Serious Player Only Player 1 Light: SPO’s Best Midsole Yet

The Serious Player Only Player 1 Light is the latest evolution of the Player 1 series, refining its predecessors’ strengths while introducing innovative elements for enhanced performance. The original Player 1 had its fair share of issues, but the Player 1 Plus rectified many of them, making it a solid contender in the performance basketball shoe market.

Serious Player Only Player 1 Light Review

Serious Player Only Player 1 Light Traction

The Player 1 Light retains the same outsole pattern as the Player 1 Plus, a move that makes perfect sense given its proven effectiveness. The solid rubber outsole grips indoor courts exceptionally well, providing a reliable foundation for explosive movements and quick stops. However, the translucent outsole version doesn’t perform as well on dusty courts, which is something to keep in mind if you’re playing in less-than-ideal conditions.

Durability has been addressed as well. The original Player 1’s outsole was criticized for its softness and lack of longevity, but the Player 1 Plus fixed that with a more durable rubber compound. Thankfully, the Player 1 Light continues this trend, making it a viable option for both indoor and outdoor play.

This is where the Player 1 Light truly shines. The shoe features the Quick 2.0 midsole, which is an ATPU foam-based cushioning system. Compared to the original Quick midsole, this one is bouncier, more responsive, and significantly more durable. What makes ATPU foam special? It’s a supercritical foaming process using clean CO2 technology, which not only enhances energy return but also makes the material more eco-friendly.

Unlike traditional EVA setups, this midsole doesn’t break down as quickly, ensuring that your ride remains consistent even after months of use. If you’ve tried SPO’s Explosive midsole from previous models, you’ll find that Quick 2.0 offers a more balanced feel—plush without being overly soft, and responsive without feeling too firm. It’s a great middle-ground for guards and wings who need impact protection without sacrificing court feel. It’s our favorite SPO midsole to date.

The upper of the Player 1 Light has undergone the most noticeable transformation. It’s constructed with a thin TPU shell, making it ultra-lightweight yet durable. Strategic reinforcements in high-stress areas, such as the eyestay and forefoot, ensure longevity while keeping weight to a minimum. Unlike the Player 1 Plus, which had a more layered build, the Player 1 Light embraces transparency, exposing its structural elements.

This might not be for everyone aesthetically, but functionally, it offers breathability and flexibility without compromising support. Additionally, nylon bands integrated into the midfoot provide a secure fit by anchoring directly to the strobel board. This ensures that your foot stays locked in place during aggressive movements, enhancing overall containment.

Support has been another area of improvement. The lateral stability clip from the Player 1 Plus remains intact, providing torsional rigidity to prevent excessive twisting. However, the carbon fiber plate has been swapped for a Pebax plate, reducing weight while maintaining strength.

One of the standout features is the arch support plate embedded in the midsole. While subtle, this element ensures proper foot alignment and helps prevent overpronation. It’s not intrusive like an orthotic insert but provides just enough structure to keep your feet comfortable during extended play sessions.

Fit can make or break a basketball shoe, and the Player 1 Light does a great job in this department. The flexible forefoot construction ensures that there’s no unnecessary pinching, while the midfoot lockdown bands provide a snug, one-to-one fit. Compared to the Player 1 Plus, which had a more structured feel, the Player 1 Light feels more adaptive.

This means that wide-footers might find them more forgiving, while narrow-footers will still get a secure fit thanks to the customizable lacing system. True to size is the way to go for most players, but if you prefer a roomier fit, going up half a size might be an option. The tongue is slightly thinner than on previous models, allowing for a more natural fit without excessive bulk.

The Serious Player Only Player 1 Light is an excellent option for hoopers looking for a lightweight, responsive, and well-cushioned basketball shoe. With top-tier traction, innovative cushioning, and a minimal yet supportive build, this model continues to refine the Player 1 series in the best way possible.

For players who prioritize speed, responsiveness, and all-around performance, the Serious Player Only Player 1 Light is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re a guard looking for quick movements and agile cuts, or a wing in need of solid impact protection, this shoe delivers across the board. If you’re considering picking up a pair, make sure to opt for the solid rubber outsole for the best traction experience.