Nike LeBron 22 Summary
On paper, the Nike LeBron 22 is very similar to the Nike LeBron 21. But several key differences make this latest version a more niche model.
Pros:
- Robust cushioning
- Great traction
- Excellent fit
Cons:
- Stiffer than last year’s model
- Picks up dust
Nike LeBron 22 Show
With the release of the Nike LeBron 20, LeBron James’ signature line made a huge aesthetic and performance change. Gone were the days of ultra-cushioned, bulky, tank-like LeBron shoes, and in came a minimalistic, low-profile, Kobe-esque, design aimed at catering to the on-court needs of a new generation. The Nike LeBron 21 was a similar, but slightly more beefed-up version of the LeBron 20. Now we have the Nike LeBron 22, which is again a very similar shoe to the 20 and the 21; but it’s even more robust than the 21 and feels more in line with other LeBron signatures of the past.
We have seen LeBron frequently sub out his signature shoes these past 2 years in favor of previous signature models or SE (Special Edition) versions of his shoes — which coincidentally tend to feature more robust builds. As good as the LeBron 20 and 21 are for the average basketball player, the King may need something sturdier underfoot that can keep up with his massive frame and explosive playing style. Let’s jump into the review and see what exactly is so different in the LeBron 22.
Nike LeBron 22 Review
Nike LeBron 22 Traction
Traction on the Nike LeBron 22 looks like it will perform exceedingly well on court, and traction has been a stand-out feature on both the LeBron 20 and 21. We have a triangular-shaped traction configuration and a blade-style traction pattern within that. These blades are going in every possible direction along the sole of the shoe, so multi-directional coverage should be excellent.
As for the rubber used on the outsole, we have seen versions of this shoe with solid rubber. However, the “Crown Jewel” colorway we tested features translucent rubber only. The rubber is tacky and bites the court well. But it takes some time to break in, and the traction lines are thin and shallow set, which means that outdoor durability will not be great. It may be slightly better in colorways of the shoe that feature solid rubber, but it will never be top-tier when it comes to durability.
Nike LeBron 22 Cushion
The Nike LeBron 22’s cushioning combines a Cushlon midsole, a Zoom Turbo unit in the forefoot, and a large-volume Zoom Air unit in the heel. On paper, this is the exact same setup as in the last 2 LeBron signature models; however, the sensation underfoot is very different. Implementation is everything — especially when it comes to cushioning in a basketball shoe — and this is one of the major changes in this shoe.
The Zoom Turbo unit in the forefoot, known for its responsive and bouncy feel, was initially featured in Kyrie’s signature line. But some wearers may find that the Zoom Turbo unit doesn’t feel as pronounced due to the rigid frame (or saddle, as Nike calls it) surrounding it, as well as the portions of the outsole that wrap up the forefoot of the shoe. The large volume Zoom Air unit in the heel feels as plush as ever, but the LeBron 22 definitely feels less pillowy overall compared to the 20 or the 21.
Nike LeBron 22 Materials
The LeBron 22 “Crown Jewel” features a synthetic leather build, but, depending on the colorway of the shoe, this will vary. As far as synthetic leathers go, this iteration we see on the LeBron 22 is excellent. It gives the shoe great structure and containment, it’s perforated for airflow, it will mold very well to your foot with some time, and it actually feels very nice in hand. The inside of the LeBron 22 is lined with Nike Sphere, which will mold to your foot and offer an excellent one-to-one fit.
Cradling the midfoot of the shoe we have the aforementioned saddle, which not only wraps around the middle of the shoe, it also extends to the forefoot. The tongue is very well padded and similar to what we saw on the LeBron 21, and the shoe is further equipped with a very substantial internal heel counter.
Nike LeBron 22 Support
Support is a defining feature of the LeBron 22, mainly because of that beefy saddle at the midfoot of the shoe. The saddle not only boosts support and lateral containment to the midfoot, but, since it extends into the forefoot as well, it also adds a good amount of torsional rigidity. And on top of that, we also have a top-loaded, TPU torsional plate; so lack of torsional rigidity will not be an issue in this model — in fact, an excess of it might be an issue for some.
The added stiffness and the much more substantial build of the upper may appeal to players who prefer a rigid, secure feel underfoot that’s reminiscent of older LeBron models. The shoe also features that hefty TPU heel counter and plush interior material, which, as it molds to your foot, will improve the lockdown and the overall feeling of security as you play.
Nike LeBron 22 Fit
The LeBron 22 is designed to fit true to size, accommodating the player’s foot snugly without any discomfort. The shoe’s interior lining, utilizing the Sphere technology, cradles the ankle and conforms to its shape, creating a custom fit around the Achilles and the rest of the ankle area. Sphere gets better and better the more you use the shoe, so make sure to give it some time.
The synthetic leather upper will also require a bit more time to break in if we compare it to more modern textile builds. But once it does, the fit and lockdown it offers will be hard to beat.
Nike LeBron 22 Overall
If you like older LeBron James signature models, you will like the LeBron 22. Overall, the Nike LeBron 22 is a powerful performance shoe that caters to players seeking robust support, responsive cushioning, and enhanced stability. It’s not the Kobe-adjacent-feeling shoe that the LeBron 20 was, or even the more substantial version of that that the LeBron 21 was.
While it may not offer the same low-profile, minimalist, and agile ride on court, the structured feel of the LeBron 22 is ideal for heavier and more powerful players who thrive on stability and support. The blend of technologies of the LeBron 22 gives it a distinctly different feel from lightweight, flimsy basketball shoes, making it a strong choice for players looking for a more supportive setup. Simply put, this is a shoe designed for a player like LeBron James.
