Nike KD 7 Performance Review with NY Kicks
So after playing in the KD 7 for a couple of weeks straight, I am ready to share my thoughts and opinions on the shoe’s performance. Sneak peek: They’re AMAZING.
Traction : A
The traction on the KD 7 is definitely one of the best features the shoe has to offer. The traction pattern is kind of like herringbone, but it squiggles off into a very unique, and very effective, pattern of V-cut lines. The type of rubber used in the shoe is also very durable, so outdoor players will get great use out of these. On indoor courts, the traction works very well. Dusty courts will have some slight slippage, but other than that, you are sticking like glue. If you are a player who likes to stop on a dime, you won’t have a problem with these!
Cushion : A+
Cushioning is very important to me personally, and the KD 7 did not disappoint. This was my favorite aspect of the shoe. A full-length EVA midsole is in place, along with an incapsulated Zoom unit in the forefoot, and ‘Max-Zoom’ in the heel. The midsole is easily broken in (I’d say about 1 hour of straight playing for the break-in time) and is the most comfortable cushioning ever featured on the KD line. The Zoom units can actually be felt, also! Extremely comfortable, and extremely responsive… You can’t really go wrong!
Materials: A
Up front we have a lightweight mesh, similar to what is used on the Nike HyperRev. In the back, there is HyperPosite. These materials work very well together, in my opinion. The mesh gives a flexible and breathable feel to the front of the shoe, while the back is all support with the HyperPosite. With KD’s unique style of play (built like a big-man, plays like a guard) he needs the variety. The materials are also very durable; a thin layer of fuse is in place underneath/on-top of the mesh, to add durability and support. Great so far!
Support: A-
The support is pretty much taken care of with the HyperPosite. It is strong, but forms to your foot, making sure you’re comfortable and supported. Personally, I love this material. It holds your heel and ankle in place, giving you the secure feeling you need to make powerful moves. The mesh up front has a bit of support, coming from the Fuse over/under-lays. Also, there some torsional support on the outsole. Overall, the support is great; not too much, but not too little.
Fit/Lockdown: A-
These fit better than any other KD shoe, in my opinion. The KD 4 fit narrow, the KD 6 was tight around the tongue area, but these fit my feet perfectly. I wouldn’t recommend going up or down half a size, due to the fact that the materials break in and mold to your feet. After a couple days of playing time, the upper starts to mimic the shape of your foot, providing an EXTREMELY comfortable ride. The lockdown wasn’t as good, unfortunately. Unlike the KD 6, the back of the KD 7 was a bit loose, while the front was locked-down perfectly. It’s not too bad, but you can definitely feel some heel slippage.
Overall: A
Overall, I love the KD 7. This is my number-one shoe to play basketball in as of now, and one of my favorite Kicks Off Court, too. If you have the money,($150), I definitely recommend purchasing this shoe. I know I will be purchasing more!
Via Nike
