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Spanish review
Jordan Zion 2
The Jordan Zion 2 is different than its predecessor. Some changes are upgrades and some are downgrades.
Colorway: Half Blue/Pink Prime-Deep Royal Blue
Release Date: July 2022
Price: $120
Zion Williamson hasn’t played for the New Orleans Pelicans since May 4, 2021, when he had a stat line of 23 PTS, 12 REB, 7 AST, and 4 STL. That’s an excellent game for a second-year player. This is the potential of Zion if he stays healthy. His second shoe, the Jordan Zion 2 on the other hand is a confirmed beast, and one of the best basketball shoes of the year. It features elite elements like traction and the cushion.
The Jordan Zion 2 is also featured in Best Jordan Basketball Shoes, Best for Small Forwards, Best for Power Forwards, Best Traction Basketball Shoes, Best for Ankle Support, and Most Comfortable.
Traction
The traction is the best aspect and our favorite part of the shoe. It’s multi-directional and covers you on all movements. There are very few shoes that are going to bite as well as these, especially on lateral movements. There are levels to traction performance, and the Zion 2 is at the top-most level. Just note that about an hour of break-in time is needed for peak performance.
The grip is good outdoors, but it isn’t going to last long because the traction pattern is shallow. For as long as it lasts, though, you’re going to get an excellent experience.
Weartesters en Español: Zion 2 as an outdoor option
Cushion
The cushion comprises an injected Phylon midsole with a heel Air Strobel unit and a standard forefoot Zoom Air unit. The heel does its job of impact protection, though don’t expect anything as plush as the Jordan Zion 1. The forefoot, however, is lower to the ground than you’d expect. The Jordan Zion 2 may have been made for a big player like Zion, but it will cater to the average wing and guard.
Materials
In one word: cheap. The front half is a mesh that allows for flexibility, while the rest of the shoe comprises poor-quality synthetics. The heel portion is incredibly disappointing because, although it has some cool graphics, it’s just felt. The tongue is a nylon material similar to the shoe’s inner lining.
Fit
We recommend true to size for everybody. Length-wise it’s perfect, and the width is accommodating enough for wide-footers. Narrow-footers also don’t need to worry because the forefoot strap works well to contain the feet.
The heel area is well-sculpted, though the Achilles pillows didn’t feel like pillows. The area where the rubber comes up the side of the midsole around the lateral midfoot can create some pinching. Watch out if that’s a typical trouble spot for your foot.
Support
This is the aspect of the shoe that feels like it was made for Zion. It all starts with the wide base and the outriggers. If you remove the insoles, you can see the shank plate through the Air strobel heel unit. The rubber that comes up from the midsole adds more stability. If you get the right size, the Zion 2’s support will not disappoint you.
Overall
The Jordan Zion 2 will leave many satisfied with its performance on-court. There’s not much to complain about. This is a great option if you enjoy a low-to-the-ground, supportive basketball shoe. If you don’t mind the cheap materials and are willing to break in that traction, you’ll be ready to go. Just don’t expect to be dunking like Zion Williamson as soon as you put these on.
Initial Impressions
What’s in the video?
In the video, Chris provides detailed information from all the usual categories, providing the in-depth information you need. He supplies expert-level opinions on the materials, cushioning, traction, support, and fit. Here’s some of what he discusses:
- One of the best-looking designs
- Beastly traction
- Muted forefoot Zoom Air with half Air Strobel
- Injected Phylon-like foam
- Potential torsion bar issues
- Influences from other Jordans
- Disappointing felt upper
- Mesh toe box
- Sizing recommendations
Let us know your opinion on the Zion 2 in the comment section below or on YouTube or Twitter.
How to Buy the Jordan Zion 2
The Jordan Zion 2 is available now for $120 at Nike and at DSG. You can also purchase the PF version for various prices on eBay.
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