Adidas Harden Vol. 9
Pros
- Wonderful containment and lock-in feel
- Bouncy and dynamic ride
- Excellent impact protection in the heel
- Really durable overall
- Quite breathable
- A solid performer
- Solid traction
- Pretty comfortable
Cons
- Minimal forefoot cushioning
- On the heavier side
- Picks up dust
- Snug fit
Key Features
- Unique lacing system offers a secure fit and enhanced style.
- Low-cut silhouette allows for an unrestricted full range of motion.
- Midfoot band provides locked-down support and stability.
- International products may differ from local items in fit, age ratings, and labeling.
Specifications
- Sole material: Rubber
- Closure type: Lace-Up
The Vol. 9 is a reinforced version of the already reliable Vol. 8, making it suitable for athletes seeking stability and support during basketball activities. This model retains a durable yet breathable structure that enhances containment while providing noteworthy performance. Our wear tests revealed its responsive nature, offering significant bounce during rebounds and jump shots.
While it is the lightest option among its peers, the Vol. 9 still falls on the heavier side within its category. The shoe delivers a solid lock-in feel, complemented by effective traction, which makes it particularly advantageous for quick guards. However, the weight could be considered a drawback for some users.
Adidas D.O.N. Issue 7
Pros
- Amazing outsole traction
- Fantastic lateral stability and support
- Wide platform with reliable outriggers
- Balanced court feel and cushioning
- Feels a bit softer underfoot
- More flexible forefoot adds agility
- Predictable medium-width fit
Cons
- Gained weight (but still average)
- Frail inner mesh
- Lacks breathability
Key Features
- Regular fit: This shoe is designed to provide a comfortable yet snug fit for various foot shapes.
- Slip-on design: The easy pull-on closure allows for quick access and convenience without compromising fit.
- Textile upper: Constructed from lightweight textile materials, providing breathability and flexibility.
- Textile lining: Ensures comfort against your skin, reducing irritation during play.
- Lightstrike Pro cushioning: Engineered for enhanced responsiveness and lightweight support, enabling swift movement across the court.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in USA and Imported.
- Sole material: Rubber for optimal grip and durability.
- Outer material: Textile enhances breathability and weight efficiency.
- Closure type: Pull-On for ease of wear.
The Adidas D.O.N. Issue 7 is designed for basketball players seeking enhanced stability and comfort. This model maintains significant ankle support while offering improved forefoot flexibility and a softer midsole foam.
Lab tests have verified that the Issue 7 retains the tacky outsole traction found in its predecessor, ensuring reliable performance during aggressive movement on the court. Overall, this shoe presents notable value for money with no increase in price compared to earlier models.
One drawback to consider is that while the shoe excels in stability and traction, some users may find the fit slightly snug depending on personal preference.
Adidas Anthony Edwards 2
Pros
- Significant improvement in energy return
- Fanstastic stability and ankle support
- Balanced impact protection and court feel
- Predictable medium-width fit
- Efficient power transfer through stiff sole
- Decent upper breathability
- Excellent durability
Cons
- Major traction downgrade
- Heavier than average
- Not for outdoor play
Key Features
- Made with durable polyester for enhanced longevity during active play.
- Lace-up closure provides a secure fit, making it easier for kids to put on and take off the shoe independently.
- Rubber sole ensures excellent traction and grip, necessary for quick movements on the basketball court.
- Stylish design inspired by Anthony Edwards, appealing to young fans of the sport.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole material: Rubber
- Outer material: Polyester
- Closure type: Lace-Up
- Available size: 3.5 US
The Adidas Anthony Edwards 2 is best suited for players seeking a balance of performance and durability on the court. It builds upon the successful legacy of its predecessor while introducing notable improvements, such as enhanced energy return.
However, this version experiences a regression in outsole traction compared to the first iteration, which may affect stability during aggressive movements. Additionally, the shoe has a heavier build, which could influence overall comfort for some users.
Despite these drawbacks, the AE 2 remains a reliable option for all-around play, offering significant cushioning and support for various playing styles.
Adidas Dame 9
Pros
- Incredibly stable
- Wonderful lockdown and secure feel
- Decently responsive ride
- Great impact protection
- Fantastic lateral containment
- Very comfortable
- No heel slippage
- Good traction on clean courts
- Good for wide feet
Cons
- On the heavier side
- Picks up dust
Key Features
- Signature Shoes: Created in collaboration with Damian Lillard, these shoes embody his playing style.
- Snug Fit: Adjustable laces ensure a secure fit, giving you confidence in every step.
- Lightweight Comfort: The synthetic upper is not only durable but also light, minimizing fatigue during long games.
- Responsive Cushioning: The adidas Lightstrike technology offers exceptional cushioning while maintaining responsiveness.
- High Traction: The rubber outsole provides excellent grip, crucial for making quick moves on the hardwood.
Specifications
- Origin: Imported
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Rubber
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
The Dame 9 is a standout option among Adidas basketball shoes, particularly suited for players seeking effective shock absorption. This performance characteristic has been verified through both extensive wear tests and lab analyses.
Despite a stack height lower than average at 27.8/20.1 mm (heel and forefoot), the cushioning provided by its Lighstrike foam is notable. Our shock absorption test yielded an above-average score of 105 SA, indicating its capability to soften landings effectively.
The impact protection of the Dame 9 is complemented by a midfoot shank that enhances structural support. Additionally, the shoe features high torsional rigidity rated at 5/5 and heel counter stiffness at 4/5, contributing to a secure yet comfortable ride.
However, players looking for a lightweight and agile experience may find the Dame 9 lacking in this aspect. Weighing in at 14.71 oz/417g, it is heavier than the average basketball shoe.
Adidas Trae Young 3
Pros
- Superb stability with Torsion System
- Reliable heel containment
- Balanced impact protection and court feel
- Incredible traction on indoor courts
- Amazingly durable outsole
- Comfortably padded interior
- Wide-foot friendly
- Removable insole
- Eye-catching clean design
Cons
- Quite heavy
- Upper lacks durability
- Poor grip on dusty courts
Key Features
- Basketball shoes tailored for fans of Trae Young.
- MESH UPPER: Offers improved breathability and lightweight feel.
- TEXTILE LINING: Ensures a soft and comfortable experience.
- CUSHIONED COMFORT: Lightweight midsole for optimal support and comfort.
- HIGH TRACTION: Rubber outsole engineered for excellent grip on various surfaces.
Specifications
- Origin: Made in the USA or Imported.
- Sole Material: Rubber for durability.
- Outer Material: Mesh for breathability.
- Closure Type: Lace-Up for a secure fit.
The Adidas Trae Young 3 is a notable choice for players seeking exceptional stability and durability in their basketball footwear. With impressive features including a resilient outsole and a soft midsole, this shoe stands out among Adidas offerings.
The shoe’s wide platform and rigid base work cohesively to enhance stability. Our laboratory measurements indicated the platform width at the forefoot is 122.2 mm, compared to an average of 113.8 mm, while the heel measures 105.1 mm, exceeding the average of 91.5 mm. In torsional rigidity tests, this shoe achieved a perfect score of 5.
The outsole demonstrates excellent durability for outdoor conditions. A measurement from our HC durometer rated it at 88.0, surpassing the average rating of 81.7, indicating high resistance to abrasion. Additionally, results from our Dremel test revealed only 0.7 mm of damage, well below the average potential of 1.1 mm.
Comfort is another significant aspect, with a cushioning system that delivers a soft underfoot experience. Our HA durometer measured the cushioning at 22.5, noticeably softer than the average of 26.4. This softness contributes positively to the overall comfort level during play.
However, the outsole's grip may require improvement, as it tends to be overly sensitive to dust, necessitating frequent cleaning. This drawback could impact performance during intense gameplay.
Adidas Forum Low
Pros
- Ageless look
- Grab-and-go style
- True blue retro
- Supportive
- Well-cushioned
- Not cheaply made
- Durable upper
- Affordable
Cons
- Heavier than average
- Stiff (break-in needed)
Key Features
- Rubber Sole: Provides excellent traction and durability, making them ideal for various surfaces.
- Canvas Outer Material: Offers breathability and a lightweight feel for all-day comfort.
- Lace-Up Closure: Ensures a secure fit, allowing you to adjust the tightness as needed.
- Low Top Design: Adds a classic look that pairs well with different styles.
- Non-Water Resistant: Best suited for dry conditions; not recommended for wet environments.
Specifications
- Sole Material: Rubber
- Outer Material: Canvas
- Closure Type: Lace-Up
- Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant
- Rating: 4.6 based on 440 reviews
The Adidas Forum Low is an ideal choice for those seeking a stylish off-court sneaker with retro appeal. Its design not only captivates with its nostalgic aesthetic but also offers notable support and comfort.
This sneaker features the original 80s silhouette, complete with an old-school velcro strap that enhances both style and overall stability. In our tests, it achieved scores of 4/5 for torsional rigidity and heel counter stiffness, indicating a structured feel that remains comfortable. The model demonstrated 21.9% greater flexibility than average in our bend test, further contributing to its comfort during wear.
The durability of the Forum Low matches that of more expensive hardwood models. It earned 5/5 and 4/5 ratings in our toebox and heel padding durability assessments, showcasing its real leather construction, which is impressive given its price point.
However, it is important to note that the Adidas Forum Low is heavier than typical sneakers, weighing in at 16.40 oz/465g. This weight may be a consideration for some users looking for lighter footwear options.