Nike Zoom Huarache Trainer

Crossing Over

Nike has been revamping it's cross training line by taking the great cross trainers of the past and updating them with today's advancements.The results from the basketball side of updating classics have been mixed at best.The cross training side has been better with the Air Trainer 1 and Air Trainer 1.5.Now the Nike Air Huarache Trainer gets an update.Zoom air and a revamped outsole while keeping the full length Lycra bootie makes for an excellent light weight training shoe.The question is so would it work on the basketball court?With the Huarache trainer popping up in the college ranks over the years and more recently on the feet of Amare Stoudamire,let's see if the Zoom Huarache trainer really has cross over appeal or should stay off the court.

figure1
note the lycra bootie

The Zoom Huarache trainer is very light due to the minimal Huarache design which cuts out excess materials without sacrificing fit and functionality.A full length Lycra bootie adds compression and a seamless fit.With all the material cut out to reduce weight,a mid foot strap locks down the foot while adding stability.No problems with breathability as the airflow through the shoe is excellent.

figure2
note the forefoot strap and slight forefoot outrigger

A zoom air unit in the heel provides excellent heel protection however with the flexible midsole forefoot cushioning is severely lacking.The feeling through the forefoot is very low profile but again after all the force absorbed by the torque generated by cutting and running makes for sore feet after extended play.

figure3
note the turf inspired outsole

Traction on the Trainer Huarache was interesting.A super flexible free inspired outsole is ideal for responsiveness when making cuts.However with a lack of mid foot rigidity,the possibility for injury skyrockets.The traction pattern is a turf inspired outsole but the raised turf pattern also works like a modified herringbone pattern and really eats up dirt on the court for better than expected traction.Ankle support was marginal which is common with Huarache based shoes.The Lycra sock and a solid heel counter holds the heel in place.The midfoot strap adds some support but not enough to cover the excessive flexibility of the outsole.

figure4

I went into the review not really knowing what to expect.I tempered my expectations on seeing NBA players and college players wearing cross trainers in games.The thing about most huarache based shoes is the similar feel from one type of shoe to the next.

Comfort and Fit-2.5/5
Cushioning-2.5/5
Ankle Support-2.5/5
Traction-3.5/5
Overall-2.75/5

As I went through the review process I constantly had to remind myself that I was playing in a shoe not designed for basketball.All ratings given are based on the shoe performing as a basketball shoe.The biggest problem with using the zoom huarache trainer is the lack of any midfoot rigidity.Especially when playing basketball,the massive amounts of torque one puts on the foot especially during quick lateral movement.Iinitially it was tough to determine what was causing some of the foot pain I endured during the review process.The soreness I experienced changed as I progressed from a result of my feet bending and twisting in ways they were not normally accustomed to the cushioning naturally breaking down and the stress from all the twisting became compounded with the lack of cushioning.Again this review was solely based on it's performance as a basketball shoe.

Nike Zoom KD 3

Be Unstoppable

Signature basketball shoes are funny things. There are times when a company slaps the player's name on the shoe and calls it a day and there are times when a company,designers and player are all on the same page and seemingly give you a piece of that person.in both the KD I and the KD II we really get a piece of Kevin Durant and what got him to where he is today.in the zoom KD 3 the new focus is on what is going to get him to the championship..his teammates.Kevin Durant and designer Leo Chang incorporated feedback from other Oklahoma city thunder players and made the shoe suitable for multiple positions.Forefoot zoom air and a tpu midfoot shank make for a good start.Let's see if the shoe performs more like the dream team or more bad news bears.

figure1
note the flywire panel on the forefoot

Having been designed for multiple positions,the KD 3 makes a couple concessions in terms of weight coming in just a little bit heavier than the hyperfuse.The flywire insert was a cool addition and is functional but there was so little of it I highly doubt it was a factor in reducing weight.The interior of the shoe carries over from the KD 2 where just under your ankle bone sits two padded lobes that helps lock the heel in place.A new addition was an adjustable strap on the medial side for additional midfoot/arch support.Those with flat feet may want to be wary but the pain subsided after a couple of wears and the materials broke in.Despite the nylon panels on the medial and lateral sides,as well as the mesh tongue,I had some issues with heat and moisture management.

figure2
note the rubber midsole wrap

Much like the previous shoes,the KD 3 features a full length cushlon midsole and forefoot zoom air unit.The zoom air unit is actually visible in the forefoot.While I didn't have problems with the lack of cushioning in the heel those needing the extra protection might want to go elsewhere.the forefoot cushioning is excellent and responsive.If compared to the hyperfuse,a shoe with a similar set up,I give the edge to the KD 3.

figure3
herringbone traction goodness..also note the window for the zoom air

Traction is really where the KD 3 shines.Full on herringbone traction with a nice wide forefoot base.No problems on any of the surfaces played on.The midsole is wrapped in rubber and features a tpu midsole shank for additional midfoot support.a forefoot outrigger adds lateral stability.Like the KD 2,the KD 3 is a 5/8 cut,just a little bit higher than a true low top but with the excellent heel fit coupled with great midfoot support doesn't sacrifice the shoe's ability to really support the foot.

figure4
note the medial strap

I really liked the KD 3's forefoot cushioning and the change in traction to a more traditional pattern.while in previous versions the shoe had been more about Kevin Durant and who and how he got to where he is today,I loved the concept of the team being the inspiration for the next step.

Comfort and fit-3.25
Cushioning-3.5/5
Ankle support-3/5
Traction-4.25/5
Overall-4.5/5

Perhaps my biggest issue with the KD 3 was the arch pain I experienced after my initial run in the shoe,which was a non factor after my first run.the comfort and fit score was based on my experience with my flat feet.I still had to address the issue and reflect it on the score.Lack of breathability hurt but upgraded traction and forefoot cushioning without raising the price point make the KD 3 tough to beat.

Jordan XI

Jumpman Jam

The Jordan 11 is quite possibly the most popular Jordans of all time.With it's cordura mesh and iconic patent leather upper,the Jordan XI was what opposing NBA teams saw during the bulls spectacular 72 win season.The Jordan XI also introduced us to a carbon fiber midfoot shank which is now a staple in basketball shoes.With a resume like that the XI should be a world beater. Let's see if it makes you believe you can fly or will send you crashing back to earth...

figure1
note the cordura mesh and patent leather upper

Relatively speaking,aside from the Jordan VII,the Jordan line up to this point has been a little bit on the heavy side.with the Jordan XI, a cordura mesh upper provides breathability and reduced weight.Unfortunately the Jordan XI suffers from the problem of minimalizing the upper tends to sacrifice support.With only minimal padding in the ankle area and speed lacing,the amount of lock down is negligible at best.The patent leather as a material does a pretty good job of keeping the foot from coming off of the footbed because of it's stiffness but still doesn't make up for the lack of lockdown especially around the ankle area.

figure2

note the raised phylon midsole for added heel support

The Jordan XI sits on a full length encapsulated air unit.Having played in the 2001 retro as well as the countdown pack black and red XI,this review will focus on the 2009 spacejam XI retro.Cushioning wildly fluctuated from soft full length air in the 2001 retro to what felt like cardboard in the countdown pack XI.Thankfully the 2009 XI sat right in the middle of the two.While not as soft as the 2001 retro,it provided enough cushioning to absorb some heavy pounding on concrete courts without experiencing any great discomfort.

figure3
note the excellent herringbone traction coupled with the soft translucent rubber

Where the XI truly shines is in the traction department.Herringbone traction on the heel and forefoot coupled with super soft translucent rubber.The Jordan XI also was the first time a carbon fiber midfoot shank was used to add some lightweight midfoot support.Now standard in most signature shoes,at the time the addition was a huge step forward.

figure4

When initially released in 1996,the Jordan XI was truly an innovator pushing for a reduction in weight as well as the introduction of new materials previously not used before.Nearly 15 years later and we are dizzy with shoes that have patent leather or have carbon fiber incorporated in them.The lack of any real lockdown really overshadows all of the advancements the Jordan XI was able to accomplish.

Comfort and fit-3/5
Cushioning-2.75/5
Ankle support-2.5/5
Traction-4.25/5
Overall-3/5

While it was definitely cool to bring this classic back on to the court,it definitely showed it's age..well not really it's age but maybe more the quality of Jordan retros.Regardless of how the shoe holds up today compared to what is currently available I'm sure the minute we get a chance to play in the Jordan XI's you'll see no shortage of people playing in them.

Nike Hyperfuse

All Together Now

Another addition to the Nike hyper line we now look at the Nike zoom Hyperfuse. Where most shoes within the hyper line ie Hyperdunk,Hypermax and Hyperize emphasize being the lightest shoes in it's class the Hyperfuse takes a slightly different approach.Rather than flywire, the Hyperfuse uses a different method of construction.Similar to the foamposite idea of a one piece upper, that is then fused (get it) with additional layers to allow a pliable material like mesh to be the primary material used as the upper without losing the support.The result is a breathable and flexible upper that does not warp or lose support over time.Let's see if the Hyperfuse holds up or splits at the seams

figure1
note the heel and forefoot outriggers as well as the different levels of the upper

Normally when you see "hyper" in front of the name of a shoe you kind of expect it to be really light..The Hyperfuse bucks that trend and while not heavy,just not what I expected after seeing most of the shoe is covered with mesh.The shoe fits nice and snug.Those with wider feet may want to be wary and try the shoe on and go up half a size if needed.Since the shoe is "fused" together there is minimal stitching and hardly any seams to be felt inside the shoe.The collar is nice and padded and fairly stiff for added support.The tongue is interesting where not completely padded but very thin,it features padding on certain pressure points where the shoe flexes and laces really dig into the foot.When I first picked up the shoe and inspected the tongue I was wary about the lack of padding on the tongue,but the designers did a great job incorporating that and their attention to detail.With the mesh upper the shoe breathes extremely well.I had some concerns about the durability of the upper during play with people stepping on the shoes as I move through traffic.While I didn't experience any rips on the mesh,I did feel it a little more when steps on my foot through the mesh.

figure2
note the mesh covered windows for maximum breathability

The Hyperfuse features a full length cushlon midsole with a zoom air forefoot unit.While I had no problems with the setup heavier and players wanting more cushioning in the heel may not be satisfied with the cushioning.The forefoot zoom air was responsive on cuts but again those looking for additional cushioning in the heel may want to look elsewhere

figure3
note the full herringbone pattern on the forefoot

Traction is primarily a herringbone based pattern in the forefoot.The grooves are nice and deep to really eat up the dust on the ground.On most surfaces played on I had no problems.On one of my runs the court was unswept and it was like ice skating.I ended up switching to the zoom Phenom to finish the run.The next week I brought the Hyperfuse again and didn't have quite as much slippage on the swept floor.A welcome addition however is the heel outrigger.In addition to the forefoot outrigger to provide great lateral stability,the heel outrigger helps when planting on the heel to keep the foot stable especially when pushing outward.I loved the strategic stiffness of the shoe with the different materials used.The heel support is great and really keeps the foot locked into place resulting in very good ankle support.

figure4

After over 3 weeks worth of playing exclusively in the Hyperfuse I enjoyed my time in them.I really liked the overall fit of the shoe especially after I broke in the shoe.The cushioning was good enough but when is good enough ever that.Traction was pretty good on most surfaces but that one instance when I had to swap out to the Nike Zoom Phenom on the unswept floor was tough.

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

Overall definitely a solid shoe.Its no surprise the shoe was on the feet of so many players in the NBA as well as during the world basketball championships this past summer.Despite heavy use,after every session I always inspected the mesh to see if there were any durability issues and happy to say the Hyperfuse held up extremely well.Time will tell how long the mesh will hold up after continuous use.A great first step and definitely excited to see what comes next.

Nike Zoom Kobe V

Relentless..

Most players work on their games during the off season.Most players peak at a certain point and that's about it.Kobe Bryant is certainly not one of those players,even at the age of 32, it seems like he comes back with something new every off season.Watching the progression of Kobe's signature line has also been another example of Kobe coming back with something new and improved every year.In the Zoom Kobe IV,we got a low top that did not sacrifice support despite it's height and light weight.In the Zoom Kobe V we now get even lighter and add zoom air to the forefoot replacing the Lunar foam.The addition of Zoom Air to the forefoot alone should be enough to push the shoe into greatness but the designers continued to evolve the use of Flywire and take yet another step closer to the ultimate goal-The perfect lightweight performance shoe..will the Kobe V continue to improve on the signature line's greatness or will the new additions just hide that the line has gone as far as it can.

figure1
note the skin like upper with molded overlays for support

I really don't want to come out and say that the Kobe V is the lightest Kobe signature shoe.Not that it isn't..it really is, but Ive been saying that since the Zoom Kobe III,and frankly I cant really express how light the shoe has gotten every year.The Zoom Kobe V continues to drop weight via losing much of the material overlays that were present in the Kobe IV.The Kobe V now sports an synthetic upper with thin,rigid molded overlays to add support to the shoe.The continued evolution of Flywire now extends from the ankle bone to the forefoot.The shoe cuts the weight and material to fit more sock like without sacrificing support.More material was taken from the tongue and replaced with a super thin layer of Sphere Dri Fit material for excellent breathability.In an effort to increase breathability,perforations on the medial side of the shoe and the toe box help the primarily synthetic upper breathe.Even the TPU heel counter was reduced to drop weight and the Kobe V compensates with the phylon midsole adding additional support and cradling the heel providing excellent support.The Dynamic fit tongue provides a snug fit over the top of the forefoot and wicking moisture off of the top of the foot.Those with wide feet may want to try on the shoe prior to purchase.Normally I can go up half a size on a shoe if it runs a bit narrow.The Kobe V gives no relief when going up in size for width.That being said I have wider feet and while extremely snug straight out of the box,I found the synthetic upper broke in after about 4-5 hours of wear.That being said,not really a shoe I would take right out of the box and play in right away.

figure2
note the reduced TPU heel counter and the sculpted phylon to cradle the wearer's foot

The Kobe V does away with the Lunar foam in the forefoot and adds forefoot Zoom air.Over time I have come to appreciate Lunar foam and I rotate my shoes enough to keep the foam from bottoming out from extended play.That being said,the addition of the responsive Zoom air in the forefoot adds another dimension to the shoe.Where the Lunar foam was excellent at absorbing impact,it's responsiveness left a little bit to be desired.Now on hard cuts the shoe gives a bit of bounce back pushing you into your next motion.Zoom air is also in the heel providing good impact protection.

figure3
note the ECG heart rate inspired outsole

The Kobe V changed the traction from the old reliable herringbone traction to an ECG heart rate inspired pattern.While I cant really say it is the pattern that effected the traction or the softness of the rubber used on the outsole that takes a step back from the Kobe IV.While by no means bad..it just isn't great..which is what we have come to expect out of Kobe's signature shoes.Traction also varied on the different types of outsoles played on.The clear outsoles seemed to not perform as good as the solid rubber compound outsoles.The pronounced outrigger once again returns to add lateral stability.The phylon midsole on the forefoot is elevated to add support and keep the foot from pushing off of the footbed on lateral cuts.A carbon fiber midsole shank adds lightweight stability and keeps the foot from twisting on harsh cuts.

figure4
note the pronounced outrigger

My appreciation for the Kobe V was not as instant as it was for the Kobe IV.Mostly due to the initial break in period that I experienced.A coworker of mine swore up and down by the Kobe V's and stated he wasn't a fan of the Kobe IV's..I was pretty much on the other side of the spectrum.I like the IV's fit out of the box and not so much of a fan of the V's fairly narrow fit.As I continued to break in the shoe I really started to enjoy playing in the Kobe V more and more.The addition of the Zoom air over the Lunar foam did not completely blow me out of the water.You can definitely tell the difference when coming from the IV to the V,but the addition did not completely push the shoe over into G.O.A.T. status like most people were hoping it would.The traction issue I think was more attributed to the different outsoles used.The clear rubber outsoles again did not perform as well as the standard rubber outsoles I think due to the stiffness of the rubber compound used to make the clear soles a little more durable.

Comfort and Fit-4/5
Cushioning-4/5
Ankle Support-0/5
Traction-4/5
Overall-4/5

figure5

Another year,another solid Kobe Signature shoe.The designers once again put together a shoe that has great support despite being a low top.The Kobe V manages to get even lighter without sacrificing the overall support which is important for a low top basketball shoe.The shoe needing a break in period to properly fit without pain was a bit of a disappointment and not sure what extended use will do to the upper.But the sock like fit is great and is the most breathable Flywire based basketball shoe to date.Adding Zoom air was a welcome addition and something we have been asking for but now that it's here the reaction was more "ehh"....spoiled brats..Anyways,great shoe for active guards and forwards.Post players once again may want to steer clear.

Peak Kidd 2

A Frame Ahead

Two years ago,Jason Kidd was traded from the New Jersey Nets to the Dallas Mavericks.Too old and declining skills they said.Fast forward to 2010 and Jason continues to be one of the top point guards in the NBA.Despite his age,he continues to play at a high level averaging 10.1 points,6.6 rebounds,9.2 assists and 2.0 steals per game while shooting 42% from three point range and 80% from the free throw line.Top it off with his 10th all star appearance.Not only did Jason change teams but he also changed shoe brands last year from Nike to Peak.Last season's Peak Kidd 1 was a decent start.While it had it's flaws,it still performed well enough to say that any drop off in Jason's performance shouldn't be attributed to his change in shoe companies.This season we get the Peak Kidd 2 that boasts some major improvements resolving some of the major issues of the Peak Kidd 1.With the Peak Kidd 2, extra attention was made to increase the breathability of the shoe as well as improving the traction.Lets see if the shoe really proves age ain't nothing but a number or if it will make you a grumpy old man.

figure1
note the slight curve to the forefoot

The Peak Kidd 2 feels a bit lighter than the Kidd 1.The materials used in the construction of the shoe felt like better quality than the Kidd 1.The asymmetrical collar comes back for great support without sacrificing range of motion.The collar is well padded with a softer material compared to the Kidd 1 and the lining did not bleed onto my socks like it's predecessor.The placement of the padding also keeps the heel locked down,where the padding is thickest between the ankle bone to really fill in the space between the ankle bone and heel to keep the foot in place.The breathability issue was addressed with mesh vents throughout the medial side of the shoe.The improvement in breathability was noticeable and kept my foot comfortable.Peak should probably consider changing the way the shoes are laced out of the box.Using an over-under method does not allow the wearer to really tighten the shoe to provide a snug fit.Changing to a more standard under-over lacing will allow the wearer to tighten as needed.

figure2
note the dark blue TPU shank that wraps under the heel

Peak designers did a good job lowering the profile of the Kidd 2 versus the Kidd 1.The Kidd 2 actually uses the same insole that gave me problems on the Kidd 1 but due with the reduced midsole,I didn't experience the same issues of excessive softness.Peak continues to tweak and evolve PK Rocket.On the Kidd 2, along with the lowered profile,the designers added a TPU shank to the heel that adds stability and helps disperse the force of impact evenly.I enjoyed the added stability and impact protection was again excellent.My only complaint is the again with the softer midsole comes extra weight and less court feel.I would like to see designers continue to move forward and find a way to add a lower profile overall feel without sacrificing the excellent impact protection.

figure3
note the combination herringbone pattern on the heel and forefoot for excellent traction when changing direction and translucent rubber inserts for additional traction.

The Kidd 2 also improved in traction versus it's predecessor.The entire outsole now features either multi-directional herringbone pattern or concentric triangles for plenty of surface area to eat up dirt and really grip all court surfaces.Again a soft rubber compound is used to add to the already excellent traction.The overall feel of the shoe is very stable.An internal TPU midfoot shank adds midfoot stability and when coupled with the TPU shank in the heel makes for a really stable ride.A semi curved last also makes for great heel to toe transition.

figure4
again note the semi curved outsole

I was impressed by the Peak Kidd 2.I liked that the shoe had an overall lower profile feel and the TPU shank in the heel to disperse the impact was great.Traction was excellent and designers addressed the lack of breathablity.Although lighter thank the Kidd 1,the shoe could be lighter with some tweaks to the midsole and compounds used.

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

Cushioning was great and while it provided excellent impact protection,the lack of rebound effect especially in the forefoot when cutting or pushing off in changes of direction made the difference.The comfort and fit of the shoe was improved but Peak would probably do better by changing the way the shoes are laced.The way the shoes are laced straight out of the box do not allow the wearer to really tighten the shoe and make for a snug fit.Overall the difference between the Kidd 1 and Kidd 2 is leaps and bounds.As Jason Kidd seems to be getting better with age,so too hopefully is mirrored by the Peak Kidd line.

Nike KD 2

Thunderstruck

I really try not to let certain events or players prevent me from trying certain shoes.That being said,having come from Seattle,the move of the Seattle Supersonics to Oklahoma City left a sour taste in my mouth and I completely shut out the team and players.Unfortunately,Kevin Durant and the rest of young superstars in the making wouldn't let me not notice them.Lets just reflect real quick on what Kevin Durant did this season.Youngest scoring champion,broke the record for most 25 point games and came second in MVP voting and was named to the all NBA 1st team.Needless to say, with the way signature shoes are going nowadays you would expect his signature shoe be priced in the mid $100's...nope..$84.99..not that I have forgiven the people who moved the Seattle Sonics to OKC..but the players just made a new fan.Now on to the shoe.Zoom air in the forefoot with a cushlon midsole for a soft ride.Midfoot strap and rubber heel counter for support.Lets see if the forecast calls for thunderstorms or just some light drizzle.

figure1
note the forefoot strap and additional fabric wrap on the lateral side

At first glance the KD 2 is nothing spectacular.Simple lines,overlays where extra support is needed,just simple and unassuming.Kind of like the player.At first glance,yah Kevin Durant is really tall but physically not really what one would call a physical specimen..until he drops 40 points on your head.A closer look at the shoe will reveal a number of personal touches that pertain to his life and what and the people that helped him get to where he is today...k back to the shoe..what is impressive about writing about this shoe more than probably any other is I find myself talking about Kevin Durant as I talk about the shoe which is a reflection of the great job the designers did really making this Kevin's shoe.The collar is well padded and right under where the ankle bone sits are two additional padded lobes to really create a nice fit and help prevent the heel from slipping.The shoe is cut fairly low,more like a 5/8 height to allow some ankle coverage but allow maximum flexibility.Unfortunately the single overlay of material in the upper doesn't allow for a lot of ventilation and the shoe does not breathe all that well.

figure2

note the rubber heel counter

The KD 2 features a full length cushlon midsole and forefoot zoom air.Cushlon is found mostly in running shoes where it is a lightweight,resilient foam that offers excellent impact protection.The zoom air unit in the forefoot allows for a low profile and responsive cushioning in the forefoot.I have always wondered why designers and Nike have insisted in putting the zoom air unit in the heel in certain shoes that have only one air bag.For the most part having only a zoom air unit in the heel and some type of foam in the forefoot has always left a little to be desired.During hard lateral cuts or change of direction most of the stress comes through the forefoot.Understandably the heel absorbs a lot of impact while simply running but the application of zoom air has always been best utilized in the forefoot,where it's low profile and responsiveness really come into play.All that being said heavier players who really pound their shoes might want to look elsewhere.Active players who do a lot of slashing and are looking for a responsive ride..look no further.

figure3
note the herringbone pattern on the medial side that provides traction crucial on quick changes of direction and cuts.

The outsole once again is a homage to Kevin's life and what is important to him.The outsole is a dangerous place to try to express your individuality.Fortunately for the KD 2,the designers did an excellent job incorporating that into the outsole without sacrificing performance.With a deep modified herringbone traction on the medial side for key pivot points,and plenty of surface area made of a soft rubber compound make for excellent traction on both hardwood and the dirty concrete tile.The midfoot strap holds the foot in place nicely.However those with wider feet may have some trouble with the strap not fitting properly.A phylon foot bucket keeps the heel in place and the additional overlays on the medial side help support the foot on hard cuts keeping the foot on the footbed.overall support is very good however with the shoe cut at a 5/8 height ankle support is marginal.

figure4

Overall I really enjoyed playing in the KD 2.Simple, straightforward and an excellent value.Again if you're looking for more cushioning in the heel then you might want to look elsewhere.But for what it is and for how much it is,the KD 2 is an excellent value and when put up against some of the higher priced signature shoes,The KD 2 more than hold's it's own.Based on what we saw in the 2010 NBA playoffs it looks like the best is yet to come for this budding superstar and should have no problems making new fans.

Comfort and Fit-4/5
Cushioning-3/5
Ankle Support-3/5
Traction-4.25/5
Overall-4.25/5

The lack of breathability hurt a little bit and those looking for more cushioning in the heel may want to look for something else.