Way of Wade Ice Blood 2 V2: A Solid Budget-Friendly Option

One of the standout features of the Way of Wade Ice Blood 2 V2 is its full-length rubber outsole constructed with anti-slip rubber. This should provide excellent grip on both indoor and outdoor courts and also hold up well on those, more abrasive, outdoor courts. This isn’t an elite traction setup, but it is definitely versatile and effective.

The traction pattern provides a consistent grip, but its effectiveness may vary depending on the court’s condition. Some players might find the grip insufficient on dusty indoor courts, requiring occasional wiping to maintain performance. Overall, the traction is reliable and should serve most players well, especially those looking for an affordable outdoor basketball shoe.

The Way of Wade Ice Blood 2 V2 features a full-length slab of Boom foam, which is housed within a foam carrier. Boom is Way of Wade’s best cushioning technology, so it’s nice to see it equipped in one of their lower-tier hoop shoes.. This midsole will provide good court feel, energy return, and a good amount of impact protection as well. Again, the Boom foam runs full-length in the shoe, meaning there’s consistent comfort from heel to toe.

The midsole offers decent energy return, though it’s not as bouncy as high-end Way of Wade models. Players who prefer a low-profile ride with enough impact protection for comfort will appreciate this setup. While Boom foam is a great inclusion at this price point, it may not be as plush as some premium models, making it better suited for guards and perimeter players rather than big men who need maximum cushioning.

The materials on the Way of Wade Ice Blood 2 V2 are a mix of heavy textiles and synthetic leather overlays. While this provides durability and structure, it does feel somewhat cheap compared to premium Way of Wade models. The base layer resembles Cordura mesh, offering decent breathability while maintaining strength. Synthetic leather overlays add reinforcement and support, but they are rather plastic-y in hand.

The laces have a unique design with textured “bubbles”, helping to keep them tight throughout your playing time. The insole is non-removable, which might be an issue for players who rely on custom orthotics. While the materials may not be the most luxurious, they do perform well on court.

Despite being a budget-friendly model, the Way of Wade Ice Blood 2 V2 includes several key support features: A lateral outrigger helps with stability and prevents ankle rollovers, a hefty TPU torsion plate that adds rigidity and some extra snap underfoot, and a beefy heel counter. The upper also does a good job of providing containment, as do the lace cables integrated into the lacing system.

The narrow base keeps the foot locked in, though it might not be ideal for wide-footers. While the narrow shape may be a drawback for players with wider feet, those with normal or narrow feet will appreciate the secure lockdown and lateral containment, and this build creates no added instability.

One of the biggest improvements in the Way of Wade Ice Blood 2 V2 over its predecessor is the fit. The previous model was extremely narrow, making it uncomfortable for many players. This version offers a slightly more forgiving fit, though it remains on the snug side.

True to size is recommended for most players, but wide-footers may want to go up half a size or look elsewhere. Again, the bubble-laced design helps keep the foot locked in without constantly adjusting.

The Way of Wade Ice Blood 2 V2 is a solid performer for its price range, offering good, durable traction, decent cushioning, and a durable build. While it may not have the premium feel of some Way of Wade flagship models, it provides good value for players looking for a budget-friendly basketball shoe.

The Way of Wade Ice Blood 2 V2 is best suited for: guards and perimeter players who need good traction and a responsive ride or outdoor hoopers looking for a durable and affordable basketball shoe. But keep in mind the narrow fit of the Ice Blood 2 V2. This is not a shoe for wide-footers (but we do have a list for ones that are).