What Is An EP Version For Basketball Shoes?

Are you an avid basketball player or sneakerhead looking to step up your game with the latest kicks? Then you may have come across the term “EP version” in your search for the perfect basketball shoe.

What Is An EP Version For Basketball Shoes? What does EP stand for, and how does it differ from other shoe versions? Some of the more popular EP version shoes include the KD15EP and the Kyrie Infinity EP, both of which are manufactured by Nike. 

But pictures and features lists alone don’t make it any easier to determine what EP shoes are and that what they’re all about. Let’s take a closer look at EP versions for basketball shoes and what they can offer your game.

What Are EP Basketball Shoes?

EP basketball shoes are a specialized version of basketball shoes designed to provide enhanced support, durability, and traction for players on the court. Also known as “Engineered Performance” shoes, they are typically made with sturdier materials and heavier cushioning to withstand the rigors of intensive gameplay.

EP shoes often feature unique designs and colorways that appeal to players looking for style as well as performance. Whether you’re a professional athlete or a recreational player, EP basketball shoes can give you the edge you need to take your game to the next level.

How Do You Know If a Shoe Is Ep?

Knowing if a basketball shoe is an EP version can be tricky, as not all shoe brands use the same terminology to describe their specialized versions. However, there are a few indicators that can help you identify if a shoe is an EP version.

Firstly, many shoe brands will use the term “EP” in the shoe’s name or product description. For example, Nike’s EP basketball shoes are labeled as such on their website and in stores.

Another way to identify an EP basketball shoe is to look for specific design features that are commonly associated with EP versions. These may include thicker soles, sturdier materials, and additional cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas.

Additionally, some brands may use different terminology to describe their specialized versions of basketball shoes. For example, Under Armour uses the term “HOVR” to describe their shoes’ cushioning technology, while Adidas uses the term “Boost.”

What is the Difference Between EP and Non EP Basketball Shoes?

The main difference between EP (Engineered Performance) basketball shoes and non-EP basketball shoes is the level of support, durability, and traction they provide on the court. 

EP basketball shoes are designed to withstand the rigors of intensive gameplay, with sturdier materials and heavier cushioning to protect the feet and joints of the player. They often have thicker soles, enhanced traction patterns, and additional cushioning in the heel and forefoot areas to provide better shock absorption and reduce the risk of injury.

Non-EP basketball shoes, on the other hand, are designed for everyday wear and casual basketball games. They may be made with lighter materials and less cushioning, which can result in a less durable shoe that may not provide the necessary support and traction for more intense play.

Take note that not all basketball shoes labeled as EP will have the same level of support, durability, and traction. Always research a shoe’s features and read product reviews to ensure it’s the right basketball shoe for your needs.

What is Kyrie Infinity EP? 

Kyrie Infinity EP is a specialized version of the Kyrie Infinity basketball shoe designed for enhanced performance on the court. It is part of Nike’s EP (Engineered Performance) line of basketball shoes.

The Kyrie Infinity EP features a mesh upper for breathability and a lightweight feel, with Flywire cables for added support and a secure fit. The shoe also has a full-length foam midsole and Zoom Air cushioning in the forefoot for enhanced comfort and responsiveness during play.

The outsole of the Kyrie Infinity EP is made with a herringbone traction pattern for improved grip on the court, with a curved outsole that allows for quick cuts and seamless transitions.

What is the Difference Between Kyrie and Kyrie EP?

Kyrie and Kyrie EP are both basketball shoe lines designed by Nike, with Kyrie being the standard line and Kyrie EP (Engineered Performance) being the specialized version of the Kyrie line designed for enhanced performance on the court.

The main difference between Kyrie and Kyrie EP is the level of support, durability, and traction they provide. 

Kyrie EP basketball shoes are designed for more rigorous gameplay. This is apparent in the sturdier materials and heavier cushioning used, which provide more protection for the feet and joints.

Kyrie EPs also have thicker soles, more defined traction patterns, and added heel and forefoot cushioning.

Kyrie basketball shoes are better suited for everyday wear and casual games. The lighter materials and reduced cushioning results in a generally less durable shoe. Subsequently, they may not provide adequate support and traction for intensive gameplay.

Who Makes the Best EP Shoes?

Several reputable brands make high-quality EP (Engineered Performance) basketball shoes, including Nike, Adidas, Under Armour, and Puma.

• Nike is known for its Kyrie EP and KD EP basketball shoes, which offer excellent support, traction, and durability for intense gameplay.

• Adidas’ Harden Vol. 4 and Dame 6 EP basketball shoes are also highly regarded for their responsive cushioning and sturdy construction.

• Under Armour’s Curry 7 EP and HOVR Havoc EP basketball shoes are designed for agility and speed, with excellent traction and support.

• Puma’s Clyde Hardwood EP basketball shoes are known for their unique style and performance features, including a responsive cushioning system and high-traction outsole.

Ultimately, what makes the best EP basketball shoes for an individual depends on their specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as playing style, foot shape, and budget.

As always, it’s best to try on and test out different shoes before purchasing. This helps ensure that the choice provides the necessary support, cushioning, and traction for optimal playing performance.

Conclusion 

EP basketball shoes have proven to be a popular choice among basketball players because of their exceptional performance on the court. Their advanced technologies and features enhance comfort, support, and traction, allowing players to maximize their potential.

With their innovative designs and durable materials, EP basketball shoes offer excellent stability and responsiveness. Consequently, they help athletes make quick cuts, accelerate, and jump with confidence.

Whether you’re a professional player or an avid enthusiast, EP basketball shoes are a reliable choice for enhancing your game and providing a competitive edge.

FAQ 

1. What Does EP Mean in Shoe Size? 

In terms of shoe size, “EP” does not have a specific meaning. “EP” stands for “Engineered Performance,” which refers to a specialized version of basketball shoes designed for enhanced support, durability, and traction.
Shoe sizes are typically denoted by a combination of numbers and letters that indicate the shoe’s length, width, and sometimes even the arch support. For example, a men’s shoe size 9.5 might be denoted as “M 9.5” or “9.5 D.”

2. Are EP Shoes Wider Than Regular Shoes? 

EP (Engineered Performance) basketball shoes are not necessarily wider than non-EP basketball shoes. The width of the shoe is typically determined by the last, which is the mold used to construct the shoe. The last can be designed to accommodate different foot shapes and sizes, including narrow, regular, and wide.
Some EP basketball shoes may be designed to be wider than non-EP shoes, but this is not a universal characteristic of EP shoes. Rather, the width of the shoe is typically determined by the specific model and brand, rather than whether it is an EP or non-EP shoe.

3. Who should wear EP basketball shoes?

EP basketball shoes are recommended for players who engage in frequent and intense gameplay. This includes competitive players or those who play on a regular basis.
EP shoes provide enhanced support, traction, and durability compared to regular basketball shoes. This could help prevent injuries and improve performance on the court. However, they may not be necessary for casual players or those who play infrequently.

4. Are all basketball shoe models available in EP versions?

Not all basketball shoe models are available in EP versions. EP shoes are typically produced for specific high-end models and player signature lines from major brands such as Nike, Adidas, and Under Armour.

5. Are EP basketball shoes more expensive than regular basketball shoes?

EP basketball shoes are generally more expensive than regular basketball shoes. This is mainly due to their specialized design and enhanced features.
The sturdier materials, thicker soles, and additional cushioning used in EP shoe construction often results in a higher production cost. This is usually reflected in the retail price.

Do NBA Players Wear Ankle Braces? Pros And Cons Of Ankle Braces

You may have heard about many players getting injured rolling their feet and wondered why these players don’t use braces.

A great number of NBA players go for ankle taping over ankle braces because they believe ankle braces limit their movement.

Though ankle braces are a great support option, it has drawbacks.

In this article, you will learn about the following:

• Do NBA players wear ankle braces?
• Pros and cons of wearing ankle braces.
• How to find suitable ankle braces that fit well.

Do NBA players wear ankle braces?

Ankle braces are the popular choice for support among NBA players. But ankle braces can be bulky and uncomfortable despite offering excellent support.

These braces can also reduce some players’ range of motion, impacting their performance on the court. For this reason, some players might not use it to avoid discomfort.

Should Basketball Players Wear Ankle Braces

Preventive bracing for ankle sprains is approved, and the highest level of evidence-based medicine supports it.

Preventive ankle bracing has repeatedly shown a protective benefit for the athlete, with no long-term side effects when used regularly.

Should athletes, however, wear ankle braces?

Many consider Timothy McGuine’s 2011 study the essential one demonstrating that ankle bracing reduces the risk of ankle sprains.

McGuine of the University of Wisconsin published the findings of his study on the use of lace-up ankle braces in high school basketball, The Effect of Lace-up Ankle Braces on Injury Rates in High School Basketball Players. He studied approximately 1,400 student-athletes to see if ankle braces could help them stay in shape on the court.

Here’s what he found:

• Three times as many athletes sprained their ankles while playing without ankle braces as while wearing them. This was true for girls and boys, varsity and JV, first-year students, and seniors.
• Athletes who wore ankle braces had 68% fewer first-time ankle injuries.

Bruce Lee are the most common injury in sports, accounting for roughly 25% of all injuries reported for any part of the body. Basketball has the highest incidence of ankle sprains among sports, followed by volleyball and soccer. These three sports have received the greatest attention in preventive ankle bracing studies.

According to the studies, individuals in an external ankle support group had a significantly lower number of ankle sprains.

This reduction was greater in those who had previously experienced ankle sprains. Braces were more effective than tape in terms of preventing ankle sprains.

This is extremely convincing! Based on these results, it would be best to speak with your athletic trainer or coach to find the best lace-up ankle brace type for you and ensure it fits appropriately.

How to Choose the Best Ankle Brace for Your Injury

An ankle brace is an essential protection whether you want to prevent an ankle injury, have chronic ankle pain, or are recovering from an ankle injury.

Ankle braces can help with various ailments and injuries, such as arthritis, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, sprains, ankle pain, and inflammation.

Here are some suggestions for selecting the best ankle brace:

SELECTING THE MOST COMFORTABLE ANKLE BRACE

Ankle braces are very supportive, but if the brace is not fitted properly or is made of the wrong material, it may be uncomfortable.

Consider the following to ensure that your ankle brace is as comfortable as possible:

• Proper fit: Ankle braces usually come in sizes based on your shoe size or ankle circumference, so consult the sizing chart to ensure the best fit and support.
• Neoprene vs. Fabric: Neoprene is a flexible material that allows for a close fit to the body while providing support and heat insulation for pain relief.

Conversely, Neoprene does not breathe well and may be too hot to wear all day. Fabric and knit materials typically breathe better, keeping your feet cool without providing the therapeutic heat of Neoprene.

Your needs will determine the best ankle brace, but numerous options are available for all use cases.

• Comfort: Make sure you get the right size and material for your ankle brace, and consider how breathable you want it to be.
• Frequency: You can wear your ankle brace briefly or all day, depending on your needs.
• Type of Ankle Brace: Sleeves, strap braces, and lace-up ankle braces all provide varying support, protection, and compression levels.
• Tightness: Take the time to adjust your ankle brace so it is not too loose or tight; this may require several adjustments, but getting a perfect fit is critical.

As you want the brace to work correctly with your footwear, we advise putting on braces along with the athletic shoes you’ll be wearing while using the brace.

Even though many won’t have a wide selection of braces, some physical therapists and doctors might, so it’s still worth asking for their recommendations.

Also, check with your health insurance: braces can be expensive, but some policies will cover them.

Returning to that sporting goods store aisle, thousands of braces are on the market today, and they are not all created equal. Try before you buy because picking one randomly won’t help you and might do more harm than good.

Pros  And Cons of Ankle Braces in Sport

Pros

• Simple to get your hands on, with a variety of brace options commonly available at local stores
• Reduce stress on injured structures to alleviate pain
•  Limit joint movement to allow for healing.
• It can provide additional support for a return to sport, which has higher physical demands on the body.

Cons

• Braces cannot take the place of a rehabilitation plan.
• Aesthetically unappealing
• Braces are not a substitute for muscle strength.

Wearing a brace for an extended period can lead to over-reliance on external support.

Incorrect muscle activation patterns, potential muscle atrophy, and a reduction in proprioception are other consequences that may result.

There are times when braces can be beneficial to athletes and times when they can cause additional issues.

Putting a brace on a sore or injured joint without the consultation of an athletic trainer or a healthcare professional is not a good idea.

Moreover, braces do not replace other services, such as a medical evaluation or physical therapy recommendations.

If you only get a brace and don’t deal with the underlying issue, the brace will give a false sense of security and might even result in more injury.

Also, you’re not getting to the heart of the matter because you’re not allowing an athlete to rehabilitate and recover fully from injury.

Takeaway

Ankle braces can help prevent injury and relieve pain in young athletes. Still, they should be used cautiously and only under the supervision of an expert who can properly assess the injury and make the best recommendation for the specific issue.

We hope this article helped you with Do NBA players wear ankle braces.

Adidas Ultra Boost Light Review 2023

Adidas Ultraboost light shoes are well cushioned, highly comfy, breathable, fit true to size, and durable. I think they are highly durable and offer excellent grip on the inner and outer courts. They are easy to maintain, and the fit and lock system keeps your feet in place and helps with lateral movements. The enhanced heel lockdown feature functions well and reduces stress on the heel. However, one thing I didn’t like about it is the high heel. High heels don’t offer smooth rides. Other than that, they are lightweight and don’t feel heavy on the feet.

Pros

• Highly cushioned
• Stylish, Cozy, and comfy
• Breathable
• Lightweight
• Enhanced heel lockdown
• Durable

Cons

• The heel-to-toe transition could be better

Detailed Adidas Ultra Boost Light Review

While testing Adidas Ultra Boost Light, I found it a great shoe and an excellent version of its predecessor, i.e., Ultra Boost 21. They are super light in weight and are easy on the feet. They are soft and springy, and well-cushioned.

I loved their overall look; they also offer a different type of comfy boost. The lace cage is impressive. It is softer than the previous version. While wearing these shoes, you feel that the lace cage protrudes when you bend; however, with ultra-boost light shoes, it doesn’t happen.

Another good thing about this new model is its upper material. It’s made of mesh, which offers maximum breathability in the toe box. Wearing it with or without socks, you’ll experience air touching your feet.

In addition, I like the snugness of the toebox area. The knit is flexible, but it’s not too loose, and it’s not too firm either. It also has a lesser carbon footprint, meaning the measure of CO2 gasses in manufacturing these shoes is less than previous versions.

Overall, this is the best running sneaker for the Adidas Ultra Boost line for running. However, the heel-toe transition is just good and not much better. Other than that, if you wear them for running on the treadmill, you’ll experience why they are the best.

What’s Exciting About Adidas Ultra Boost Light?

An exciting thing about these shoes is their modern and sleek design. Secondly, they are lightweight, offer support and comfort, and are true to size.

Another exciting thing about them is that their upper is made of recycled waste products. The waste materials are collected from the beaches and used in their upper, which contributes to the reduction of waste and lesser impact on the environment.

In addition, they have a heel lockdown feature that functions well and reduces stress on the heel. All-in-all, there’s nothing about these shoes you won’t like. These are the best.

10/10

Traction

When I got my hands on these shoes, my first target was to examine their traction. When I wore them, I could feel and understand why people were crazy about Adidas ultra boost light. Their traction is fantastic.

Since the shoe’s outsole is made from Continental rubber, it provides excellent grip on different terrains. The purpose of using Continental rubber in the shoe’s outer sole is that it can deliver maximum traction on both dry and wet surfaces for various athletic activities.

What I liked most about these shoes was the traction pattern. It boasts a pattern of deep grooves and ridges that cater to the shoe’s grip and offer flexibility. The benefit of such a pattern is it helps to prevent sliding or slipping on rough surfaces.

To sum up, the traction of the Adidas Ultra Boost Light is fantastic and supportive. You can run as long as you want without any hurdles. You can efficiently perform athletic activities in them as well.

Main Facts

• Traction Pattern: Deep grooves and ridges
• Outsole: Continental rubber
• Grip: Excellent
• Expert Review: Positive reviews from experts

What Other Experts Say?

“The tractions are good. Due to their firm grip and responsiveness, I didn’t slip or slide around. Also it is durable as well.”

The Sole Drop

9/10

Cushion

Another noticeable feature of the Adidas Ultra Boost Light shoes is the cushioning. You’ll fall in love with its cushioning as the shoes consist of tiny TPU pellets fused to produce a super responsive and well-cushioned midsole.

I experienced the exceptional comfort these shoes provide while testing them. Their Boost midsole feels easy on the feet and provides energy return, making Ulta Boost Light shoes perfect for various activities.

I was worried whether the cushioning would suit my foot shape; surprisingly, it did. Other than that, the Boost technology in cushioning plays a significant role in preventing you from getting injured and lets you run, jump, or work out for longer hours.

In my opinion, the cushioning of the Adidas Ultra Boost light shoes is superb. With it, you’ll get exceptional support and comfort for various activities. So, if you’re a runner or an athlete, Ultra Boost Light’s cushioning will never let you down.

Main Facts

• Quality: Maximum cushioning due to TPU pellets
• Boost Midsole: Easy on the feet
• Support: Excellent
• Expert Reviews: Positive reviews from experts

What Other Experts Say?

“The cushioning is nice and crazy. I love how they have set it up!”

The Sole Drop

9/10

Material

One of the best things I love about Adidas is their initiative to reduce waste material’s environmental impact. They use recycled beach waste products, and polyester in the upper of the shoes. Isn’t it great?

Additionally, the Adidas Ultra Boost Light shoes are made from highly-durable materials providing maximum comfort. The shoe’s upper is made from a lightweight knit material that goes easy on the feet.

When I wore the shoes for testing, I found their upper material to be flexible, offering comfort and durability. More so, the knit material is also easy to clean, making these shoes a great choice.

As far as the shoes’ outer sole is concerned, it’s made from continental rubber, which offers a strong grip on various terrains. I ran wearing these shoes to check whether the outer sole quality was good, and it turned out they provided excellent traction.

Based on my testing experience, the material of the Ultra Boost Light shoes is comfortable and durable.

Main Facts

• Upper material: 50% recycled ocean waste and 50% polyester
• Outsole: Continental Rubber
• Durability: Highly-durable
• Inner & outer terrain experience: Amazing
• Expert Reviews: Positive reviews from experts

What Other Experts Say?

The material of Adidas Ultra Boost Light is lighter than its previous version 21, and according to Adidas, this knit is the same as previous versions in terms of recycled material. 50% of the upper is made from parley ocean plastics and recycled polyester and feels the same as the previous versions.

Elliot Page

9/10

Support

As a frequent user of Adidas shoes, I can confidently say that after trying Adidas Ultra Boost, I fell in love with how they support your feet. They provide excellent support and make your feet feel comfy.

Firstly, the credit goes to their flexible upper, boasting a supportive heel counter. Inside the shoes, my feet were in the proper place; I could run effortlessly without sliding or slipping.

In addition, Boost technology in the midsole also plays a significant role in supporting your feet by reducing the stress on your joints during activities like jumping or running.

Moreover, Torsional support is also an added benefit as it helps with lateral movements.

Hence, I’m satisfied with the support these shoes offer and just in love with the way they keep your feet in place and don’t let you slide away.

Main Facts

• Torsion system: Excellent
• Boost midsole: Excellent
• Continental rubber outsole: Great
• Heel counter: Good
• Experts Reviews: Positive reviews from experts.

What Other Experts Say?

“It’s probably the best running sneakers. The Ultraboost light offers the maximum support and is the definition of a Max cushion system. This shoe is so filled to the brim and so thick it’s crazy how soft it is underfoot.”

Seth Flower

9/10

Fit & Lock

The two standout features of Adidas Ultra Light Boost are the fit and lock. They offer a supportive fit due to their lace-up system. When I wore the shoes and laced them up, I felt my feet fit properly and didn’t face any slippage during the run.

Then comes the heel counter that helps lock feet in place during activity. It provides maximum support and safety during running or jumping. Overall, I’m happy with its fit and lock system. It’s the best.

Main Facts

• Fit: Secure and Excellent
• Lock: Amazing
• Heel counter: Good
• Primeknit Upper: Excellent
• Sock-like Design: Excellent
• Expert Reviews: positive reviews from experts

What Other Experts Say?

“The weight, midsole, lockdown, and fit of the shoe are good.”

Seth James DeMoor

9/10

Outdoor & Durability

The Adidas Ultra Boost Light has all the features that cater to a user’s comfort and make them highly durable, offering protection for outdoor use. The upper of the shoes is flexible enough to let you run comfortably.

The traction, support, cushioning, fit, and lock are also good. Based on my experience, I went some extra miles on the road, and to my surprise, the shoes didn’t suffer any wear and tear and remained undamaged.

Thus, they are highly durable, easy to clean, and best for indoor and outdoor use. In my opinion, they are awesome!

Main Facts

• Durability: Amazing
• Traction: Excellent
• Easy to Clean: Yes
• Grip: Excellent
• Expert Reviews: Positive Reviews from experts

What Other Experts Say?

“It’ll be a great bet if you’re looking for a daily trainer that’s comfortable and durable, and it’s going to get you a lot of miles. It’s going to suit a neutral runner the most.”

Running Shoe Geek

9/10

Comfort

The Ultra Boost Light is a good shoe that comforts the wearer. However, I didn’t like its high heel as such because I think not everyone is a fan of high heel shoes.

Also, the comfort level can go down due to high heels. Other than that, I love everything else about these shoes.

Main Facts

• Cushioning: Excellent
• Traction: Amazing
• Fit & Lock: Great
• Support: Great
• Heel: Not so good
• Expert Reviews: Good reviews from experts

What Other Experts Say?

“The shoe’s weight, midsole, lockdown, fit, and durability are good, but the comfort level goes down due to the high heel. However, Ultraboost light isn’t a bad one.“

Nike Ja 1 Review 2023

The Nike Ja 1 will be an excellent basketball shoe for on-court performance.

However, if you’re looking for something crazy like a full-length in straw Wing or super soft as far as the foam goes, the Ja 1 is not the best

But if you want something in the middle that does everything well, this is a great option. You can move right with good traction, sturdy cushioning, and suitable materials.

Pros

• Responsive Phylon
• Excellent Traction
• Performs well outdoors.
• Good for ankle support
• Great cushioning setup

Cons

• Fit may be too tight
• Material quality is okay

Detailed Nike Ja 1 Review

Nike Ja 1 is a pretty light shoe, which feels light in hand and on foot. The shoe feels minimal but also very supportive. You feel really quick when you’re playing it just because the traction is top-tier.

As indicated by our tests, the cushion is adequate, with great support. However, you must be careful about the size because it’s snug in the toe box.

The cushion is a lightweight phylon midsole that feels firm. Then there’s a Zoom unit in the forefoot, and the insole is not ortho-lite.

As far as pricing goes, there is good news and this is where it gets good. The shoe retails for hundred and ten dollars– a very low budget price for a first signature shoe.

In the insole, It’s just an open-celled foam, but it’s fully removable. Just make sure that you remove it before you play on them because otherwise, this glue will stick to the fabric.

From a profile perspective, they are good-looking shoes like a Nike SB. For the fit, they are snug, so if you are a wide footer, you should go up a size.

What’s Exciting About Nike Kyrie Infinity?

The exciting part about Nike Ja 1 is that it has a super cool extended TPU switch. It provides a unique way to carry your kicks into the gym along with messaging across the shoe inspired by his family and work ethic.

The handwritten repeating graphic speaks to Morant’s mindset to approach every day with a grind mentality.

Then there’s their signature logo and jersey number, sketched in his handwriting.

Additionally, the base of the lace is internal for a tighter fit around the forefoot, whereas the top laces are external for a more customizable fit, especially if you wear a brace because it’ll pop that thing in

For aesthetics, the Ja 1 one looks fantastic with an incredible colorway. Some colorways we’ve seen on Nike basketball signature shoes could be better. These, on the other hand, are good colorways, especially on feet.

These will be one of the best Signature shoes from Nike basketball in a very long time because low-top regular shoes look like casual shoes like a Nike SB or an Air Force One.

This colorway is going to do numbers, especially with the inverted colors and the price point at 110.

Main Facts

• Colors: Excellent
• Material: Good
• Design & Style: Eye-catchy

 

Traction

Nike Ja 1 has a solid rubber outsole with a very aggressive herringbone traction pattern to enable the cuts and movements essential to Morant’s playstyle.

Drawing from our experience, it’s one of the best tractions, so you don’t have to break it in at all– It is pretty good right out of the box.

Main Facts

• Pattern: Herringbone
• Grip: Excellent
• Use: Good for inner and outer court use
• Maintenance: easy to clean

 

Heel-to-toe Transition

Based on our first hand experience, the heel to toe transition is pretty smooth. It is caged a little bit here in the back of the heel.

The rubber outsole does come with the cage in the middle, but we still have an excellent little compression in the heel.

Then we have an excellent curved shape and a good amount of forefoot flex in the forefoot. So it’s super flexible. It has a nice little spring back, nothing crazy, however.

Main Facts

• Flexibility: Amazing
• Outer sole: Smooth
• Torsion support: Excellent
• Heel Compression: Excellent

 

Cushion

We have a very hard internal TPU heel counter in the heel, and in the Midfield, we have a pretty thick plastic swoosh that goes all the way around into the heel and onto the other side.

So lateral containment is good. Even if you’re a bigger guy and doing super crazy shifty lateral movements, you will be good to go.

Also, the Ja 1 has a lot of stability. Impact protection, especially in the heel, is adequate, and then here in the forefoot, we have a nice top-loaded Zoom unit.

After putting it to test, we found the shoe has an overall responsive cushion, with bounce and adequate impact protection. Also, the cord field is quite good.

Main Facts

• Comfort: Great
• Softness: Great
• Material:  Good

 

Material

With Nike Ja 1, we have a ballistic mesh material, and also we have some leather materials as well in the toe.

The materials on the upper have a combination of synthetic textile leathers and some TPU reinforcements, whereas the lightweight, breathable materials on the upper help keep your feet cool.

We have a synthetic leather material on the strap that feels like it could be cheaper.

So in the forefoot, it’s pretty damn thin and feels very minimal. It feels great on foot, but it’s super supportive, and this material has zero stretch. So this overall upper felt great on foot.

Then in the midfoot, it stays thin as well and very, very minimal but also super supportive. On the lateral and medial sides, the synthetic leather overlays and adds a little bit of support.

For the tongue, it’s actually pretty nicely padded and has a good amount of padding.

It feels nice and cozy on top of your foot and also in the ankle area right, especially on the sides of the shoe right on the lateral and medial side.

Here there’s a good amount of padding, which feels very, very nice and cozy.

Then we have the toe guard for extra support and durability, especially if you do toe drags.

The material quality, especially for 110 bucks, isn’t bad at all– nothing feels extremely cheap.

Main Facts

• Upper material: Excellent
• Tongue: Excellent
• Ankle Support: Good
• Forefoot Flexibility: Good

 

Support/ Fit & Lockdown

If you go true to size right, it fits really, really well and has an extremely snug fit. But after trying out this product, it feels super fit in the toe box

So for the majority of people, we suggest going up half a size. If you have a skinny foot and you want an extremely snug fit, then go through the size.

But if you have a wide foot or you want a really roomy fit, then probably go up a full size.

For the support and lockdown also, this shoe is extremely supportive, especially of how lightweight the shoe is.

There is the foam coming up a little bit, acting as a sidewall, and also this leather overlay, so it stiffens up this material. This ballistic mesh is an extremely supportive material.

After putting it to test, the foot was not coming out of the footbed at all foot also was not moving around inside of the shoes just because it was really snug fit

The lockdown is very good, with an excellent lacing system, and the padding around the ankle collar keeps the back of the heel very tight and locked down.

It has a containment system and a four-foot strap that helps keep your ankles and heels stable. It has a nice heel counter along with TPU reinforcements for good lateral stability

Main Facts

• Grip: Excellent
• Support: Great
• Fit: Excellent
• Lockdown system: Great

 

Indoor & Outdoor Durability

If you’re playing on a clean Court, you should be good to go. Also, if you play on a dusty court as well, you’re gonna be having an amazing time on it.

It does not pick up much dust, and even if it picks up a little bit of dust, you are good to go with a slight wipe.

If you feel the grooves in the rubber, the rubber is very, very hard in this outsole, and the grooves are very deep, and we have a lot of surface area.

We have a lot of rubber here throughout the entire outsole, so you should be good to go on the outer court as well.

Main Facts

• Traction: Excellent
• Durability: Good
• Maintenance: Great

Ventilation

Nike Ja 1 has decent ventilation. There’s not a whole lot of airflow through this ballistic mesh, and also, we have these leather overlays.

And then in the back of the shoe, we have a good amount of foam, so it is on the warmer side of things, not the best for ventilation

Main Facts

• Mesh: Okay
• Fabric Quality: Too Good
• Upper Material: Okay

Best Shoes For Ankle Support

The Nike Ja 1 is the best shoe for ankle support. It has a little Zoom unit in the midsole, and there’s a nice little compression and bounce.

The shoes are pretty good for the core field as well, so its cushioning setup does everything really well.

For the traction, it’s pretty solid, but it was inconsistent. There’s not that much impact, but you are getting a good core feel and responsiveness.

Though the materials aren’t very premium, it’s pretty standard for a first signature budget shoe, and it gets the job.

Overall it felt great on foot and felt supportive and minimal, but also it doesn’t feel too cheap for material quality, especially for the price.

Brandblack Pro Am Performance Review

For those of you who have read or watched WearTesters for years, you know we’ve previously worked with Brandblack. They let us collaborate on two shoes, the Brandblack Ether and the Brandblack Rare Metal. Both of which got SoleSnk colorways that were bad@$$. But it isn’t the collaborations or access to the designers and owners that make Brandblack unique, it’s the fact they create some of the most unique-looking and still killer performers on the market. The latest is the Brandblack Pro Am, and it compares to some all-time greats. Here. We. GOOOOOOO!!!!!…

Traction

It’s been a while, but I believe we ALWAYS start with traction, and the traction from the little Xs on the Brandblack Pro Am is flat-out amazing. Drawing off of the original Brandblack basketball shoe, the J Crossover 1, this pattern covers all directions and does NOT let dust build-up. Oh, it may hang on for a second, like the picture shows, but it doesn’t stop the grip. I wiped once at the beginning of each run and that was it – clean and easy.

The one thing that may sound strange is it’s not a BITE stop – it’s a smooth stop, and let’s go as soon as you are ready for the next step. Durability? Yeah, it’s good so far. I haven’t played hard outdoors, only some shooting around and one-on-none moves, but there is not a single sign of breaking up.

Cushion

The foam used in the new Rare Metal Evo and the Brandblack Pro Am is called Zerolon and it’s really, really good. I wasn’t a fan of the supercritical Jetlon foam in the Rare Metal 2 – it didn’t have much bounce for me – but give the Zerolon a couple of wears and be ready. It rides low and has great impact protection while still giving some spring in your step (think Nike Kobe 5 or 6 – not the last time that comparison will be made).

Brandblack started with Jetlon (and it was AWESOME) and then got into the supercritical Jetlon, and Zerolon is a true evolution of the two. It is still described as “supercritical” and does have that soft/bounce feel, but the best part is it feels super-stable too, with just enough structure and support to keep it from collapsing on the edges but still open enough to compress and bounce.

Materials

The upper of the Brandblack Pro Am is fused sailcloth. Legit, that’s what the product page says. What does it feel like? The Kobe 6, with some slight changes. It has a rip-stop look to the middle layer (the upper has a 3/4 internal mesh bootie and attached tongue) and then is almost completely covered in a thin fuse.

All the layers would seem to be stiff and to be honest, the first wear the toebox was a little “rice crispies”, but again, after that first couple of games the flex and fit improved immensely. The laces are super-reinforced and they have to be – otherwise, the Salomon-esque cord lacing system would probably rip through on the second pull. An extra large pull loop on the heel makes getting in easier and topping it off is a thick ring of padding around the ankle.

Fit

I really wanted to get into the lacing in the materials section but it has more to do with fit, so here we go. The Brandblack Pro Am uses a cord and pull system normally seen on Salomon trail runners. It’s also seen on street-style runners and kid’s shoes quite often in 2023. One pull will tighten the shoe from top to bottom. I still pulled each one individually because I am an old creature of habit but the system is designed for one pull and lock-in.

Brandblack kindly made the tongue label a lace garage (pouch) to tuck the lock and cord into because otherwise, it looks like your lace cord is excited and no one wants that. Once the cords are tight there is no movement at all. The heel locks in with that padding around the collar, the midfoot is locked because the material hugs and doesn’t stretch, and the forefoot is slim and fitted to the last to give almost no wiggle room. Again with Kobe 5/6 nostalgia leaking into the Brandblack Pro Am.

Support

Wide forefoot. Slight outrigger. Lockdown in the heel with a solid heel counter. What else do you need? Oh, yeah, a midfoot shank. It’s there, too, in the form of a TPU structure under the arch. This isn’t a shoe that will feel like a boot with straps and loops and a thick build, but if you’re a fan of the Kobe 4/5/6 you know what you’re getting.

At no time during my Brandblack Pro Am testing did I worry about my ankles rolling. When coming off screens or planting to drive, the wide forefoot gave me a base to lift off of. The most important things for me in a shoe now are traction and stability. The transition while playing was Nice n Smooth (sometimes I play slow…). The fantastic traction alongside the low and springy foam, the midfoot plate, and the solid lockdown made changing direction and defensive movements quick and strong. Not having to think about my next step made me feel quicker and more confident.

Brandblack Pro Am Summary

There is a reason I kept referencing the Kobe 5/6 in this review. I was told by the owner of Brandblack (after I bought the Rare Metal Evo) that the Brandblack Pro Am is “our Air Jordan”. This is David’s shoe and when I asked him again about the similarities to the Kobe line he said “that’s exactly what it is! I love the Kobe 5/6 as best hoops shoes ever for me” and he set out to design the Brandblack Kobe hybrid. I have to say – success.