Nike Zoom Uptempo 3.0

Perfect Strangers

At first glance of the Nike Zoom Uptempo 3.0, it looks like a mash up of the previous Zoom Kobe 1 and Zoom Kobe 2.While both were excellent in their own rights,2 rights together can sometimes throw things off and make a wrong.That being said the exciting combination of double stacked zoom air in the heel coupled with a nike free inspired outsole similar to the Zoom Kobe 2 has the pedigree of a winner.Lets find out if there is such a thing as too perfect.

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note the fabric wrap stitched on for additional support

The upper of the Nike Zoom Uptempo 3.0 is similar to the Zoom Kobe 1 which depending on how you look at it,could be a good thing or a bad thing.Thankfully Nike seemed to learn from the issues previously had on the zk1 and managed to improve on them.One of the issues on the Zoom Kobe 1 was the overall lock down feel when lacing up the shoe.On the Zoom Kobe 1 it seemed that no matter how tight one pulled on the laces,it never really felt like it was laced very tight.The Zoom Uptempo 3.0 remedies that by removing all of the padding that was in the tongue and lace hole area in the Zoom Kobe 1 and keeps all material to a minimum.While this does dramatically improve the wearers ability to really lock down their foot,it takes away some of the comfort that made the Zoom Kobe 1 comfortable to wear.The wearer’s foot is supported with a dynamic fit sleeve which adds comfort and support.Mesh vents and perforations on the medial side provide heat and moisture management but I found the shoe absorbing alot of moisture after playing in them.I didn’t really feel like my foot was excessively hot but with the shoe being primarily suede in the color way tested,it didn’t manage the moisture very well.

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perforations on the medial side help for heat and moisture management.Also visible is the cut out of midsole/outsole under the arches.

When Laced up tight,there is a bit of foam padding inside the shoe which was fairly comfortable..nothing spectacular..it gets the job done.The material that lines the collar that may cause irritation to those who like to wear no show socks.It is similar to the material used in the collar of the Zoom Kobe 1 however it isn’t as padded or flexible so be forewarned.

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visible in the window is the carbon fiber wrap.As well as the material in the collar and reinforced heel counter.

Overall ankle support is decent.The shoe features an additional fabric wrap made of heavy duty ballistic mesh nylon that wraps around the entire shoe to add additional support rather than the carbon fiber spring plate used in the zoom Kobe 1.The ballistic mesh adds support to the foot by preventing the foot from moving off of the foot bed.The shoe minimizes on weight by cutting out a piece of the outsole/midsole at the midfoot area.While the shoe does feature a carbon fiber midfoot shank,unlike most carbon fiber midfoot supports we have seen,it does not extend all the way across the bottom of the outsole but only extends to less than half way across the foot.The support works the way it is supposed to however,that open space under my arches caused some soreness from the lack of support.The ballistic Nylon mesh runs under the arch providing support,but it would have been nice to have a bit more support.The Phylon used in the midsole is very dense but didn’t hurt the weight of the shoe.The forefoot Zoom air coupled with the denser Phylon provided firm cushioning.It was fairly responsive but I guess I am spoiled by the feel of the zoom air in the Zoom BB’s.The Double stacked Zoom air in the heel provided great impact protection in the heel on hard landings.

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Nike "free" inspired outsole and another look at the cut out of material under the medial side of the foot.

Traction was great on normal hardwood.When I first brought it out to my dirty concrete tile floor,I did experience some slippage however by the second time I brought the shoe out it was fine.The Free inspired outsole worked with my foot well when cutting to the basket and allowing my foot to make the quick changes in direction when picking through the traffic on the way to the basket.The Rubber compound is also fairly dense so it may be able to stand up to use on outdoor courts with the denser phylon compound as well as a denser rubber compound that will stand up to black top better than the zoom Kobe 2 or zoom Kobe 1.

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Overall the shoe performed well.If you consider it’s price point of $80.00 US the value is excellent.It is a lightweight performance shoe that has excellent value for it’s features.I wasn’t a fan of the lack of support under the midfoot and while The zoom air in the forefoot wasn’t bad..I think it could have been better.

Comfort and Fit-3/5
Cushioning-3.5/5
Ankle Support-3/5
Traction-4/5
Overall-3/5

The shoe improved on the fit problems of the zoom kobe 1 but unfortunately cost it some of the comfort of it as well however I will admit I would take this upper over the zoom Kobe 1’s.Cushioning was decent but I expected better.Overall a decent shoe with excellent value for it’s price but not without it’s faults.

Jordan VII

Lucky Number Slevin

Originally released in late 1991,the Jordan VII is a testament to spectacle that was Micheal Jordan.2ND NBA title,MVP,All NBA 1st team,All NBA defensive team,Olympic gold medal with the "Dream Team".Talk about busy,if this shoe review was to be based on historic moments alone,it would most certainly be right up there.It incorporated certain features of Huarache technology which made for optimized fit and weight.Heel and forefoot air units,and depending on the colorway,a number of full grain leather or synthetic uppers.Lets see if it was really the shoes...Oh yah,one more thing..Bugs Bunny wore them too...

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Note the Huarache inspired minimal upper

The Jordan VII features some aspects of Nike's Huarache technology which provides light weight comfort.As with most Huarache based shoes,the Jordan VII features a dynamic fit sleeve for optimal foot support and comfort.The upper is also designed to be as minimal as possible and doing away with excess material and making for a light shoe.The Huarache based elements make the shoe one of the more comfortable shoes just to wear.Much of the padding we are used to around the ankle area is gone.Instead the padding is provided by the dynamic fit sleeve that extends to the Achilles and two inserts in the ankle area.Unfortunately this also does away with alot of the shoe's ankle support.The lack of material in the ankle area doesn't do much for ankle support making it almost similar to a low top.

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The Jordan VII features a heel tab with Jordan's #23 and the Olympic version featured his Dream Team #9 jersey number

Cushioning is provided by heel and forefoot encapsulated air.While not responsive like Zoom air it still manages to provide excellent impact protection.The cushioning performed well on the concrete tile surface.The midsole provides additional support to keep the foot from moving side to side with phylon ridges that extend up the lateral and medial sides of the heel and forefoot.The fit sleeve and lacing system prevented any heel movement locking down my foot.The shoe runs true to size and was able to accommodate my wide foot without any discomfort.

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note the serrations in the solid rubber for maximum flexibility

Traction was surprisingly good.When I first got the shoe,I thought there was no way I was going to bring this to my notorious dirty concrete tile court.I got brave one day and was pleasantly surprised,although I had to constantly wipe the soles for optimal traction,when clean the traction is fairly good.While the shoe doesn't feature traditional herringbone pattern,it does feature plenty of surface area and a softer rubber compound to really dig into the playing surface area.The sole also has serrations in the forefoot to aid the shoe's flexibility without sacrificing surface area.

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note the cutouts in the ankle area as well as the dynamic fit sleeve.

Overall very very comfortable to wear.The shoe was fairly light and offers good impact protection.Unfortunately the shoe sacrificed ankle support for the lighter weight which wasn't anything mind blowing.Traction is good as long as you wipe the soles and for a shoe that was designed over 16 years ago it still performed reasonably well.

Comfort and Fit-4/5
Cushioning-3.5/5
Ankle Support-2/5
Traction-3/5
Overall-3/5

Ankle support is the shoe's biggest weakness,but even 16 years after it's release The Jordan VII still stands as one of the more comfortable Jordan's I have worn.Unfortunately the ankle support issues,older cushioning setup,constantly having to wipe the soles for traction make it hard to recommend for regular use on court but still good for the occasional run.And that's all folks!!!....sorry had to do it...

Nike Uptempo Motion Nash

Solar Flare

The Nike Uptempo Motion like the Nike Zoom Brave was another of Nike's limited releases.With the home white/orange/grey colorway being a Canada only release and the away black/white/purple release being Asia only.The Asia only colorway also received zoom air cushioning while the home colorway got heel and forefoot encapsulated air.It features Nike's chassis system for stability and support.Ill get into that more as the review progresses.I was disappointed that the shoe lacked zoom air especially since Nash's previous game shoe was the excellent Nike Zoom Drive.Lets see if the shoe continues to rain on my parade or if it shines bright enough to burn away those clouds of doubt.

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A look at the Nike Chassis System.Also note how the collar slopes down from the top of the laces

When I first picked up the shoe I was surprised that it isn't the lightest shoe.Not that it is the Lebron IV, I was just surprised that it wasn't lighter especially since it looks light with it's high speed low drag design.The Uptempo Motion doesn't feature a dynamic fit sleeve but I didn't have any problems with seams or fit.The material used inside the shoe was very comfortable with plenty of padding around the collar.The collar slopes down from the top laces down to the Achilles tendon for maximum freedom nearly bringing the range of motion to that of a low top without sacrificing ankle support.The Nike Chassis System cradles your foot with TPU supports that cup the wearer's foot.Coupled with additional material stitched over the upper providing additional support that works in conjunction with the the rest of the upper and heel counter offering excellent support and stability.Overall ankle support is decent,due to the fairly low cut of the shoe.The Uptempo Motion's lacing system pulls the upper securely around the foot with a second lace hole at the top to really cinch in the ankle.The midsole is also internalized furthering the attempt to lower the profile of the shoe even without zoom air.

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a look at the medial side and Chassis System

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the shoe features Nash's #13 on the heel

As I stated at the beginning of the review,the home colorway didn't get the zoom air package the away colorway got.This was the shoe's biggest drawback where you have a shoe built to be low profile and perfect for the naturally low profile and responsive cushioning but instead was implemented with the standard Nike Air units.Asia seems to be getting many of the great exclusives in colorways and shoes lately with multiple colorways of the Nike Zoom Kobe 2 and Nike Zoom Brave.Fortunately the lack of Zoom Air didn't completely kill the shoe.I think it was one of those expectation type of deals where you know the shoe doesn't have Zoom Air but know it should.The cushioning performed well in terms of shock absorption but when making cuts and attacking the basket I was expecting the responsive cushioning I get from the Zoom Air.If it was a cost issue I would have paid another $10-15.00 to get zoom air in the shoe.

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a look at the outsole

The outsole features multi-directional herringbone and a big ol' Swoosh right down the middle of the forefoot.Maybe if the Swoosh was in the midfoot where the outsole doesn't actually touch the playing surface rather than up in the forefoot area where traction and surface area is most needed for acceleration or quick change of direction.On clean hardwood I didn't have any problems,but naturally on the concrete tile I felt a bit of slippage in the forefoot area.I think another problem the shoe has in terms of traction is that the rubber compound used was fairly stiff.Perhaps a softer compound would have allowed the outsole to better grip and "bite" the playing surface batter.That being said the stiffer rubber compound should make the shoe an excellent performer on outdoor courts.

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visible is the 2 additional layers of fabric stitched into the upper for additional support.

While the shoe was an above average performer I truly feel as if the lack of Zoom Air truly hurt the overall feel of the shoe.Maybe I'm just spoiled from playing in excellent Zoom Air based shoes and to have to transition back to a standard Air cushioning system kind of "buzz-killed" it for me.I love how the shoe gives plenty of freedom in the Achilles area simulating a low top shoe.And for whatever reason I really liked the material used inside the shoe making it perfect for no-show socks and a summer outdoor hoops shoe.

Comfort and Fit-4/5
Cushioning-3/5
Ankle Support-3/5
Traction-3.5/5
Overall-3.5/5

Overall nothing spectacular but it does get the job done.There are a number of other shoes I would probably bring out before these again.Maybe if I can track down a pair of the Zoom Air based Asia exclusives I will update the review and compare.But being that the shoe was a Canada/Asia exclusive,and fairly hard to get,look elsewhere unless you're a die hard Steve Nash fan.

Adidas GCS Decade

Combat Evolved

The Adidas Decade has been a mainstay in Adidas' line of shoes.Even as the company has evolved and advances in technology are made classic shoes like the Adidas Superstar,Decade and Forum are all updated year after year with new tech while keeping with the design of the classic.The Adidas GCS Decade has been updated with Adidas' latest tech-GCS standing for Ground Control System.GCS was first introduced in running shoes,it works much like a car's suspension does promoting stability and conforms to changes in terrain reducing stress on the body keeping the wearer's foot stable.Ill go more into detail about the tech as I progress through the review.

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some examples of how the Decade has evolved

The Decade was a shoe I was excited to try out because of the new tech.GCS works by creating a ground leveling effect with the midfoot and heel being supported by a tpu shank working independently from the midsole and outsole.In this case three columns that run along the medial side of the shoe providing excellent support when moving laterally and on hard cuts by moving independent from the rest of the outsole/midsole preventing overpronation.Ankle support is definitely a plus on this shoe.Dense foam padding inside the shoe provides comfort and support.A CMEVA foam wing runs through the lateral side of the shoe providing support keeping the foot in place making sure the foot doesn't slide off of the footbed on hard cuts.

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a look at the GCS tech with the 3 column setup as well as a look at the multi-directional traction pattern

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a look at the medial side of the shoe with the TPU shank and GCS

I initially found the shoe to be a little bit on the stiff side during the initial break in period.Definitely not a shoe you want to pull out of the box and go with right away.After about 2-3 days of working out and light running in the shoe broke them in nicely.Heat and moisture management is good with a vent on the medial side as well as the tpu shank being perforated.There is additional padding for Achilles support and comfort.Unfortunately wearing no show socks might cause skin to be chafed from the seams on the support.Cushioning was a bit on the stiff side.With heel and forefoot Adiprene,cushioning was decent but not spectacular.Compared to the cushioning provided in the Adidas Crazy 1 the Decade feels like it took a step backwards in the cushioning department.Traction was decent.I actually expected the shoe to perform better in the traction department when looking at the outsole pattern.There is plenty of surface area for the shoe to come into contact with the playing surface but I continually experienced sliding during play on both hardwood and naturally dirty tile.After examining the shoe I'm guessing the rubber compound used for the outsole is a bit on the hard side and doesn't really grip the floor very well.

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a look at the CMEVA foam wing

Overall the shoe excels stability and ankle support but was only mediocre in all other performance aspects.I was initially excited to try out the new GCS tech but was kind of turned off by how the rest of the shoe performed.Good thing the series continues to evolve.

Comfort and Fit-3/5
Cushioning-2.5/5
Ankle Support-4.5/5
Traction-3/5
Overall-3/5

Fit was excellent but comfort was not so much.Overall the concept shows promise but execution was lacking on this one.

Nike Zoom BB

The Quick and the Dead

"Quick is Deadly" is the slogan used to describe Nike's latest guard oriented shoe.The Nike Zoom BB is a no frills straight up performance shoe.The kind of shoe I love but unfortunately I've been burned by that type of description in the past.Beauty is in the eye of the beholder when it comes to the shoe.At first glance it looks like a glorified Nike Blazer but it is much more than that.Coming with a 6 mm full length Zoom Air unit to put you closer to the ground than ever before all inside of a light weight supportive package.Lets find out if the shoe is throwing 7 different kinds of smoke or just a flash in the pan.

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Note the high cut of the shoe but also how the collar slopes allowing flexibility for the Achilles

My initial impression of the shoe was eh...After reading the description of the shoe it managed to make a blip on my radar of shoes that I HAVE to pick up.A guard oriented basketball shoe that puts emphasis on speed and performance is all the way down my neck of the woods.When you first pick up the shoe you ll notice how light it is.However putting the shoe on is when you will truly appreciate the shoe.A full length dynamic fit sleeve cradles your foot and offers a seamless fit while providing heat and moisture management.The shoe is also cut fairly high but slopes down for maximum lateral support and flexibility for active players with minimal restriction similar to the Jordan XXI.The interior is lined with soft dense padding for comfort and support.However near the top of the shoe is a set of 3 lace holes that are coated and causes discomfort when wearing no show socks and laced all the way to the top.I really don't wear no show socks when playing anymore but I picked up on the problem right away when trying on the shoe.I didn't have problems with fit.I thought I might be too wide for the shoe but did not experience any discomfort.The lacing system really pulls the shoe around your foot and provides a great fit.

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note the TPU heel support and difference in height from the top of the collar to the bottom.

I thought ankle support might be an issue due to the minimal use of material used throughout the shoe.The designers thought it out well when deciding where to add materials for increased support to keep the overall design minimal.The injected TPU heel support adds stability and support.The cut of the shoe and the way it seems to provide a locked down feeling of a boot without being restrictive also adds to the excellent ankle support.Alot of times ankle support is sacrificed to reduce weight or add to flexibility but the Nike Zoom BB manages to keep a high level of ankle support without adding to the weight or taking away from the flexibility.

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note the forefoot outrigger for stability and the simple profile of the shoe.

Cushioning comes from a 6mm full length zoom air unit.One of my biggest concerns with the shoe was that I would be too heavy for the shoe for it to properly support and cushion me during active play.The shoe performed very well and I would have said excellent except I came down awkwardly landing on my heel and I really felt that impact.I could attribute the discomfort to the awkward landing but I feel it isn't a stretch to say this shoe wasn't designed for the big guys in the paint.The zoom air is responsive and propels me into my next step during play.Court feel is right up there with the Zoom Kobe 2.I felt the shoe working with my foot rather than resisting it when making hard cuts or change of direction.While not Nike Free technology the minimal design allows the shoe to work like an extension of the wearer's foot.

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note the modified herringbone pattern and forefoot pivot point

Traction was excellent on hardwood.With plenty of surface area and soft rubber compound to grip the floor.It also features a forefoot pivot point for maximum traction on those Tony Parker like spin moves in the lane.Performance on the dirty tile was also great.I had minimal slippage and didn't have any problems making any moves on the dirty floor.

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note the perforated medial side for moisture and heat management

Overall the shoe is right up there for best performance shoe this year.It's biggest drawback is that it isn't made for everyone.While support is excellent,and cushioning is great it isn't enough for the big guys who pound the paint.Guards and slashers however should rejoice that their shoe has arrived.

Comfort and Fit-4/5
Cushioning-4/5
Ankle Support-4/5
Traction-4.5/5
Overall-4/5

While I loved the shoe,those who like to play in no show socks may experience discomfort from the coating used to protect the top 3 lace holes.Comfort and Fitness and Cushioning lost points from the awkward landing and that those liking their shoes cut a bit lower might find the shoe a tad restrictive.Otherwise if you're an active guard who like to attack the basket looking for a lightweight and supportive performance shoe,get out there quick and pick these up.

Nike Zoom Brave

Fearless

Looks can be deceiving.At first glance there is really nothing spectacular about the Nike Zoom Brave.Initially released as Yuta Tabuse's signature shoe,Tabuse was the first Japanese player to make the NBA.The Zoom Brave was also worn by Jason Kidd and Kevin Martin.The shoe features a dynamic fit sleeve,full length zoom air and combination herringbone pattern/concentric circle outsole.It took me nearly 5 months to track down the shoe and get it imported from Asia.

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note the mesh vents on the forefoot between the black and silver lace loops

When you first pick up the zoom brave you'll notice how light it is.It is actually lighter than the Nike Zoom BB which is slated to be the newest top of the line guard oriented shoe that Nike produces.While researching information about the shoe it was heavily advertised of having "advanced fitting" made specifically for "Japanese feet".I didn't have any problems with the fitting of the shoe with my moderately wide and flat feet.The shoe actually rivals the Nike Zoom Kobe 1 in terms of comfort.Its full length dynamic fit sleeve allows for a totally seamless fit.It features a mesh tongue and vents on the forefoot for heat and moisture management.It is well padded inside the shoe and I didn't experience any foot movement during play.One downside however is the shoe is cut fairly low and offers hardly any ankle support.The lacing system really locks down the players foot and midfoot support is excellent but all that does little to offset the shoe's biggest weakness in the ankle support department.

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note the combination herringbone/concentric circle outsole

The outsole really helps make the shoe special.It features a combination herringbone/concentric circle pattern.Coupled with plenty of surface area for the outsole to contact the playing surface,I can't name many shoes off the top of my head that beat this one in the traction department.It performed exceptionally well on hardwood and didn't slip once on the dirt tile surface after a day's worth of mud and dirt was tracked through the gym.

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note the midfoot lace loops which add mid-foot support

Cushioning is excellent,it features a full length zoom air unit that is responsive and low to the ground.I didn't experience any soreness or excessive leg fatigue on concrete tile.With a wide foot base and phylon support in the forefoot to keep the foot from moving.The midsole is actually internal in the heel of the shoe,with a perforated and raised patterned leather covering it.While the pattern isn't lasered on,it adds an extra dimension to the shoe.

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note the low profile design that emphasizes speed

Overall the effort that went into tracking down the shoe was well worth it.If you are an active guard looking for a lightweight shoe,this could be the one for you...If you can find it.

Comfort and Fit-4.5/5
Cushioning-4/5
Ankle Support-2/5
Traction-5/5
Overall-4.5/5

I absolutely loved the shoe.It is stable,excellent cushioning,comfortable and provides top of the line traction.It's biggest downfall is it's lack of ankle support and difficulty to obtain.It also isn't the prettiest shoe but we're concerned with performance not looks on this site.If you can find it and like shoes like the Nike Zoom Turbine and Nike Zoom Flight 2k3 you will definitely love this one.

Nike Zoom Flight 5

ZOOM ZOOM

Originally released in 1996,Jason Kidd 2 years off his co-rookie of the year was given his first shoe to bear his name.That same year,he was traded to the Phoenix suns to join Kevin Johnson and a rookie from Santa Clara, Steve Nash.The Suns battled back from an 0-13 start to make the playoffs behind a "small ball" starting back court of Kidd and Johnson with Nash backing up both guard spots.The Nike Zoom Flight 5 was inspired by a track spike and Jason Kidd's ability to turn games into track meets.With a track spike inspired outsole and TPU "alien eye",the shoe was built for speed.The shoe also features the continued evolution of zoom air from the previous Zoom Flight 95 and Zoom Flight 96.

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note the track spike inspired outsole as well as the concentric circle pattern.

With the focus of the shoe on speed,the shoe needs to really grip the court just as a pair of track spikes really get into the dirt for maximum traction on the track.With speed nubs coupled with concentric circles on soft composite rubber,the shoe does just that.As seen in figure1 the traction pattern only covers the forefoot rather than both forefoot and heel.The concentric circle pattern optimizes a shoe's ability to come into contact with the playing surface at 360 degrees,maximizing the outsole's ability to really grip the playing surface.The traction ate up the dirty tile floor with minimal slippage and performed wonderfully on clean hardwood.

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note the lower profile cut on the ankles as well as the TPU "alien eye"

The shoe also features a phylon support wing on the lateral side with a TPU "alien eye" continuing the bug eye concept started with the zoom flight 95.The TPU pod actually helps the phylon wing support the mid-foot.The phylon wing is actually segmented and allows for maximum flexibility.The heel features a large heel counter that locks down the rear part of the shoe while a TPU midfoot shank keeps everything stable.A dynamic fit sleeve also adds to the fit and support.Its a good thing the shoe is stable because it offers hardly any ankle support.The collar of the shoe ends just under the ankle bone.

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a rear view of the shoe as well as Jason Kidd's logo

At the time of the shoe's release,Zoom air was still in it's relative infancy.What started out as tensile air in the Nike Air Go evolved into zoom air in the Zoom Flight 95 and continued on with the Zoom Flight 96.However the difference of 2 years made all the difference for the shoe.When I wore original zoom air based shoes it felt like there wasn't any cushioning at all.Hardly any of the responsive and low to the ground properties we are used to today.The Zoom Flight 5 was the first zoom air based shoe that I really LOVED playing in.Cushioning was responsive and low to the ground.I felt like I had total control of how I moved without sacrificing cushioning.With previous models I felt like I was lower to the ground.Unfortunately at times it felt like I was landing directly on the ground barefoot with the Zoom Flight 95 and 96.

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the front view of the shoe.Note how the phylon wing is segmented to allow flexibility.

I'm going to admit that this shoe was the shoe that made me LOVE shoes.I loved the amazing design and how it was different from anything out at the time.It isn't however without it's faults,ankle support is below average.While the shoe as a whole is very stable,the whole track spike inspiration didn't really allow for a higher cut for ankle support.While a cosmetic issue,The TPU pod scratches fairly easily.

Comfort and Fit-4/5
Cushioning-4/5
Ankle Support-2.5/5
Traction-4.5/5
Overall-4/5

Although originally released in 1996,the shoe stands up well versus many shoes designed today.It does have a strange fit to it.While it is cut a bit on the wider side,it's length is a bit on the shorter side.Ankle support is about on par with a low top.But if you re looking for a shoe to run the opposition ragged with,this is your shoe.

Nike Zoom Flight 2K3

Hero in a Half Shell

PURE PERFORMANCE.When you look at the Zoom Flight 2K3 those two words are the first words that come to mind.It looks fast,light weight,new materials,aggressive traction,full length zoom air.The shoe features a revolutionary thermo-formed outer shell which provides light weight support.The material is more rigid than foamposite material but still pliable.

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note the outrigger on the forefoot for added stability as well as the beautiful profile of the shoe.

With the use of the thermo-formed outer shell,weight is greatly diminished.The shoe from top to bottom is extremely stable.Outriggers on the lateral side of the forefoot gives the wearer a wide and stable base on while slashing to the basket.The shell provides great ankle support.It is less pliable than foamposite material.But still rigid enough to offer excellent support.The cut of the shoe is also fairly high extending above the ankle bone.This however manages to create another problem where the edges of the top of the shoe has only thin strips of thinly cushioned material covering the edges of the shell.When wearing no show socks,chafing will occur and will cause discomfort.Quarter socks will give you enough coverage to prevent the material from rubbing on the skin.Another problem I encountered was that my heel was slipping a bit.Even after wearing two pairs of socks to try to remedy the problem to fill in the open spaces,the heel area just wasn't fitting right.The shoe features a dynamic fit sleeve with extra coverage in the Achilles area to prevent chafing that takes place around the rest of the ankle area.Unfortunately when putting on the shoe,your heel will push the sleeve down even after loosening the laces and you end up fishing for the pull tab and due to the rigidness of the shell,it becomes an index finger dexterity and strength exercise.

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a look at the wide heel as well as the troublesome heel pull tab

Cushioning is provided via full length zoom air.However,it felt to be a little bit higher than I am used to in terms the application of zoom air.It was still responsive and managed to absorb the shock I put on my feet during active play but just felt like I was sitting higher than similar shoes in it's class.The shoe breathes very well with the shell being perforated for breathablity.The dynamic fit sleeve is lined with mesh as well adding to the already excellent moisture management.

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note the 5 dots on the lateral side of the forefoot meaning the shoe is in the "Alpha Project" family of shoes.

Traction is excellent.With plenty of surface area and herringbone traction for the forefoot area,the heel features what feels to be a rubber compound that feels a bit softer than the herringbone traction and small speed nubs for maximum traction.I had absolutely no problems with traction on both well and poorly maintained courts.

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If I was to grade a shoe simply by how or whether it performed,the Nike Zoom 2K3 would receive top scores.However,the shoe isn't without it's flaws.The outer shell felt like it restricted my movement and did not really allow my foot to get the angles I normally get on other shoes in it's class.

Comfort and Fit-2.5/5
Cushioning-3.5/5
Ankle Support-4/5
Traction-5/5
Overall-3/5

Comfort and fit was the biggest sore spot on the shoe.Cushioning lost points for the the shoe feeling like it sit higher than what was expected.

Jordan XV

SUPERSONIC

With the lasting final image of greatness of Jordan being him at the top of the key in the Delta Center having just hit the game winning shot against the Utah Jazz in the excellent Jordan XIV's.Our next look at the legacy that is Jordan was the Jordan XV.Not quite as pretty.The XV was inspired by the X-15 supersonic jet.The X-15 was revolutionary in it's design and performance.It made several speed and altitude records by a manned aircraft.The shoe also features a tongue that is said to be inspired by Jordan and his habit of sticking out his tongue while making the impossible look pedestrian.Heel and forefoot zoom air,herringbone traction,full length dynamic fit sleeve..what isn't there to love?Lets find out...

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Note the tongue sticking out as well as the woven panels.

The XV is perhaps the least favorite of all Jordans due to it's aggressive design and other issues we will be going over during the course of the review.I am also in the belief that out of %100 of people who don't like it,MAYBE %40 wouldn't dislike this shoe as much if they had an opportunity to see Jordan win another championship wearing the XV's.But then again that's strictly my opinion.The shoe features a dynamic fit internal bootie system that offers a seamless and supportive fit.When you first put on the shoe...actually when you first manage to struggle getting your foot into the shoe,it is fairly comfortable.Part of the problem of getting into the shoe is the large Pebax heel wrap.The wrap isn't very flexible..which is a good thing when it's main purpose is to support the wearer's heel,but again makes it difficult when trying to put your foot into the shoe.With a full length internal bootie,you would assume that fit and support would be excellent.Unfortunately while all the ingredients were there,the execution wasn't.The design of the shoe has a "V" shaped channel with speed lacing loops as well as Lycra loops that go up the channel which the laces run through to guide the laces when tightening the shoe.While the lacing system does a decent job of securing one's foot around the forefoot/midfoot area,there is hardly any support for the heel area.The lacing system and design of the shoe doesn't support or lockdown the heel area at all.I'm under the impression that the Pebax heel wrap was supposed to support the wearer's heel independent of the shoe's lacing system.Perhaps another lace loop or two would have done the trick to really pull the wearer's foot back into the heel wrap.

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note the "V" shaped lacing channel and the dress shoe inspired woven material and outrigger on the lateral side of the midfoot.

So with the lack of fit and support in the heel area,performance on the rest of the shoe suffers.Ankle support is average at best.A large phylon wrap at the midfoot that extends up the sides on the lateral and medial sides of the shoe to help support the foot and prevent the foot from rolling over.Coupled with the Pebax heel wrap,again the ingredients were there,the chef just didn't look at the recipe.The poor fit in the heel rendered any support given virtually null.While the shoe had a decent fit on my wide feet,those with narrow to moderately narrow feet should stay away.The lacing system just does not pull the shoe together enough to compensate for a more locked down fit.Due to an outrigger on the lateral side of the forefoot and heel,coupled with a fairly wide base,the shoe is a fairly stable ride.Cushioning is provided by heel and forefoot zoom air units.The zoom air is aided by heel and forefoot phylon inserts under the insole for additional impact protection.While I have not had any issues with cushioning I have heard other reports of shin splints and the cushioning system not working as well as it should be.

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2.17 is Jordan's birthday

Traction is provided by solid rubber and herringbone pattern.I will say that the XV's are some of the most resilient Jordans made.The traction seems to last even during heavy use while playing outdoor basketball and were even used to skateboard.Traction was great on clean hardwood and I didn't notice much slipping when testing on dirty concrete tile.There is plenty of surface area for the shoe to come into contact with the ground.

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a look at the Pebax heel wrap and the numbers down the heel meaning 15-Air Jordan #15,6-championships and 23-Jordan's jersey number

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A profile shot of the XV with it's X-15 jet,dress shoe and tongue hanging out inspirations

The Jordan XV in many ways had the potential to be great.Unfortunately it's execution left a bit to be desired.Actually the failure to really lockdown the heel hurt performance in nearly every aspect in the shoe.While I didn't hate the shoe and wasn't a fan of it's lack of ankle support, and poor fit in the heel.

Comfort and Fit-3/5
Cushioning-4/5
Ankle Support-2.5/5
Traction-4.5/5
Overall-3/5

Overall it's poor fit hurt the shoe.If comfort and fit were separate scores the comfort would have been 3 and fit would have been zero.The poor fit is simply inexcusable with the great history of fit with previous models.