Way of Wade’s 808 line is, basically, their “Kobe” shoe. Every 808 model (except the first version) has been eerily similar to a Kobe model of the past: the 808 2 was reminiscent of the Kobe 8, the 808 3 was similar to the Kobe 9, and now we have the 808 4 Ultra. Why the Ultra version was released before the normal version is unclear, but we’re not complaining,

The Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra once again comes equipped with a very Kobe-esque drop-in midsole and a bunch of other high-end performance features, so let’s jump into the review and see what his model has to offer:

UPDATE: The Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra made it onto our list of the best low top basketball shoes of the year.

Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra Tech Specs:

Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra Traction

Way of Wade’s 808 series usually features great, durable traction. The 808 4 Ultra, on paper at least, is no different. This model features a solid rubber outsole with an unusually configured herringbone traction pattern. This setup should work great in terms of bite on the court and multidirectional coverage, and the rubber should hold up well outdoors, however, durability could still be an issue.

This is because the sole of the shoe is glued to a TPU chassis, portions of which are exposed. We have seen similar implementations in the past, and in many of those shoes, the sole would tend to tear away. The chances of this happening with the 808 4 is less because in this case rubber is glued to rubber, but it is something to keep an eye on.

All that being said, traction on the 808 4 Ultra should be great both indoors and outdoors and should offer decent durability as long as there is no issue with the adhesive.

Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra Cushion

The cushioning system in the Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra is a standout feature of the shoe. It is a more niche cushioning setup, but a great one nonetheless. The shoe is equipped with a drop-in midsole made from Li-Ning’s BOOM technology. This setup provides a balanced ride on court with an excellent blend of court feel, reactiveness, and impact protection. If you have played in the Kobe 8 or 9, it’s a very similar experience

Way of Wade describes this drop-in setup as “replaceable” which, if Way of Wade’s past product descriptions are any indication, should mean that we will see different midsoles featured in future 808 4 models. It’s also worth mentioning that the shape of this drop-in midsole is different than that of past 808 midsoles, so you probably won’t be able to use them in this shoe.

There is also no torsional plate integrated into this drop-in (not that there is any need for one, more on that later), it’s just a nice substantial slab of Boom. You can expect a low-profile, bouncy, and speedy ride on court, better suited for lighter shiftier hoopers.

Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra Materials

The upper of the Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra is crafted from a combination of textile and synthetic leather. The front half of the shoe is primarily a breathable textile with TPU hot melt overlays which provide structure and durability to that section of the shoe. The back half features synthetic materials that mimic leather, adding a stylish touch while maintaining functionality.

These are some of the best materials we have seen on an 808 model to date, at least as far as in-hand sensation is concerned. This mix of materials ensures that the shoe remains lightweight, breathable, and durable, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. The design also incorporates TPU panels on the interior of the medial side of the shoe. This works just fine as far as ventilation goes, but, this type of material tends to yellow quickly and not hold up well over time.

Way of Wade 808 3 Support

Support in the Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra is robust. In a world where major sneaker brands seem to be skimping out on support features more and more, Way of Wade’s strategy seems to be the polar opposite. The shoe is equipped with a hefty carbon fiber midfoot shank that provides excellent torsional rigidity, which is crucial for maintaining stability during dynamic movements.

Not only that, but the TPU chassis that spans the full length of the shoe and wraps up around several portions of the upper, also provides a fair amount of stability and torsion support.

Additionally, the shoe includes a midfoot strap with bungee attachment, which helps to provide a secure fit. This strap enhances lockdown, especially for players with different foot shapes, contributing to the overall supportive feel of the shoe. The synthetic rear part of the upper adds to the support by mimicking the feel of leather, offering a snug and secure fit.

Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra Fit

The fit of the Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra is generally true to size, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. The construction around the midfoot area, combined with the drop-in midsole, can create some pressure on the top of the foot. This might pose a challenge for players with high arches or wide feet. However, the textile upper should break in quickly, and alleviate some of these initial fit issues.

Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra Overall

Way of Wade’s 808 series has provided us with some of the best guard-orientated shoes in recent years, and the 808 4 looks like it will meet this standard. The 808 4 is quick, agile, and durable and the closest thing you can find to a Kobe that you can actually get your hands on for a reasonable price. Support and traction are perhaps the shoe’s best attributes, but it’s a very well-rounded shoe.

If you are a larger, more powerful basketball player who needs more compression and impact protection underfoot, then the Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra may not be for you, but it should be a model most hoopers enjoy.

As we progress in our testing we will keep this review updated in case the outsole durability becomes an issue, but, for now, the Way of Wade 808 4 Ultra is a very solid basketball shoe.