Pros and cons: Air Jordan 6 Retro Review

  Retroactive Review

The 1st in a series of Championships. The 1st Championship can be so sweet. After fighting uphill to adjust, figure it out, lose, lose and get knocked down. Getting that first won can be so sweet. The real question is will you exhale? 1 championship is nice, but can you repeat your success now that you're at the top of the mountain. Can you handle success. Having the target on your back with everyone coming for your spot is a different beast. people are better at being at number 2 or 3. Many want the spot, but everyone isn't built for it or made to sustain it. Success has a price and it has to be paid upfront. 

While the Air Jordan 6 isn't my favorite I still have to give it its respect as the first Sneaker that Mike won a Championship in. The Cushioning is firm and the fit while not too bad wasn't that great. The design is beefier and had more structure than the Air Jordan 5 and carries over some of the previous design cues like  translucent rubber, lace locks, sculpted Ankle padding, ultra lite reflective (3M). Rich leathers & suedes/nubuck. A very structured Architectural take on a Basketball Sneaker with some nice performance feature at the time of its release. These Retro'd in 2000/2001. There was a Reverse infrared colorway that released as a sample. A friend of mine had a pair and they were fresh AF. the black/infrared is probably the cleanest color, but they're all solid.

 

Zoom Zoom: Nike Zoom BB series Review/perspective

 Retroactive review

My experience with the Zoom BB series 1 and 2 was quite a delight. these released back in 2007/2008 and were among some of the best Performance sneakers targeted for guards. at the time I was in the middle of design school but still some pick up basketball and the occasional men's leagues to stay in shape and be well rounded. While I've worn and been a fan of many if not all performance basketball sneakers for guards especially Nike Zoom anything and Alpha project releases. These zoom BB's were something I had to play in. While pairs like the Zoom flight 5, Nike Flightposite 1, Adidas Drose 1, Nike Zoom flight 2k3, Nike Zoom Drive, Nike zoom brave Series, Under Armour Curry 1, nike air Ultraflight and Nike Air Ultraposite. While I may experience any of these great silhouettes in their best form. I have still had the opportunity to get buckets, win games and drop some serious dimes in some of the best kicks the industry has had to offer. Let's take a look at these top performers from 2007 & 2008.

1. A borrowed picture of the first Zoom BB 1 that I played in. Great fit & cushioning

Worn and endorsed by Steve Nash at the time the Zoom BB because the next premier guard shoe to come to the market. If it was good for Nash was a top point guard in the league at the time a 50/40/90 player working through his back to back MVP seasons running the high octane D'antoni 7 seconds or less offense. high speed run and gun quick offense, more possessions more opportunities to score. Very fun to play (especially if you're in shape!) guards flourished in has offense and had plenty of personal as well as team success (Nash, Chris Duhon, Jeremy Lin, Jordan Farmar, James harden, Etc...) Nash endorsed many Nike basketball sneakers for puptempo point guards including the Nike Jet Flight, Varius Nike Flight sneakers, The Nike cradle rock low 1 & 2, the nike zoom Zoom, Nike Ultraflight, Nike trash talk series (made from recycled materials) and even had his own signature sneaker the Nike Zoom MVP which drew inspiration from one of his favorite running sneakers the Air max 90.

The 1st thing that caught my eyes was the clean simplicity of the upper. very clean and understated with minimal layers and planes the original colors feature aeith a thing suede, nubuck, leather, or durabuck upper with leather or patent leather toe box. There is an external heel clip for support at rear foot, a nice outrigger on the later side to prevent ankle sprains. and extra strip of material on the lateral side for support and A thin Stripe of TPU surrounding the perimeter. aside fro the perforations and Ankle bulge the Zoom BB 1 is a very clean, quite an unassuming looking shoe, but as always looks can be deceiving it's on the inside that counts.

2. Additional original color ways from the initial release. Notice how the use and placement of materials differ. The Obsidian, Blue, Pimento color way uses a mostly leather upper with nubuck on the toe box while the black/Grey/Yellow pair uses a Hairy Suede on the upper, smooth leather on the toe cap and an embossed leather on the overlay. slight differences, but the pairs I played in performed just as well. (Borrowed Pictures for teaching purposes only)

Cushioning: 8/10

Behind that thin Tpu wrapping the perimeter of the sneaker lies full length Zoom air right under your foot with just a soft strobel clothe and minimal insole between you and the unit. nothing new you say? It's been done before, but here's the thing under the zoom are unit isn't foam 9and there is it's super minimal) the unit sits on top of the rubber outsole. while Thile may not have been an Alpha project shoe the design teams, developers and engineers had to put in the extra man/brain power in making sure they could pull off effectively for performance durability and injury prevention (I'll get back to you on that.). my guess is the the depth/ height, durometer and design of the outsole/ pattern grooves that help to support the weight of the player throughout the actions of intense games with out causing injury, discomfort or product failure  (Zoom pooping/bottoming out, etc...) so my foot sat low in the shoe directly on top of the Zoom air unit. I felt close to the  court with and hard or sharp pain. The result one of the best court feels an experiences I've had in a zoom air based unit. It's simple, but simple works.

Comfort & fit. 8/10

As stated earlier the Zoom BB 1 came in a variety of upper materials the first pair I played in featured a smooth grey material that felt a think nubuck or microsuede difference from the Suede upper found on the Black, Grey, yellow pair 9I learned to be wary of suede builds on Performance Basketball sneakers particularly from Nike (Example the original Nike Zoom Huarache 2k4 featured a could of colorwayes with traditional suede/ micro suede uppers and they just did keep up their fit/support of much as the leather/synthetic leather uppers over time. regardless this pair worked for me Light, thin, breathable and form fitting the minimal use of padding a loud very little dead space within the shoe, creating very little unncessy movements that could lead to injury on of the best 1 to 1 fits that I've experienced with a sneaker using natural materials, flightposite and foamposite sneaker fit like no others, but these are up there. The external heel counter and midfoot support shank work to gather to keep your feet stable, locked in stable and supported, the height of the collar, spaces for your ankle bones, lining, sculpted insole, tpu lace loop at the base of the ankle, bootie construction and strategic use of materials and overlays allowed me to play and perform commutable the minimal side to side or front to back movement. when the may have been some front to back movement it was never drastic or major. Safe, comfortable, secure playing in the zoom bb 1 felt natural almost like a natural extension of my foot. It took some time to get used to, but evenly I played freely as if it wasn't even there.

Traction: 9/10

A high performing sneaker isn't much without traction especially if your a guard or a wing. Luckily the the Zoom BB 1 had that covered with a full length herringbone outsole. the spaces between the groove s are wide and deep enough that slipping shouldn't be an issue even on dustier courts. Even though most of the pattern is larger flat there is a pivot point at the ball of the with a sharp, peaked and tighter Herringbone pattern that altogether get the job done. the traction held up on clean and dusty courts and could even work outdoors although I wouldn't recommend it. The court feel is so great on these that you might not last to long on the unforgiving concrete ( it has no give). a cushy replacement insole could help but there many other sneakers that perform great outdoors at competitive prices & there are value chain, budget models and discounted out of season models that are perfect for outdoor hoops and won't break the bank. (thank me later).

3.Pictured left is the Zoom BB 1 Low Steve Nash PE. To the right is what looks like a regular retail pair of the Low top. I could find the low top at retail, but they look like not much has changed from the high/mid. unless the changed to cushioning from full length Zoom to something else then these should perform just as well with less coverage around the ankle. as long as the fit is consistent, then you should be fine. (Borrowed Pic)

Summary The Zoom BB 1 was a breath of fresh are to the performance would the fit and the performance really stand out. while smart and subtle use of materials bring it all together. Individually there is really nothing new on the sneaker (Tpu wrap, Heelclip/external tpu counter, ankle Bone grooves, zoom air, leather, suede , patent leather) however they are all structured a way that it's feels advanced so advanced that it feels natural. Side note, be careful with the Zoom BB 1 if your are heavy for your high or have have a history of foot injuries. the support structures work well and the cushioning is adequate, but injuries can still happen I got so used to the comfort and natural feel of the Zoom BB 1 one that I got a second pair (twice as nice lol) to play in this time the only real difference other than the color way was the material on this white, navy Sky blue color way was leather or synthetic. Not sure out it was that, because were newer or maybe I was little too heavy at the time for my height (Basketball players don't need to train/lift like bodybuilders, less can more and prevent injuries for over use, more on that at another time) either way I ended up injuring my foot (this may have been the 1st, second or third time) I don't blame the sneakers even though I play in them again. It just took it as a lesson not over train (Heavy weight power lifting/ training like a bodybuilder, with plyometerics while gaining weight (albeit solid muscle mass with low fat) and still playing hours of basketball wasn't the best strategy form injury prevention. while I did get me Desired results, running, jumping, dunking, scoring and slashing like a young DWade. I lived and I learned. again the Zoom BB 1 was a great model. Nike would later release a low top model that I didn't see at retail, but Steve Nash definitely had has share Pe's. This Sneaker was a great experience and luckily in 2025 your can find a great performing basketball sneaker from almost Any brand, Nike/Jordan are still pushing the envelope Adidas and Under Armour are constant players in the Space and Brands Like Puma have successfully reentered the space will many new, nimble and upcoming fighter brands have something offer to along with better offerings from Chinese brands like Anta & Li Ning and newer offerings from heritage brands Like Converse, New Balance & Asics, even Reebok returned to the party. Happy hooping! 

4. The Second pair of Zoom BB 1's that I purchased. the Materials were slightly different, but they performed just as well. (Borrowed Pic)

I enjoyed the Zoom BB 1 so much that when the Zoom BB 2 came out I had to get a pair. Some things stayed the same while others changed. Follow through for more.

1. The first colorer of the Zoom BB2 that released. Also the same color way that I purchased Definitely giving off Nike Zoom Air Jordan 11 vibes with the just Patent leather rand and contrasting black & white color blocking. Just need a splash Concord and we might have another comeback lol. (borrowed Picture)

The outsole and cushioning stayed the same. The Zoom BB doesn't have a traditional midsole or any midsole for that matter, but Design team at Nike kept what worked. The outsole, traction pattern, midfoot support and full length zoom air unit with clothe strobe stay which is a relief.

What Changed. The Upper pattern design is different. the Heel Deep clip is gone but the Zoom BB 2 still has a stiff internal Heel cup. although I liked the heel clip in the BB 1, the team may have had remove some elements to keep the cost low/ the same or lower for production.  The Upper is a combination of Smooth leather at the ankle color, full grain leather with large perforations on the upper, smooth leather on the toe and an overlay of patent leather wrapping around the perimeter just above the toes, sides and heel for added lateral stability. Have to keep the foot on the footbed especially since the Zoom BB2 like its predecessor does feature a traditional midsole. Not an an internal one.

Comfort & fit: 7/10

There's at least two sides to every story so let's start with the comfort. I'm not sure but ate wearing the Zoom BB 1, then the BB 2 and comparing it's the changes to the upper design are more than cosmetic wearing and playing in the BB 2 Over time the upper felt roomier. the was more padding in the BB2 than the original it might be a thin layer of foam between the upper and the lining. This didn't bother me too much as I'm sure based on the success of the BB 1 Nike decided to produced more of BB 2 to meet demand and cater to a larger audience. In doing this they like wanted to make the BB2 more accommodating for the different foot types hence the greater number of General release colorways and Team Bank Colorways for High School, College and Professional teams. These definitely were on the feet of many during March Madness ( Steph Liked them...)over time with wear the BB2 got roomier with the Stretching of the leather upper. The pantent leather helped slow this down, but It couldn't stop it. The removal of the external heel clip/counter and what suspect was the use of a wider more accommodating last than the original create a shoe that wasn't but just wasn't much better than it's predecessor. the added padding at the Ankle was nice and added padding in the upper not needed for me wasn't bad in terms of adding comfort, but to sacrifice fit which was on of the Strengths of the original for last and material deform quicker over time then the original to the point your fit are starting to move within the shoe negating the use of the upgraded ankle collar and padding, because fit within the rest of the shoe has become so inconsistent. Added comfort is great, but not at the cost of fit & performance!

Comfort is a 7,  while fit is a 5

Cushioning: 7/10

Cushioning is as good as the Original. Unfortunately the the Lack of proper fit and support from the upper didn't allow to feel as natural and free while playing in the BB2 the removal off the Tpu heel clip took away some of the support that locked foot in place while allowing the shoe to move with you instinctively. with the clip removed the the leathers of the upper stretched start lean over the TPU perimeter. I could feel me feet shifting slightly over the footbed around the heel lateral side off the fore foot another for me to keep mentally comparing diffrences between the BB2's and the popular BB1. Overall the cushioning was fine and responsive like the original, bit the other distraction s within the Sneaker didn't allow me to enjoy the experiences as much as I wanted too.

Traction: 8/10

While outsole and cushioning are identical as as I could tell. the the roomier fit that started to feel sloppy of time what just too much of a distraction really cut loose and and slashes much as I wanted to. It just wasn't the same the lack of lockdown and 1 to 1 fit made my footwear a little less direct. it didn't allow me to feel a light, springy and nimble on my feet as the BB 1 did. I wasn't even angry. I understand good business. Nike had the supply and wand to meet the demand of the many players that could an appreciate a shoe like the Zoom BB. Changing last, materials and remove some features to a larger audience allowed you to take a top performer to more of a general release. on a positive note changes made in the Zoom BB 2 did make it a great all around team shoe for a wider variety of players and positions. While the Zoom BB 1 was great for guards and perfect for lighter nimble point guards The Zoom BB2 could be and was worn be Guards Large and Small, Wings, Forwards and even some Center mostly on the College and some larger NBa Players were seen playing in the BB 2 on the perimeter in sometimes even in the paint. overall the traction worked and more player got to join in on the Zoom BB experience.

Summary, I liked the Zoom BB2 enough to purchase it based on Much great experience with the Zoom BB1. I also din't dislike them enough to return them, pawn them, resell them immediately or give Them away. I kept playing in them performing  in them , scoring, winning games, dropping dimes, kicking butt and taking names all the while have to except that while of the features that I enjoyed remain the same this was an entirely Near Zoom BB experience and I had to treat it as such. overall the positives outweigh the negatives the updated ankle collar adding padding was a nice touch, that could be more appreciated by larger players like wings, Forwards and Some Centers that want a nimble show that has enough room and support to prevent injuries while still being able to move quickly on the like Like your top ranked Point guard. Overall I didn't hate the Zoom BB 2 I just had to except that this was different experience all together. The changes, performance didn't improve enough for me to feel that this shoe is a worthy successor to the 1st version. It's less BB 2 or 2.0 and me BB too as in BB also. if the released at the same time side by side I'd pick the Zoom BB 1 9 out of 10 times. The 1 out 10 time that I would pick the BB2 *excuse be BB also is to look at it and and remind my self why I like the BB 1 so much. all jokes aside it's a matter of preference if you're a light, nimble and and agile guard chose the BB 1. If your a player any other position or even a larger guard that has to pass, score team lead, defend, and/or slash score and don't mind a sneaker that doesn't as well and may or may not last you the entire season including playoffs and post season tournaments then take a shot a t the BB2 It's real not too bad as a team shoe.

Like the Zoom BB 1 the Zoom BB2 also released as a low top. I'm not sure if the full length Zoom remains consistent from the mid to the low the could have used foam filler to take up the space while adding a heel or forefoot zoom air unit. Sometimes Companies Cut back some performance features when a high/mid top model features a low top version. Some maybe believe that the buyer may use them for more casual use than performance like the original Mid or high top. either way they existed. Steve Nash wore them again in several Pe Versions in Cluding his popular trash talk versions that reused/recycled factory upper scrapes and nike regrind rubber from used used pairs that could and would have easily rotted in a land fill waiting to biodegrade whenever at these help a little bit in terms of Sustainability repurpose products and materials after their initial product life cycle. Go Green!

Other Zoom BB models 

there were some samples of what could have been the nike zoom BB 3. It looks like the design went back to what work by using the same set up up as the Zoom BB 1. This new Zoom BB 3 probably went back to the original last and added more layers to the Upper. While the External heel clip/Counter isn't back on this model it still looks more in line with the original. the TPU support wrap and outsole looks the same and hopefully the full length remains just as bouncy. I didn't anything about these dropping in the states around the original release of these picks but they probably made Team Bank versions of these for amateur and Pro teams these were most likely an Overseas (Asia) Release. Enjoy the found/borrowed pics of the Zoom BB 3.

Hyperfuse became is big deal upon it's introduction on the Nike Zoom Hyperfuse basketball shoe in 2010. A great new manufacturing process involving the heat press fusing of multiple layers of different materials into a one piece upper the bring together the best properties of all the materials into a strong, durable, form fitting upper that has structure, ventilation, Zoned areas of added protection, minimal stretch, and longevity

BO Knew, so I got the shoes: Nike Air trainer 3 retro review

 Retroactive Review

Bo Knew Multiple Sports. After Jackie Robinson, Bo Jackson was one of the Greatest American Athletes and was able to play Multiple Professional Sports Well. Along with Deion Sanders, Baseball & Football were his domain of Dominance. For every Sport there is Training a for multipart Athletes there is Cross-Training. In your training regardless of the sport there is: running, sprints, track work, plyometrics, Weight lifting, resistance training, stretching/mobility training, recovery, Sport Specific movements, and training and practice for the rules and goals of said specific sport. in the 80's training and cross training became popular. Reebok (we have to give Reebok their credit) was dominant. Aerobics was the name of the game and Reebok was leading the charge. Athletes Running, weight lift and do court work and need a shoe that can handle the needs of all three areas. Enter tinker Hatfield and the Nike Trainer 1. A simple solution adopted around tennis player John McEnroe with lightweight, flexible sole, outrigger and forefoot Strap to cover running, Sprinting, lifting, and lateral movements. Bo Jackson would later be the focus and Spokesperson for this cross training Category. With Models like the trainer SC series, Trainer 2 and Trainer 3 among others Nike aimed to give you 1 sneaker that can help you train like Bo. 

Being Picky can pay off. One thing about NYC youth was having style and making anything we touched cool. Other cities Boston, DC, Miami, LA, Atlanta, and others had there own style and take on music, footwear, fashion and more, but NY kids took the cake (I'm biased lol). I gamed a pair of Trainer 3's for the last game of the season (look fresh, play fresh lol). The trainers had a nice leather upper (yes Leather & genuine leather was the standard back in the day, thankfully we have come a long way with synthetics, man made skins, textiles, Knits, natural fibers, hemp, plant based fibers and that reduce our need for Animal Skins. The trainer 3 also stepped it up with molded TPU (heat formed plastic parts) along the heel, ankle and forefoot strap to keep you locked in and stable for your powerful movements. A thin polyurethane midsole and visible heel air sole took care of the impact protection while flex grooves in the rubber outsole helped natural movement when running and sprinting.

Training Sneakers have come a long way in terms of cushioning, materials, design & aesthetic. The 80's pushed the trend, the 90's took it to another level and the 2000's added more bells and whistles. From the minimum to the Max and Back. It will be interesting to see what the next great training/Cross training sneaker looks like. The trainer 3 Retro was a fun sneaker to play and train in. It was good enough for Bo and it was good enough for me. On to the next ones.

Rodman, Barkley, JP & PG: Nike basketball sneaker reviews

Retroactive Review 

Loud, Eccentric, Brash, colorful, colorful language, quiet, reserved, let’s his game do the talking, champion, lost in the finals, hasn’t been to the finals yet, *designed signature sneakers, designed signature sneakers worn in the finals, has designed (and currently designs) for a champion. Grabbed a whole lotta Rebounds, was known for getting rebounds too, rebounding is part of his game, scoring and defending while looking smooth is more of his claim to fame, and the Playoffs…, ironically one guy here has designed signature product/ products inspired by there previous digs, mashed some together or a part of or close to the team that designed for the other.

If you haven’t guessed it these reviews are on signature sneakers and modern designs of signature designs worn by Dennis Rodman, Charles Barkley, & Paul George and Nike Designer Jason Pietre for his modern versions or Rodman and Barkley Signatures, mash ups, remixes and other signature Basketball designs that preceded the Paul George Nike Signature line design lead by Tony Hartman.

So let’s get Started: Dennis Rodman: different. While his outfits, hair and lifestyle fit many of the words described earlier, in person he seemed quiet, calm and perceptive, a stark contrast from what we saw throughout his NBA career. Just as unique as he was on and off the court his sneaker fit the bill. From his time in Detroit Rodman was a pest for the opposing team on the glass he was dominant, on the perimeter he was picking your pocket and deflecting passes, in the paint he was harassing you mentally, physically and maybe emotionally. From Reebok, to Nike and Converse The Worms Sneaker game was as unique as his personality.

First up for me was a pair of Darwin lite a lighter retro alternate of the Nike Air Darwin an early Durable Sneaker promoted my Rodman and his first unofficial Signature sneaker with Nike. This version of the Darwin that I had was very similar to the original Darwin except the heel air unit was encapsulated instead visible and the rubber wrapping the front of show was lower with less stitching than the original. The upper, midsole & outsole design was largely the same. The Darwin lite released in the early 2000’s as a park with colorways and merch (tees & connecting to historic Basketball parks and gyms in the U.S.  Venice Beach, CA, St. Cecilia’s in Michigan, Dyckman 155th Rucker Park, and my current personal favorite the Cage West 4th were I would later earn a nickname for myself decades later. 

The Darwin lite low:

Cushioning: 7/10

No zoom, but full length phylon midsole with large volume air unit in the heel. The Original Darwin released in 1994 had a polyurethane midsole more dense, but this version got the job done. I was a lighter guard and these white & silver low tops got the job done as I worked on my game and worked to get better in those spring and summer months

Traction 9/10

The Darwin & Darwin lite share the same chaotic and aggressive outsole pattern that works well indoors, but was made for the asphalt. a super aggressive rotated Herringbone pattern with sharp edges, deep grooves, plenty of spacing and a basketball for the pivot point it just worked. Whether I was on the perimeter or in the paints (guards have to grab boards too lol) the traction on the outsole got me were I wanted to be with no loss of grip or sliding for the duration.

Comfort. 8/10

Some pairs of the Original Darwin featured Canvas and leather uppers, the canvas on the originals was either coated and/made of a really strong material because it is on the outer overlay. The Darwin lites featured either a combination of full grain leather and nubuck or full grain, synthetic and/or synthetic leather. I’m to sure which leather was used on my low tops, but they was soft, lightweight, breathable and durable. The Darwin lites featured either low featured a simple breathable lining while the mid foot, forefoot and tongue featured large perms to keep my puppies cool in the summer heat. The Darwin lites featured either as feature a stiff tpu shank in the midfoot that protect my young arches and allowed to drive and attack the basket a little more aggressive during those runs and practices.

I have yet to see the Darwin lites retro again. The Darwin mids in original form have returned a couple of times and the Original low tops have been reissued mostly as Sumpreme collabs. The reverse swoosh started by Rodman and the Darwin and carried through the N’destruckt Series and Nike basketball has become popular with Travis Scott Cactus Jack collabs. Sometimes it’s good to be different and have your own style. It takes some courage to not be a follower and and to march at the beat of your own drum, but before you know it you’ve become a trendsetter. For some even an icon.

Tagging in Designer Jason Petrie he has designed some modern interpretations of the Air Darwin like the Air Max Darwin 360, Nike Air Barwin (An revised are Darwin withe some Barkley influences shared with some of the Barkley inspired designs for Amare Stoudemire at the the the. The Air Barwin used the same Barkley inspired soles found on the Amare worn Air Force one Max Stat and updated version of the Air Force max CB originally worn by sir Charles. A whole lotta overlap withers popular forwards. Onto the next review.

Sometimes you just have to evolve. Just like the Air max 180 shake evolve a 2012 update of the Popular Rodman signature sneaker Shake N’destrukt from the popular and rugged N’destrukt series lead by Rodman and others like Alonzo Mourning. Tougher, durable and made to handle the abuse of outdoor basketball. Others include the Rattle, Roll, and worm N’destrukt all worn or endorsed by Rodman. 

The original Shake was like a tougher, beefed Air Jordan with just enough quirks to keep it interesting. Some pairs featured full grain leather, nubuck, patent leather, durabuck, ballistic Canvas or some combination of them. The outsole was just as sharp and aggressive as the Darwin. The midsole house a large volume visible heel air unit with a thick PU sole for impacts. Asymmetrical lacing with a medial strap really set these off with the large swoosh across the ribbed lace cover and bubbled “air” branding on the heel. Funky, fresh, eccentric, unique, different.

Fast forward with another update from Designer JP and we have an update in the Air make 180 shake evolve. The upper is very much the same with lacing, wrapped upper, strap and mudguard, this time using more materials that fit the Nike Sportswear category than 90’s asphalt these sneakers wear made to turn heads especially in the grey/charcoal/white/volt colorway. The volt really pops off with this color blocking the the reflective material is a nice touch. JP carried over the 180 “pork chop air bag first introduced into the Lebron 8 P.S. and later used in the  Lebron 9, Lebron 9 elite and what would become the Nike air Penny 5 (also out of Nike sportswear). A thick phylon midsole replaces the PU of the original. Traction is supported a slightly less chaotic, but just as aggressive herringbone outsole with thick grooves that can grip out door courts. 

The Nike Air max Shake evolve 180 seems like more of a lifestyle play than an outdoor juggernaut like it’s predecessor especially given choice of materials, soft felt nubuck on the overlay and the 3m reflective mesh like upper would never last out doors and that 180 bag is way too vulnerable with proper foam housing the unit like the original. While these are better suited for the hardwood, there are/were way too many great performance basketball kicks that blew these out of the water. Compared to its rugged predecessor this version is soft. 

Luckily they’re comfortable especially with the softer phylon midsole and plush insole. Buy it you want to connect to the style of the original with a lifestyle twist for casual wear and the occasional indoor game or two. Forget about it you’re for a comparable modern successor to the original, this ain’t it, luckily there many great Performers that are on sale or offer better performance and a better price. To each his own, buy what you like. Onto the next. 

The Round Mound of Rebound keeps inspiring even if he wasn’t a role model. He wasn’t a role player either from his time in Philly to his MVP and Finals appearance in Phoenix and his last runs in Houston Chuck was unapologetically himself, like Rodman he was a 1 of 1. He made many sneakers popular with his playing style just as much as his personality. From the Air Force Series (2, Alpha. 180, Air Force Max, Air Force Max CB), to his own signature line ( Air Max 2 CB 94, Nike Air CB 34, Nike Air Max CB 34, Nike Air Super CB, Nike CB 4, Nike Air CB4 II) and others like the tuned force Max. He even sported the Air Jordan 14 (Candy Canes) does his last run with the Rockets. 

Bonus: Can't Forget about the Mash ups and Posites!

Zoom Sharkley (Rodman Shake N'destruckt + Barkley Air Max 2 CB 94 By JP)

Zoom Shakalaid (Sharkley + Air Raid)

Air Alphalution: Air Alpha force update with visible heel zoom

Barkley Posite

Chuck Posite

Enter Paul George:

Paul George is always striving to be better, always pushing to do more. The ultimate two-way player, PG is as relentless on defense as he is on offense. To be dominant at both ends of the court he needs to be comfortable no matter what direction he’s playing in. Designed with Nike’s innovative React Foam technology, the PG 6 gives George the cushioning he needs to last all four quarters. Lightweight and responsive, it’s the perfect shoe for anyone determined to raise their game.

PG 1: unlocked forefoot Zoom, flywire strap. Low cut. Inspired by his love for Fishing

PG 2: unlocked forefoot Zoom, alternate forefoot support. Low cut. Reverse Swoosh

PG 2.5: unlocked forefoot Zoom, alternate strap. Low cut. Reverse Swoosh

PG 3: unlocked forefoot Zoom, alternate forefoot support. Low cut. alternate collar shape

PG 4: full length top loaded dot welded air unit, mesh upper with support webbing/straps and lace up micro mesh outer shell/collar, Fuse forfeit support. Low cut. 

PG 5: full length top loaded dot welded air unit, mesh upper with synthetic leather forefoot support rand, Lateral & medial midsole supports, lateral outrigger, TPU support shank.Kobe 9 inspired traction. Low cut. 

PG 6: Mesh/textile upper with synthetic forefoot toe cap and integrated mid foot support piece. React Midsole. 

Jack be nimble, jack be quicker: Nike Zoom Hyperfuse 2011

                  

 Great fit + sharp traction+ responsive cushioning= a great combination for speed and quickness. While the original hyperfuse brought something new to the game in a tight breathable and fun package. The 2011 hyperfuse found a way to make things even better in a new, but familiar package.

I’ll be the first to tell you for a design/aesthetic stand point I like weird. I like different. I like unique looking designs that solve problems, challenge conventional norms and push the envelope on form, function, materials and performance. Products, designs, & innovations that standout from the completion and make things even better. The original hyperfuse did that with a new material: Hyperfuse. Traditional basketball sneakers and many sneakers/shoes altogether were made of traditional materials like Leather, suede, nubuck, canvas, patent leather, mesh and so forth. These materials over time were combined, layered, stretched, woven, combined and so on until some took a chance to ask, explore, try and challenge the current norms to innovate. Like the use of patent leather used on the Air Jordan 11 not just as a visual element, but as a performance material to maintain fit and keep the foot on the foot bed or the ballistic nylon mesh also used on the Upper of the 11 to provide breathability and a better/closer fit as well durability. The uses of natural leathers  changed to synthetic leathers because the lack of stack with helped the sneaker retain it’s shape/fit longer fast forward and now have the innovation a fuse uppers which solve multiple issues in a signgular whole package that is strong, light, breathable, thin, flexible and well fitting. This is done by fusing/heat pressing multiple layers of material that all serve different purposes into a single upper and assembling everything together in a fast form fitting product that ready to perform with only a couple of wears. 

In a fuse uppers the first layer is used as the backing. It usually is structured and has cut outs at breaks within the pattern that create windows for breathability. This is the layer that sits closest to your foot. The inner most layer of the shoe. Next upper is the mesh packaging. Their are different types of polyester mesh such as the jersey style mesh used in last years original hyperfuse sneaker or the diagonal net mesh used in this years 2011. This layer allows for the breathability while providing full coverage and support for fuse areas that don’t have cut outs like the medial toe area, ankle area (in the original), and heel. Finally is the top most layer made of polyurethane or PU skin/skins. This layer provides durability texture and finish. This is the outer most shell of the upper. Now that all of the layers are stacked they are vacuum sealed tight. No Bubbles! ( at least not in your uppers lol) and heated/pressed until all of the layers are essentially FUSED into one seamless piece. Then the upper is stitched together, given a heel counter as well as other necessities and assembled like a traditional performance sneaker. Voila! You’ve been hyperfused. What great is that you get the best of many different materials all into one lightweight, durable, breathable, form fitting, strong, slow stretching, thin, and futuristic package. This is definitely a step about natural materials like traditional materials like natural leather & nubuck and the next level of synthetic man-made materials that don’t use animal hides and are slow to stretch. Now if it can be made to be sustainable with green and biodegradable eco friendly materials, we might have something. But does it perform? Onto the review.

Comfort & Fit 9/10

Like last years initial launch the hyperfuse (2010) provided a strong and unique fit unlike any basketball sneaker before it. The mid ( I throughly enjoyed the low top version.) featured a one pice mesh based bootie that fit well around the foot while keeping the tongue connected and irritating seams away from the foot. Good. The back half of the sneaker featured a nice amount of padding including the ankle area which featured a few layers of solid fuse for fir and form. The midfoot and forefoot of the sneaker was light, strong, breathable and flexed without hindering and natural flex or movement needed on the court. The stiff upper material kept the foot upright within the shoe and allowed little to no side to side movement with only a minimal amount of front to back movement. There is also extra amounts of fuse on the medial side of the toe back to protect from toe drags and contact made with that area, someone stepping on your foot, toe drags, etc. the 2011 version made some slight changes in the mesh style, fuse pattern and ankle area overlay. While the ankle area may be different from last years version. The Hyperfuse still provided great ankle support as the Hyperfuse pattern surrounded the area around the ankle with extra layers while allowing freedom of the ankle itself like a traditional Basketball Huarache sneaker like the Air Jordan 7 or Huarache 2k4 & 2k5. This time mesh covers the ankles. The fit is also added with a solid and rigid heel counter just like last year. It still works. 

Cushioning 8/10

One thing that charities over was the tooling. The 2010 & 2011 have the same Midsole and outsole with only a slight difference that I call an upgrade for a couple of reasons. The Hyperfuse 2011 still uses the same lightweight phylon midsole and bouncy forefoot Zoom are unit as last years version. There is enough foam in the heel to work well even without a heel air unit. The design of the midsole allow it to compress as needed to have a decent movement on the court the heel to toe drop and fit of the upper make you want to play more on your forefoot and the shoe makes you want to sprint down the court and the bouncy responsive zoom air has you cover. The upgrade is the lateral stability as the 2011 midsole features a protruding extension of the midsole that provides more lateral support while helping to keep you from sliding off of the footbed on slashes and cuts and even has a super cool iridescent swoosh. It makes the shoe like different, almost ALIENNNNN lol. Again, I like different, I like weird. This was a welcomed feature on this years versions as some players did have instances is losing forwards the edge of the midsole or over. 

Traction 9/10

This traction just works. It worked so nice that they had to use it twice lol. The pattern stays the same. Same great peaked herringbone. Same midfoot support shank for torsional rigidity and same heel impact force dispersion design for heel landings and strikes.  Still works, still good. 

In Summary,

The Hyperfuse 2011 is a subtle successor to last years models with only minor changes to the upper pattern and midsole design that helped to improve some areas that the 2010 fell short at which mainly some lack of lateral, support/sliding off of the food bed. Although the changes are subtle again the combination of the iridescent swoosh and stance give this shoe an almost alien look. Sported by some of the newest and craftiest young point guards such as Rajon Rondo, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden. Just like last year the Hyperfuse is light, breathable, durable and should hold up well over time. It great for your indoor runs and leagues. If you add a more cushioned insole these make the perfect outdoor bball sneaker for the summer! Buy them if you want a light, strong, durable, breathable sneaker with an upper that will last with a responsive cushion and sharp traction that’s stable for the hardwood and the asphalt. A great sneaker especially at the price point.