Solid Snake
The Jordan XIX was inspired by the "Black Mamba" snake found in Africa.The snake is said to be the most dangerous snake on earth.The Jordan XIX featured Tech-Flex technology which provided lightweight support and was extremely flexible.It was included on a shroud which went over most of the shoe and was locked down with a velcro strap on the heel.It performed reasonably well but had issues with the strap staying locked down.The XIX SE removed the shroud altogether and went with a normal lacing system rather than the Tech-Flex and speed lace system.Rather than being a ".5" model as previous models the shoe was given the SE(special edition) tag to separate itself from the XIX.In terms of tech the shoe is top of the line with full length zoom air and double stacked zoom air in the heel for maximum responsive cushioning,coated carbon fiber midfoot shank for maximum stability and support,interior bootie which provides a seamless fit.With all that tech is it the king snake or just a garter snake?
figure1
Note the patent leather toe which adds to the shoe as well as the stability wedge on the forefoot which adds stability on lateral movement
When you first pick up the XIX SE you ll immediately notice how light the shoe is.The shoe was well designed and made to perform.The interior lining is soft and plenty of padding for the ankles for a comfortable fit.The interior bootie provides a seamless fit and has some moisture management properties.I noticed some problems with the toes while playing.The patent leather toe cap seemed to create some discomfort.It rubbed on the top of my forefoot creating some irritation.
figure2
note the modified herringbone pattern which provides excellent traction
Traction is the shoe's greatest strength.The modified herringbone pattern coupled with a semi-translucent rand that runs from the medial side of the heel and to the lateral side of the forefoot.The compounds used for the outsole are soft and provide excellent traction.The stability wedges add to the traction creating wide bases and additional surface area for the heel and forefoot.The carbon fiber midfoot shank provides lightweight support.The carbon fiber is actually coated which helps prevent it from cracking over time.
figure3
note the Tech Flex heel pull
Cushioning is premium as well.With full length zoom air and double stacked zoom air in the heel the shoe has plenty of padding to stand up to the pounding it takes oncourt.I found the zoom air to be responsive but a bit on the "mushy" side.It didn't effect performance but just enough to be noticeable.Ankle support is good.The wide bases on the heel and forefoot provide excellent stability and protection from ankle rolls.The shoe is cut a little high and the lacing system adds to the overall support.
figure4
note the overall profile and the higher cut of the shoe.
Overall the shoe is excellent.If you re looking for a lightweight performance shoe,you wont be disappointed.The traction is top notch and cushioning is excellent.The XIX SE may not have the Tech Flex shroud but doesn't disappoint.
Comfort and Fit-4/5
Cushioning-4.5/5
Ankle Support-4/5
Traction-5/5
Overall-4.5/5
The shoe lost some points due to the patent leather discomfort I felt in the forefoot area but the overall comfort and fit package was still excellent.All in all the shoe is excellent and should be in consideration for those who like lightweight performance shoes.
figure1Note the patent leather toe which adds to the shoe as well as the stability wedge on the forefoot which adds stability on lateral movement
When you first pick up the XIX SE you ll immediately notice how light the shoe is.The shoe was well designed and made to perform.The interior lining is soft and plenty of padding for the ankles for a comfortable fit.The interior bootie provides a seamless fit and has some moisture management properties.I noticed some problems with the toes while playing.The patent leather toe cap seemed to create some discomfort.It rubbed on the top of my forefoot creating some irritation.
figure2note the modified herringbone pattern which provides excellent traction
figure3note the Tech Flex heel pull
Cushioning is premium as well.With full length zoom air and double stacked zoom air in the heel the shoe has plenty of padding to stand up to the pounding it takes oncourt.I found the zoom air to be responsive but a bit on the "mushy" side.It didn't effect performance but just enough to be noticeable.Ankle support is good.The wide bases on the heel and forefoot provide excellent stability and protection from ankle rolls.The shoe is cut a little high and the lacing system adds to the overall support.
figure4note the overall profile and the higher cut of the shoe.
Overall the shoe is excellent.If you re looking for a lightweight performance shoe,you wont be disappointed.The traction is top notch and cushioning is excellent.The XIX SE may not have the Tech Flex shroud but doesn't disappoint.
Comfort and Fit-4/5
Cushioning-4.5/5
Ankle Support-4/5
Traction-5/5
Overall-4.5/5
The shoe lost some points due to the patent leather discomfort I felt in the forefoot area but the overall comfort and fit package was still excellent.All in all the shoe is excellent and should be in consideration for those who like lightweight performance shoes.
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