Nike Hyperset 2: One of Nike’s Best Basketball Shoes is a Volleyball Shoe

First off, yes, volleyball shoes can be used to play basketball (and vice versa). Shoes meant for court sports like volleyball, tennis, pickleball, basketball, handball, etc. are all designed to meet similar performance demands. Basketball is the most popular court sport, so, it’s common to see basketball shoes used for all of the other court sports, but, although it is less common to see, you can, of course, use other court shoes for basketball.

The Nike Hyperset 2 is a versatile court shoe, which, while designed for volleyball, demonstrates excellent performance in other indoor sports, especially basketball. Retailing between $135 and $145, the Hyperset 2 has a price point comparable to other performance shoes like the Nike Book 1, but it is packed with a bunch of tech specs other Nike basketball shoes wished they had. Despite not being officially categorized as a basketball shoe, it checks many of the boxes required for the sport, which makes it a hidden gem of sorts.

Nike Hyperset 2 Review

Nike Hyperset 2 Specs

Nike Hyperset 2 Traction

One of the standout features of the Nike Hyperset 2 is its traction. The shoe is equipped with a solid rubber outsole, etched with a wavy pattern that mimics traditional herringbone patterns often seen in basketball footwear. However, instead of the usual linear design, the pattern runs laterally, offering excellent grip for quick, multidirectional movements.

For indoor courts, the traction performs exceptionally well. The softer rubber bites the court well, and the multidirectional coverage is on point. However, due to the thin and flexible nature of the traction lines, outdoor use might not be the best option. Durability could become a concern on rough surfaces, but for indoor play, the shoe excels in providing ample grip for both volleyball and basketball.

Nike Hyperset 2 Cushion

The cushioning in the Hyperset 2 mirrors that of some models from Nike’s Hyperdunk line, and the shoe sort of looks like a modernized Hyperdunk. This is one of the aspects of the shoe that’s clearly better than many of Nike’s basketball shoes. The midsole is made from Phylon (some colorways feature React), Nike’s version of EVA foam, which is lightweight and provides adequate responsiveness.

Embedded within the Phylon are Zoom Air units in both the heel and forefoot, offering a soft and responsive feel underfoot.

Compared to similarly priced shoes like the Book 1 for example, the Hyperset 2 delivers excellent cushioning by comparison, making it a standout choice for athletes looking for a nice blend of impact protection and reactiveness. The inclusion of Zoom Air in both the heel and forefoot ensures a well-balanced and versatile setup.

One detail to note is that the insole, unlike many Nike basketball models, isn’t half bad. It provides decent arch support and boosts step in comfort. Although it doesn’t have advanced features like some higher-end models, it is more than adequate for the typical user and complements the midsole setup effectively.

Nike Hyperset 2 Materials

Materials are the one aspect of the Hyperset 2 which are comfortably average. The upper is built with synthetics and textiles rather than premium leather or nubuck. The forefoot is wrapped in a Flywire style material that offers flexibility and breathability. There are portions of fuse placed in different areas of the shoe where it needs better containment and durability. Synthetic leather covers the heel area, providing structure and stability.

Although the materials are not as premium as those found in other shoes, they are still functional and cater well to the shoe’s performance. The upper materials are lightweight, breathable, and durable and provide more than enough containment for basketball. The Hyperset 2 also features a TPU lockdown panel around the midfoot, reminiscent of the lockdown wings found in the Air Jordan 4, which helps keep the foot secure during quick lateral movements.

Overall, while the materials are not top-of-the-line, they contribute to a lightweight, breathable, and supportive package.

Nike Hyperset 2 Support

Support is a critical factor in court shoes, especially for sports like basketball and volleyball that involve lateral movements, jumps, and quick direction changes. If we compare the Hyperset 2 to certain other basketball specific Nike shoes, they are substantially better in this regard. The shoe is not only equipped with a lateral TPU lockdown, it also features a substantial heel counter and a TPU shank plate.

If you look at shoes like the Jordan 39, the Nike GT Cut Academy, the Nike GT Cut Cross or the Nike Zoom Freak 6, all of which lack any type of torsional support, you can see why the Hyperset is such a “hidden gem”. Additionally, the synthetic leather heel counter provides structured support, helping to lock the heel in place and prevent slippage. Combined with the Phylon midsole and Zoom Air cushioning, the shoe offers excellent lateral stability.

While the Hyperset 2 doesn’t feature a high-top design like some traditional basketball shoes, the combination of well-placed TPU elements and synthetic overlays ensures that wearers feel secure.

Nike Hyperset 2 Fit

The Nike Hyperset 2 fits true to size, making it a reliable choice for most athletes. The upper material offers a snug but comfortable fit, molding to the foot over time without creating hotspots or excessive pressure points. The inclusion of multiple lace sets also allows users to customize the fit and aesthetic of the shoe. This added versatility is a small but appreciated touch.

Nike Hyperset 2 Overall

In conclusion, the Nike Hyperset 2 is an incredibly versatile indoor court shoe that excels in multiple areas. It combines excellent traction, a fluid and versatile cushioning setup, alongside great lockdown and support. The materials could be of higher quality, and the outsole durability isn’t good enough to make these a great outdoor basketball option but, especially considering the retail price, this is a very solid hoop shoe.

In fact, it could be one of Nike’s better basketball shoes which is odd considering that it’s a volleyball shoe. The design of the Hyperset 2 proves that Nike is capable of creating a performance court shoe with things like forefoot and heel Zoom Air, a torsional plate, and sport specific lockdown, all of which are characteristics that are missing from many of Nike’s current basketball shoes. Whether you’re playing volleyball, basketball, or even pickleball, this shoe is well worth considering, especially as it becomes discounted over time.

Nike Hyperset 2

The Nike Hyperset 2 just might be one of Nike's best basketball shoes right now, but it's technically a volleyball shoe. But if it works, we'll test it.

Product Brand: Nike

Editor's Rating:
8.2

Pros

• Heel and forefoot Zoom Air
• Great lockdown
• Reasonable price

Cons

• Materials could be better
• Not outdoor friendly