Jimmer!
Traction – Wide herringbone is spread out along the midsole which looks like it will perform pretty well. The center pods worry me a bit but from a front to back standpoint they shouldn’t disappoint. I’m remaining optimistic about the traction surface overall since the one thing I’ve learned over the years is that you really can’t judge the pattern based on looks anymore. I’ve been underwhelmed with patterns that looked great and surprised by surfaces that look less than ideal.
Cushion – Just from trying them on, I can really only feel the cushion in the heel… which feels amazing might I add. I’ve never used D3O foam cushion before but it felt pretty similar to Micro G so I’m excited to see how it plays overall.
Below is just some info from the brand explaining what D3O is and what it can do.
Material – Another company that has replicated Nike’s Fuse. Not too impressed but as long as it works then I’ll be happy. I love the mesh all over the place. It looks like a runner but with the build of a hoop shoe… this is what I’m expecting from the Kobe VIII but with a lot more reinforcement – hopefully. The uppers are quite soft though so support is a concern.
Fit – They fit true to size and once laced up they feel extremely secure. I love a good fitting sneaker and these fit great right out the gate… I just hope that flimsy synthetic overlay is supportive enough.
Ventilation – This is pretty obvious… they look like they’ll breath just fine.
Support – Like I said above, the upper does concern me a bit. The midfoot felt locked into place, the heel is reinforced and the toe has a TPU plate for reinforcement… those three sections will likely provide almost all of the support… will it be enough is what I’m anxious to fine out. Torsional support could also pose an issue as you can see in the image.
Overall, I have no clue what to expect. The last shoe I played in with this flimsy of an upper was the adidas Crazy Light (first one) and I’ve never used D3O cushion before. These could underperform immensely or they could be the wild card of the year.
wow did not expect you to pick up Spaldings! Next one and1?s haha try all the underdog brands
Glad you pick one up Sir! I was going to ask you to do a review on Ball’N shoes which also feature D3O cushioning. I personally love the D3O cushioning. Can’t wait to learn how the Spalding perform!
Spalding Splash would’ve been a better name for Jimmer shoes. Slashing is not something I see Jimmer doing on a regular basis hahahaha. Interesting shoe nonetheless. I wanna see how they perform.
Jimmer!!!! I always like that you take on the the reviews that other sites won’t. I’m really curious to hear how these play.
I somehow forgot that brand that some people are talking about. the one that Javale uses. not sure if you are going to make a review of it as well, or the Reebok ES22 which I am interested in for a change. kinda missed those hoop shoes with that kind of look.
Jimmer! Nice to see that Jimmer’s Spalding’s are going to be tested.
NW – if the d30 is the same make-up as the Ball’N shoes they compress and absorb impact great. I didn’t get much bounce or feedback like the Micro G – more like the new adidas foams.
Who knows what could happen! Maybe because of the secure fit and lockdown…. it will remain supportive like the Soldier 6! then again….. too risky to buy that now until Mr. Nightwing is done with the review! You should try out those Threats! Or will Spalding be known good only on Basketballs? I’m excited about this!