUILD

Basketball requires intensive, reactive, and rapid movements to be performed such as quick accelerations or decelerations, multiple jumps in a short timeframe, changes of direction laterally, and many more. Because it’s such a dynamic sport, footwear has to account for that.

Basketball players need a good base of structure with their footwear that can properly support their foot’s movements and various angles being thrown at them constantly.

Even though a lot of today’s hoop shoe market is creeping into the light and minimal waters more and more, most of the shoes still have some form of a structured build.

Multi-layered material design, additional compounds that are infused into the base build for strength, or synthetic/plastic reinforcements on key areas (such as laterally) are just some of the examples of how hoop shoes are beefed up to be able to account for the torque you generate while playing.

You’ll rarely see a basketball sneaker that’s just all pure knit or woven.

There’s always something to hold it together more tightly or something implemented to account for the material’s weaker spots whether it’s durability-wise or performance-wise.

HEAVY FOCUS ON CUSHIONING

I could debate all about the physiological/anatomy effects of cushioning for athletes for hours but it’s no denying that basketball shoes focus on providing the player with cushioning more than virtually any other sports sneaker. Maybe besides volleyball shoes.

While you’ll see some models built with a more minimal and low-profile cushioning system that emphasizes speed and precision (think of Kyrie or Curry shoes), a huge portion of the market still offers kicks that are bouncy, provide lots of impact absorption, and makes the overall ride more enjoyable for the wearer.

Of course, basketball is a jump-heavy sport, so it only makes sense for companies to heavily market their cushion technologies and how much they help you on the court.

But if you want a real take, cushioning does NOT actually decrease your chances of getting injured. At least there are no studies done to prove this yet.

Check this study out and you’ll see that there’s still no proven correlation between the amount of cushion and the amount of impact load for the athlete to handle.

Still though, lots of players prefer to have a good amount of feedback underfoot just because it makes each movement feel better, causing a sense of explosiveness and springiness which is a good thing for basketball.

HEAVIER WEIGHT

Because of generally more structure, more cushion (which usually means more foam used), additional support components such as plastic torsional shank plates, and thick rubber outsoles used to handle traction – all of this makes basketball shoes among the heaviest of sports footwear on the market.

But once again, don’t get too caught up in that statement or the weight numbers of hoop shoes simply because the times are changing.

Gone are the days when a full-on leather tank like a Penny shoe or a Jordan Retro was the norm for basketball. Things are getting very light & flexible without completely compromising other components.

A 15 oz shoe barely feels like one today just because of how well-crafted they are by designers who were perfecting their compound formulas for years, and also consulting with the players themselves.

But with that, hoop shoes are still noticeably heavier than running sneakers (with a few exceptions), and putting a modern running sneaker on after taking off a pair of LeBron 19s will in fact feel feathery.

SMALL HEEL-TO-TOE OFFSET

This one’s quite simple: hoop shoes usually utilize a more flat platform which promotes stability. You won’t see a drastic heel-to-toe drop-off on any basketball sneaker. The usual amount varies from 4 to 9 mm.

Basketball involves more varied movement patterns than just linear running as lateral & medial patterns have to be accounted for in a much bigger emphasis.

You don’t need your forefoot propelling you forward (as running shoes often do) as much as you need that extra lateral stability when ankle sprains and similar injuries are so common in the sport.

VARIED ANKLE CUT

High-tops were the gold standard for basketball footwear in the past but nowadays, you’ll see all kinds of ankle cuts. Low-tops have been popularized thanks to the Nike Kobe line, mid-tops are still the most common choice while high-tops have been slowly disappearing from the market.

And then there are all kinds of variants in between those streamlined choices, so this one comes down to personal preference.

Go for lows if you like your ankle to move freely and you prefer that extra mobility but some folks prefer a more classic mid-top design since they like to tighten the area around their ankle & heel for extra confidence.

WIDE PLATFORM

Lastly, you’ll often see that a basketball shoe simply looks quite wide. This isn’t always the case but it’s pretty common. The forefoot area usually covers the most ground and this is to provide further stability.

The more ground your shoe covers along with the foot, the more stable you’ll feel even during movements that require unusual angles. But again, I hate to sound like a broken record, but times are in fact changing.

You’ll find more narrowly-constructed basketball shoes today as some athletes simply prefer a tighter base that feels faster and more mobile. After all, the more material is used, the more your foot has to work to move with the shoe.

Think of KD shoes to illustrate that – those are really damn narrow and often a no-go for my crazy wide feet. However, it’s not hard to find a shoe that’s got a wider base since that’s still the norm and that won’t exactly change as it’s a feature that a lot of players require to perform safely.

II. RUNNING SHOES: KEY QUALITIES

Here’s all you need to know about the use and design reasons behind running shoes & how they differ from basketball kicks

Time to flip the coin and break down runners.

There are several types of running sneakers for different types of terrain: there are track shoes, runners for the road, and trail shoes. Each of those are built slightly differently since they need to accommodate for different variables while you’re running.

However, most running sneakers share a very similar foundation that can almost always be recognized even across different manufacturers.

Let’s talk about those base qualities you’ll generally find on most running shoes and how their design principles differ from basketball shoes.

MINIMAL & FLEXIBLE STRUCTURE

Earlier I mentioned how the trend for basketball shoes is shifting towards being light, mobile, and comfortable. Well, for runners, this is what it’s ALL about.

Sure, running sneakers also have their support features implemented since running can also be a taxing activity, especially if you’re running on abrasive and/or uneven surfaces like trails.

But the main focus is to provide an experience that’s as light, flexible, and distraction-free as possible. Making the build flexible to allow for smooth strides even on unforgiving surfaces matters a lot. The shoe has to move seamlessly with the foot while you’re running under dynamic conditions.

It can’t be a SHELL ON your foot (like a basketball shoe can in a way) – it has to be an EXTENSION OF your foot.

You’ll also want to stay comfy since you’ll be performing sporting activities for long periods of time. That’s where pure knit, woven or lightweight mesh builds come in handy as you’ll see that often among running shoe models.

So yes, running shoes are made to be as minimalistic as possible, while still offering a foundation of security and durability. It’s by far not as apparent as it is on the basketball shoe market though.

RESPONSIVE RIDE

Since running doesn’t require the athlete to constantly jump, land from higher altitudes, or drastically change directions, the focus for cushioning becomes less about impact protection and more about responsiveness and movement propulsion.

There’s still some form of shock absorption on runners since most brands use the same cushion technology between shoes. Nikey uses Zoom Air & React for a lot of their footwear for example. But even if you come across the same tech on a runner, the compounds are altered in a way to be denser, lighter, and lower to the ground.

This still keeps the energy return properties of the cushion but reduces weight, keeping you fast and low to the ground. Every millisecond matters in the sport of running and the cushion system has to account for that.

So, running sneakers will feel noticeably less bouncy but faster than basketball kicks. They’ll also feel less “mushy” as the foam used will be denser. You’ll also often feel slapped much lower to the ground.

LIGHTWEIGHT

Unlike basketball, even a few ounces of extra weight DO matter if you’re running long distances as foot & leg fatigue kicks in.

Due to a more minimal structure, less cushion, subdued support components and usually a fully synthetic upper, you’ll find that pretty much all running shoes are very lightweight. There’s no reason for them not to be and this will remain to be the case in the market.

Trail runners will be a tad bit heavier due to their beefier outsoles to handle harsh terrains and slightly more structure throughout the upper but the overall feel will still be lighter than your average basketball shoe.

APPARENT HEEL-TO-TOE OFFSET

Running footwear is designed to propel you forward upon each stride which allows the movements to feel fast & sharp.

This is done by, of course, making the sneaker lightweight, allowing the forefoot portion to flex a great deal, and also by implementing a more noticeable drop-off from heel to toe. You’ll commonly find a 7-10mm+ drop-off in most runners.

This mimics the running motion and encourages the foot to propel forward causing a very energetic sense of stride.

But this also means that the shoe is allocating your feet in an unnatural position. Research is still not conclusive on this topic, as studies haven’t found a direct correlation between running performance, injury rates, and shoe drop-off height.

So at the end of the day, going with what you prefer is the way to go. Opt for a flatter running shoe if you want more stability or you’re experiencing some forefoot issues like pain.

Otherwise, sticking with a traditional runner that has a noticeable drop-off is not something you should avoid as there’s still no research to prove otherwise.

STREAMLINED LOW-TOP DESIGN

Basketball shoe catalogs might offer all kinds of ankle cuts to choose from but runners will always go with a low-top design.

This is done purposefully. Remember, even the smallest amount of extra weight can matter for a runner. Mobility is also taken into account – most runners would never like the idea of extra material around the ankle getting in the way while they run.

Ankle height DOES NOT account for greater ankle support, so there’s no reason to include an extra collar when mobility is such an important factor.

Yes, you heard me right. The whole idea of “the higher the shoe, the better the support” is a myth that’s been busted many times over. Check out my guide on this topic specifically for basketball shoes if you’re interested to learn more.

MORE COMPACT/NARROW PLATFORM

Opposite from hoop shoes, runners feature a more sleek, compact design that isn’t as preposterously wide in the forefoot. Remember that they also utilize less cushion, so lateral stability isn’t as big of an issue even for a more narrow platform.

A more narrow base encourages a quick linear stride which is what athletes prefer. There are some running sneakers that have a wider base but even if you’d take those, an average basketball sneaker would still usually have a wider overall platform to ride on.

III. BASKETBALL SHOES FOR RUNNING?

Now that we’ve learned about both shoes, let’s break down IF and WHEN you could consider wearing hoop shoes for a run

Now that you’re aware of the qualities both types of shoes usually have and their key differences, chances are you already know the answer to the question “Could I wear a basketball shoe for running?”

I’ll say this – when compared, it’s SAFER to wear a hoop shoe for running than it is to wear a running shoe for basketball. But that’s only if they’re put against each other – I’d generally encourage people NOT to do it in both cases. Even if you’re not a professional athlete.

Caring about your health is enough in my opinion.

WHY YOU SHOULD AVOID IT WHEN YOU CAN

So why shouldn’t you run in basketball shoes? There are a few things where basketball footwear simply doesn’t align with the mechanics of long-distance running.

Firstly, hoop shoes are heavy in comparison and you’ll definitely feel it if you’re running respectable distances. Foot and leg fatigue will kick much faster than it normally would. I’ve been there – trust me.

Secondly, your gait will feel off in a traditional basketball sneaker that sports a flat platform and a minimal drop-off. Each step can feel slappy and choppy and that will negatively affect performance.

And thirdly, the overabundance of cushioning as well as the lack of needed mobility can easily result in discomfort and even pain. The more cushion you’ve got underfoot, the more your muscles and tendons have to work to keep maximum effectiveness while sinking and popping out of the mushy foam.

If you’ve tried to run in a basketball shoe before – I’m sure you had your shins completely destroyed once or twice. I used to run in my single pair of hoop shoes (I think they were the D Rose 773 III if I remember correctly) since I couldn’t afford a second pair.

My shin muscles were absolutely on fire, even if it wasn’t that long of a run.

Your body will at least partly adapt to it eventually but there’s no reason to sacrifice performance and cause unnecessary fatigue.

Still, some of you will still probably do it. Whether you can’t afford a pair of additional sneakers for your runs or you’re just not able to take them with you for one reason or another, I’ve outlined some scenarios where it would be closer-to-okay to do it.

I still don’t recommend ideally but if you don’t have a choice, I HIGHLY recommend sticking to these scenarios.

EXCERCISE W. RUNNING ELEMENTS

If you’re doing a workout that involves some agility work – it might be okay. Sprints, short interval training – that type of stuff should be fine as short distances are covered.

If your workout is focused on basketball strength, movement quality and involves some agility training or basketball-specific movements, then I could see this as a scenario where there’s no reason to take your hoop shoes off. As long as you’re not running long distances on unforgiving terrain during your workouts – you’re good.

SHORT & OCCASIONAL RUNS

For those that would still like to go for runs in their hoop shoes, make sure to stick to shorter distances and also space out your runs in the week if you’re feeling heavy foot/leg fatigue. Listen to your body and react accordingly.

The term “short run” will mean different things depending on what kind of runner you are. For me, it’s anything under a mile, so that’s where I’d draw the line if I were to run in hoop shoes.

Now, that might not be relevant for you as you’re an experienced runner with muscles and tendons that are adapted to a heavier load. In that case, you probably know what a short run means for you, so stick to that.

Even if you’re not feeling unusual discomfort DURING the run, you might feel the aftereffects the next day, so be careful when you’re not using the footwear designed for that sport.

STICK TO LESS ABRASIVE SURFACES

Basketball shoes have a thicker rubber sole than a traditional runner and they’re also usually equipped with a stiffer last. Those two things mean that your foot won’t exactly be able to react to uneven terrain as naturally as it could with a more flexible runner.

This is one of the main causes of shin pain, fast foot fatigue, and other forms of discomfort and you should avoid this when possible. While in basketball shoes, sticking to tracks, asphalt, and other surfaces that aren’t as abrasive will reduce the chances of such discomfort.

As long as you’re combining short distances, proper recovery time in between runs, and a proper surface to run on, it’s doable with hoop shoes on.

WARM UP & COOL DOWN

Before each and every run (ESPECIALLY if it’s with basketball sneakers), you’ll want to prime your body for the load that’s to come. Make sure to do some dynamic stretching for your legs, upper body, ankles, and even feet.

This will ensure a smoother experience, reduce the risk of injury, and might even decrease your chances of getting fatigued quickly.

After a run, make sure to properly cool down as well. This means deep breathing, static stretching and if you can, thrown in some foam rolling. Roll through your quads, glutes, shins, hamstrings, and even feet.

This helps push lactic acid out of your muscle tissue, thus enhancing the rate of recovery.

IV. SHOE RECOMMENDATIONS

If you really want to do it or can’t get running shoes – I’ve cooked up some potential options

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Perhaps you want to save some cash by buying a single pair that’ll work both for hoops and running? While, again, I wouldn’t ideally recommend that, I’ve got some options that resemble the qualities close to a proper running shoe. It’s not a perfect solution but it can work.

I’ve actually got a list of the best minimalist basketball shoes – so anything from that list should pretty much do the trick but I chose three specific shoes that I think are the best candidates to achieving a close-to-a-runner feel.

CURRY FLOW 8

image source: underarmour.com

Stephen Curry’s independent Curry Brand debuted the Curry Flow 8 and I still think this is undoubtedly the closest you can get to a running sneaker. The whole build actually feels like a runner and it sports most of the qualities you’d need to run effectively.

It’s still not the perfect solution as it’s still a basketball shoe but this one’s probably the best you’re going to get.

The Curry Flow 8 offers responsive but extremely well-balanced Flow cushion, an outsole that’s completely made out of foam, and an ultra-lightweight knit upper.

It’s also got a noticeably over-average heel drop-off for a hoop shoe, it sports an internal bootie design for great lockdown and the step transitions with these are buttery smooth. It’s one hell of an experience.

Of course, there are a few downsides if we’re talking running. I’m really not sure if this foam sole would last long if you’ll be running on the road or on trails since there’s no rubber here. Another thing is the cushion. It might be a bit too much for a run but it’s definitely not as much as you’d find on a KD or a LeBron.

If we’re talking basketball shoes vs. running shoes here – the Curry Flow 8 blurs that line the most.

Retail price: $160

My rating: 8.3 (click for the full review)

Weight: 12.5 oz / 354 g. (size 10.5 US)

Build: knit w. synthetic side panels

Drop-off: 9 mm.

Cushion: full-length Flow

NIKE KOBE A.D. NXT 360

image source: nike.com

A very pricey feat but an incredibly comfortable sneaker, no denying that. I’ve had a ton of fun playing in these and this one probably comes as a close second as the best shoe for running.

The Kobe A.D. NXT 360 will impress you the most with its feathery build as it’s even lighter than the Curry Flow 8. The drop-in midsole cushion is great, even for running as the heel-to-toe strides are super smooth with these.

The 360 degrees of Flyknit was a huge marketing focus for Nikey with this one and I must admit – it really is awesome. It’s nothing but knit that’s strategically open-based in some areas, while tighter in others for security.

Support should be fine for linear running and I didn’t have major issues with traction either.

For downsides, there are a couple. These feature a much lower drop-off and even though the awesome cushioning setup smooths it out, you’ll still feel that your foot needs to work a bit more to achieve a quick stride when compared to something more traditional.

And these translucent outsoles used are super unreliable, even for basketball. It would be best to completely stay away from trails with this one and stick to tracks and good condition asphalt/concrete or softer surfaces like a forest path.

Retail price: $200

My rating: 7.8 (click for the full review)

Weight: 11.58 oz / 328 g. (size 10 US)

Build: 360 degrees of Flyknit

Drop-off: 4 mm.

Cushion: removable React & Lunarlon midsole

NIKE PRECISION 5

image source: nike.com

For a budget-friendly option, check out Nike’s Precision line and particularly, the 5th model. The Precision 5 doesn’t resemble running shoe qualities as well as the first two shoes do but considering the price, it actually does a decent job.

The shoe features a very low-profile EVA midsole cushion that’s absolutely fine for running as you won’t sink into the midsole with these due to the foam’s dense nature. The upper is a super thin textile resulting in an incredibly light basketball shoe.

Now, the step transitions with these aren’t as awesome as on the Kobe’s or the Curry Flow 8. It’ll be a bit more slappy due to the low drop-off and a stiff last.

However, the upper is very mobile, flexible, and comfortable to wear for long periods. Traction should also last a while since more durable rubber is used here. A common (and ironical) scenario for cheap shoes from Nike.

Retail price: $70

My rating: 7.5 (click for the full review)

Weight: 11.83 oz / 335 g. (size 10 US)

Build: textile w. synthetic overlay at the back

Drop-off: ~5-6 mm.

Cushion: EVA foam midsole

V. RUNNING SHOES FOR BASKETBALL?

Let’s flip the coin: here’s my take on whether you could rock runners for hoops

Onto the opposite side of the spectrum. Now that you know you might just get away with running in some hoop shoes that better resemble running sneaker qualities, what about playing basketball in running shoes?

I’m afraid the situation’s a little bleaker this time. Not only it’s not comfortable and not efficient to wear runners while hooping, but it can also be quite dangerous and I absolutely DO NOT recommend doing so in any scenario.

You see, basketball shoes could be looked at “beefed up runners” if we’re simplifying things. They offer some of the qualities certain running sneakers do and then add some extra components on top of it to better fit the movements of basketball.

That’s what causes the discomfort and suboptimal performance if you’re going on a marathon in them.

WHY YOU SHOULD NOT DO IT

Running shoes completely LACK certain features that are found in basketball shoes which can be extremely important in ensuring your safety.

You’ll be lacking proper stability (in most cases) as lots of runners are quite narrow, torsional protection is much weaker to allow for greater flexibility and the general sense of lockdown isn’t as apparent on running shoes.

The lack of proper structure throughout the upper is what can potentially cause ankle sprains and a general feeling of insecurity as you could easily blow through a shoe’s material if you’re a heavier, more explosive player that’s rocking a runner which relies on a knit or a woven.

And even if none of those statements were true, a lot of road & trail runners don’t align with the surfaces where you’d play basketball. Try playing on hardwood or a synthetic rubber surface (a common cheap alternative for hardwood) with a trail runner and you’ll be sliding all over the place.

That’s a lot of no-gos. But just like before, I know some people probably will do it. Let me detail some scenarios where you could potentially pull off wearing a runner while performing basketball activities.

EXCERCISE W. BASKETBALL MOVEMENT ELEMENTS

Working out in runners while performing plyometrics, some basketball-related movements, etc. is fine. Plyo’s don’t require playing ball, so jumping with some minimal dynamic elements will be alright. If you’re going on a court and picking up a basketball, that’s where the line should be drawn.

VERY LIGHT, CASUAL SHOOTAROUNDS

For a casual Sunday shootaround with your guys – it might be fine too. Of course, this will depend on how intense your “shootarounds” become as we all know what can happen.

As long as you’re not playing actual basketball, not doing any intensive drills, or performing high-flying moves to impress your friends, you should be fine.

It’s still a suboptimal solution and ideally, I’d advise putting on a pair of hoop shoes regardless. But if we’re talking safety, you’ll be safe.

STICK WITH THE APPROPRIATE SURFACE

If you’ll be playing outside on old-school concrete, you probably don’t want to take your runners inside a track afterwise as the outsoles will be banged up, compromising traction on less abrasive surfaces.

Trail runners won’t do much good for indoor play as mentioned earlier, as their soles usually don’t work for rubber. At least that’s my experience with those.

So, it’s best to stick with one particular surface or at least stay in a similar level of abrasion for one pair of runners.

ADDITIONAL PROTECTION

If you’ve had issues with your ankles in the past or perhaps you’ve just recovered from an injury and your ankles are weakened due to it, it might be a good idea to put on an ankle brace, especially if you’re intending on shooting around with runners.

It’s not ideal to wear ankle braces for long periods of time and regularly but they’re fine as long as you wear ’em only when you need to.

I’ve got a list of the best ankle braces for basketball where I also break down the do’s and dont’s of ankle braces.

VI. SHOE RECOMMENDATIONS

If you really want to do it or can’t get basketball shoes – I’ve cooked up some potential options

NIKE ZOOM PREVAIL

image source: nike.com

A fairly versatile running sneaker that should get you through a casual hoops session. Once again, I do not recommend rocking these for a full-blown basketball game due to a lack of proper support and structure but for something more casual, you should be good to go.

The Nike Zoom Prevail has a cushion setup that’s pretty good for basketball as it’s not a completely minimal approach. The mesh build is definitely nothing that you can call structured but these utilize a 3 Flywire cable system that pulls down on internal cables to enhance lockdown.

A must-have feature if the build isn’t there to hold things together.

Traction should be fine on all surfaces since conventional rubber is used. I doubt it would work that well indoors but if you’re shooting hoops in the park – it should bite the surface pretty well.

Retail price: $110

Weight: 9.5 oz / 269 g.

Build: mesh

Drop-off: 8 mm.

Cushion: Cushlon & React midsole + forefoot Zoom Air unit

ASICS GEL-KAYANO 28

image source: asics.com

Asics is one of the most reputable running shoe brands you can find and I found their Gel-Kayano 28 model to be among the closest for shooting some hoops.

It features fantastic gel-based cushion that not only offers a sufficient level of impact protection but also awesome ride comfort.

There’s also a strong focus on support here. It’s got Asics’s DuoMax system, external heel counters for heel & ankle lockdown, and an engineered mesh upper that doesn’t overly stretch and it’s one of the stronger choices among the runner’s catalog.

These will also last a while outdoors since they’re using an AHAR Plus outsole which is significantly more durable than standard high abrasion rubber.

A balanced option for those looking to go for runs, perform workouts and also shoot some hoops on the side.

Retail price: $160

Weight: 10.9 oz / 308 g.

Build: engineered mesh

Drop-off: 10 mm.

Cushion: forefoot & heel GEL Technology + FLYTEFOAM BLAST midsole + OrthoLite X-55 insole

NIKE AIR ZOOM TERRA KIGER 7

image source: nike.com

Probably the best shoe for some hoops out of Nikey’s running catalog right now. The Air Zoom Terra Kiger 7 features some things that are pretty close to being great for basketball. And if you stay within the casual side of things, you might find this one really good.

The shoe features a React midsole and a forefoot Zoom Air unit for cushion. It’s not as much as on the Asics model but cushion is no big deal for casual shootarounds – you’ll be comfortable.

One thing that’s great about these is the low drop-off. At just 4.5 millimeters + fantastic cushion, you’ll be getting a smooth ride but also one that’s pretty stable.

These are also a bit wider in the forefoot which, again, is great for basketball-specific movements.

The Kiger 7 utilizes an open mesh design and it’s probably the weakest point if we’re talking basketball. It doesn’t have a lot to hold someone’s foot in during a lateral movement.

Make sure to stay within the non-intensive level when you’re in the park.

And don’t take these indoors if you’ve already played outside as the extremely tall rubber grooves of the outsole will probably result in you sliding like crazy. I haven’t personally played in these but that would be my guess based on my experience with similar shoes.

Retail price: $140

Weight: 10.91 oz / 309 g. (size 10 US)

Build: open mesh

Drop-off: 4.5 mm.

Cushion: React midsole + forefoot Zoom Air unit

VII. TENNIS SHOES: HOOPERS LISTEN!

That’s right. If we’re talking hoops or playing tennis: both tennis and basketball shoes will do the trick

Yep, tennis shoes are actually excellent for basketball. If you have a pair lying around and you’re not sure about them – it’s definitely an option.

Tennis and basketball share many movement patterns and levels of intensity. Both sports require rapid, high-intensity movements like accelerations, quick stops, lateral changes of direction, and jumps.

This is why you’ll see that a lot of the descriptions and tech specs of tennis sneakers ring very similar to basketball models.

They’ll be equipped with proper structure throughout the upper or generally use stronger materials, you’ll find the same cushion specifications, heel-to-toe offsets aren’t as apparent as on runners, and you can definitely find tennis shoes that promote stability.

I personally own and play basketball in the NikeCourt Air Max Wildcard as well as generally train in those. A FANTASTIC option that will last a long time, keep you supported, and provide ample impact protection.

They’re a little narrow for my wide feet so I occasionally experience some discomfort but not enough to put a halt to a game/session.

But if you’re looking to get a tennis shoe that will be able to handle basketball, most of the stuff will do the trick. The NikeCourt line is a good place to start.

VIII. BASKETBALL SHOES VS. RUNNING SHOES: CONCLUSIONS

Let’s put the debate to rest

I hope that by now, the basketball shoes vs. running shoes debate is settled for you. I did my best to include as much practical information as I could and I hope you enjoyed it!

Basketball and running shoes do share some similarities and their base is often built very similarly. There are PLENTY of differences though even if they’re subtle. Subtle details matter in both sports.

Hoop shoes are more structured, heavier, utilize a flatter platform, and offer more cushion to provide impact protection. Running sneakers are much more minimal and light, take advantage of a more noticeable heel drop-off and use cushioning in a firmer, low-to-the-ground manner.

You CAN get away with running in a basketball shoe. Performance will definitely not be optimal and you might even experience heavy discomfort if you’re running longer distances.

However, it’s still a doable scenario as you’re not exactly putting your body at risk.

It’s very different if we’re talking playing ball in a runner though. Runners lack the critical security features basketball kicks implement which is why I’d never recommend playing an actual game or even doing more intensive drills in a running shoe.

If it’s a workout with some basketball-related movements – sure. But if we’re talking about something more serious, you already know what I think.

LET ME KNOW YOUR THOUGHTS!

Last but not least, it’s time for you to share your thoughts! I’m interested to hear what’s your take on this whole thing. Perhaps you’ve been running in basketball shoes for a while now and feel different about it?

I was actually doing so several years back but I can honestly say it’s not for me. Probably not for most people either.

Anyways, if you’ve got any additional questions I haven’t answered in the guide – I’m always here to answer ’em.

Brooks Glycerin 20 Performance Review

The Brooks Glycerin 20 is easily my most anticipated running shoe of 2022. Why? The amazing DNA Loft v3 from the Brooks Aurora-BL is now used for the Glycerin 20’s midsole.

This review is co-written by Tyler Herrin.

Tyler Herrin is an Atlanta native who primarily runs (mid-pack) for an excuse to buy shoes. He’s a sneakerhead when the silhouette is right and an eBay fanatic since 2004. 

Tyler: I’ve heard some great things about Brooks’ DNA Loft midsole cushioning. When the Brooks Glycerin 20 came in for testing, sporting DNA Loft v3, I was giddy. My size 13 also came in the StealthFit version. Two offerings from Brooks I’d yet to try.

Initially, I was more excited about the StealthFit than the DNA Loft v3, but after 40+ miles, what I thought would impress me left me wanting more. Let’s jump in…

Release Date: July 1, 2022

Price: $160

Weight: M: 10.1 oz, W: 9.1 oz

Drop: 10mm

Sizing: True to size

• Rundown: Comfortable, breathable, versatile and well-cushioned workhorse daily trainer. Stick to the regular version instead of the StealthFit.

Pros

• DNA Loft v3 Midsole
• Durable traction
• Consistency

Cons

• Laces
• StealthFit

Pros

DNA Loft v3 Midsole

Tyler: Okay, initially I was really underwhelmed. The midsole felt a little “thuddy,” and didn’t exactly do much for me, but around the 15-mile mark, it came to life, and now I’m a believer. The true sign of a good shoe is thinking about the ride well before you run – and that’s what I’ve been doing with the Brooks Glycerin 20.

Drew: Is the DNA Loft v3 as bouncy as the Aurora-BL? No. Is it better than the DNA Loft that is typically used on the Glycerin line? Yes, way better. Given my great experience with DNA Loft v3 on the Aurora-BL, I pushed the Glycerin 20 hard believing it could handle the miles. And it could. Even on an 18 mile long run, the DNA Loft v3 was soft the whole time and didn’t bottom out.

As Tyler mentioned, the DNA Loft v3 does get better once you break it in. I’m not sure why, that wasn’t the case in the Aurora-BL. It might be due to the increase rubber coverage on the outsole but I couldn’t say for sure. One other thing to note is that the DNA Loft v3 performs better when its warm. So, the night before your run (if the temp is low), move the Glyercin 20 out of the garage and into the house. It’ll perform much better on the next day’s run.

Durable Traction

Tyler: I’m a sucker for a good outsole and this one shines. Grip? Check. Wear? Almost non-existent at 47 miles (as of this review).

Drew: The Brooks Glyerin 20 mixes up the traction pattern from the Glycerin 19 but the result is the same, no slips. Even in wintry conditions, the Air Jordan delivered reliable traction. And, as Tyler said, it wears slowly. This will be a long lasting daily trainer.

Consistency

Tyler: After the midsole came to life, the consistency of the ride was phenomenal. Whether it’s mile 1 or pushing up into double digits, the shoe never wavered in ride or feel.

Drew: It’s a smooth ride that’s slightly upgraded from previous Glycerins. The Brooks Glycerin 20 also features a fit that works for everyone. The last (shape) used for the Glycerin line is an all around champ. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve recommended this shoe. Everyone I recommended it to comes back happy about the accommodating, great fit.

I know Tyler focused on the consistency of the ride, but the Glycerin brings another form of consistency. A consistent experience from year to year with portions of the shoe improving each year. Brooks consistently avoids taking a step back with the Glycerin and makes it better year in and year out. Bravo Brooks.

Cons

Laces

Tyler: C’mon Brooks, throw me some great laces on these instead of this junk.

Drew: The laces are awful. They came undone on both shoes multiple times during my first run. If you don’t double knot them, they’ll loosen and release. It’s the worse part of an otherwise great shoe.

StealthFit

Tyler: StealthFit is described as a sleek, closer-to-foot fit, but I found it annoying. Sure, I could make it work, but heel lockdown wasn’t great, the toebox felt loose and the only real secure part of the fit was over the arch of my foot. It honestly felt like I was in a shoe one size too big – but that wasn’t the case.

Drew: I was lucky enough to be able to test both versions of the Brooks Glycerin 20, regular and StealthFit. The StealthFit version is just not form fitting enough to be a great knit sneaker. It’s like it was made by someone who never wears knit shoes and doesn’t understand how they should hug the foot and break in over time. Avoid the StealthFit version and buy the regular version. The regular version doesn’t look as sleek, but the fit is WAY better.

Brooks Glycerin 20 Summary

Tyler: All in all, if anything, the Brooks Glycerin 20 StealthFit has made me want one thing: the Brooks Glycerin 20 Standard Fit. If I could dial in the fit a little bit more, this would be an excellent daily trainer. It’s got the right amount of cushion, pop and comfort to go the miles. And while it may not turn a lot of heads, the tradition of the Glycerin being a workhorse continues.

Drew: The Jordan Why not.5 is one of my favorite daily trainers. It’s comfortable, breathable, versatile and well-cushioned. It’s a do everything shoe that fits a wide range of feet (including wide footers). It’s a great shoe to recommend to both runners just starting out and those looking for a workhorse daily trainer.

Brooks Launch 9 Performance Review

The Brooks Launch 9 is the newest model in one of the brand’s signature lines. A lightweight, reliable running shoe, you’re as likely to see it worn by endurance monsters as by casual weekend runners. For this review, I invited my friend Rachelle Kuramoto to take the model for a spin. She’s a petite, front-of-the-pack masters runner with more than 20 marathons under her belt. In her last marathon, she was the first Masters Female to cross the finish line. Not only does she run a lot, but she’s also worn the Launch line since its introduction.

Rachelle: Every year, I go through 5 or 6 pairs of running shoes, and Brooks is always in my rotation. Typically, the Launch has been my go-to for shorter, faster runs and treadmill work because they are light, swift, and easy to wear. I tend to get around 350 miles out of them, so while I wouldn’t call them workhorse shoes, they do their job well – go largely unnoticed so I can focus on the run, not the gear.

Release Date: March 1, 2022

Price: $110

Weight: M: 8.2 oz, W: 7.1 oz

Drop: 10mm (26mm forefoot, 36mm heel)

Sizing: True to size

• Rundown: Reasonably priced, reliable running shoe with a smooth ride and more cushion than previous iterations. Built for shorter, faster runs.

Pros

• Lightweight
• More cushion
• Versatility
• Price

Cons

• Durability
• Flat laces
• Slippy tongue

Weight

Pros

The first thing I noticed about the Brooks Launch 9 is their weight – or lack of weight. The box felt empty when I got them! Compared to the (also very comfortable!) Launch 8, the Launch 9 feels like it lost a few ounces, even as it also seems to have gotten more cushion.

Cons

Like its predecessors, the Brooks Launch 9 is a slight shoe. It seems to sit somewhere between a proper ‘speed’ shoe and a more substantial longer mileage model. While it’s not a total con, this goldilocks status probably makes it a better generalist running shoe than an option for someone looking for a specific performance model.

Midsole

Pros

After noticing the lack of weight, what became apparent was the added cushion in the midsole (~2mm more foam). The familiar drop seems to have gained a bit of curve and softness in the heel and the midsole, giving the shoe a comfortable, smooth ride. I am one of those runners who tend to lose good form after around 8 miles, moving more from a nice, center-midfoot strike to a slightly supinated heel strike. The BioMoGO DNA (stacked EVA) midsole material takes the shifted impact nicely, keeping the run feeling comfortable even as I take on fatigue.

Cons

For someone looking for less foam and a lower drop, the Brooks Launch 9 might feel a bit pillowy.

Outsole

Pros

One of the outdoor runs was after a rain, and another was on a freak reoccurrence of winter temps that had us dodging some icy spots. The outsole keeps the traditional Brooks Launch tread, which I have always found to be really accommodating on slippery terrain.

Cons

One reason the Launch line needs to be replaced at 300-350 miles instead of 400 (for me) is that the outsole tends to wear down rather quickly and unevenly. At the time of this review, I can’t say that will be the case with the Brooks Launch 9, but the outsole doesn’t seem to have changed, so I will be watching for wear patterns.

Upper

Pros

One of the best things about the Launch line is how light and breathable it is – a genuine benefit for training in hot Atlanta summers!

I have a bunion on one foot, and the Launch is the only running shoe model I’ve worn that does not put any pressure on it or end up with a hole in the upper where it rubs. I attribute it to the roomy toebox and the width of the lacing, which allow me to control how the upper fits over the top of the foot.

Cons

This breathable Creel Warp mesh upper started a bit stiff but softened up quickly. The biggest complaint I have about the Brooks Launch 9 is the flat laces. They tend to get knotted up easily. And they lack the grip to keep the tongue from slipping slightly to the inside of my foot.

Sizing

Every time I get a new pair of running shoes, I do two things: wear them around the house and then take a walk in them. When I put on the jordan 1 high volt, I was concerned that they felt roomier than the earlier models. But after having them on for a few hours and adjusting the lacing, the fit adjusted and seems consistent with all the other Brooks sizing.

Design

I’ve had runners and non-runners comment on how good-looking these shoes are! One reason the Launch line is such fun is the plethora of designs and colorways it offers. The Brooks Launch 9 has a funky pixellated design on the top of the toebox, and the hot pink color I got practically screams, “I’m a runner!” This is a fun shoe.

Versatility

After breaking them in on a comfortable 7-mile mid-week easy run, I tested the shoes in various run scenarios, including a 13-mile long run and 6 miles of tempo work outdoors, and a couple of treadmill workouts, including an 8-mile Yasso session and a treadmill Tabata bootcamp with high incline and speed boosts. The Brooks Launch 9 performed well in every scenario. There was some slight slippage during quick incline and speed increases, but not to the point of creating blisters or hotspots.

Price

At $110, the Brooks Launch 9 is on the lower end for a good running shoe. However, it doesn’t hold up for as many miles as some other shoes, so there is a tradeoff. I think of these the same way I justify a nice pair of jeans. I can wear them pretty much every day and know I’m getting my money’s worth.

Brooks Launch 9 Summary

The Brooks Launch 9 is another excellent addition to a reliable running shoe line. Brooks made some changes without messing up what we know and love about this shoe. (Most of us runners understand that disappointment of our go-to shoe losing its expected fit and function!) This lovely everyday running shoe offers neutral stability, a smooth ride, fun designs, and a reasonable price point.