World Balance Invictus Jelly Bean First Impressions

The World Balance Invictus Jelly Bean is the brainchild of World Balance and Secret Fresh. If that latter company rings any bells for you, that’s because it’s the brand of none other than Big Boy Cheng – arguably Asia’s biggest sneaker collector. He has been at the forefront of the sneaker culture boom in the Philippines, and it’s awesome to see him support and even collaborate with a local brand like World Balance.

First Impressions

The Balenciaga (and Brandblack Villain) vibes continue with this model, much like the World Balance Invictus Reveal. The midsole is still exaggerated and a defining part of the design and look. The foam World Balance used is called SpringFoam, a change from the usual Trampolite we get in other World Balance casual shoes. It visually looks like 361°’s Quikfoam Lite that’s found in the 361° Zen 3. It’s plush in hand, though a lot of the step-in comfort comes from the Bounce Pad insoles. So if you bottom those out quickly, the midsole will be there to catch you.

The upper isn’t anything unique but different from the Reveal version. We have a complete mesh build that’s breathable and lightweight. Leather overlays are on the toe box, forefoot, and eyestay areas. They’re not premium by any means, but they’re at least partially genuine leather. Another raw material found in some parts of the shoe is suede. It’s short-haired, but I enjoy it there nonetheless. It gives the shoe both modern and retro vibes. The laces are reflective. I recommend double-tying them (3M rope laces are always quite slippy) so they don’t come undone while walking.

One of the most defining features of the shoe is the printed “More Good, Less Evil” on both shoes’ lateral sides. The Secret Fresh logo is also evident on the tongue. The combination of plain and vibrant colors is good and not overdone.

The fit is tighter than I expected. True to size is still recommended, but some break-in time is needed. Don’t worry about it too much because the textile build and the leather overlays should soften as you wear the shoe. Wide-footers may want to go up a full size. Unfortunately, World Balance does not have half sizes which makes sizing a bit trickier.

World Balance Invictus Jelly Bean Summary

The World Balance Invictus Jelly Bean is another excellent job by World Balance and Secret Fresh to create a visually appealing, comfortable shoe that sends a message. In these times of uncertainty and chaos, we need more good and less evil. It’s also fantastic that collaborations like these aren’t challenging to get, unlike when Nike and Jordan take a crack at it. Overall, if you like the style and appreciate the mix of different materials, I recommend them.

The World Balance Invictus Reveal is now available for $49.99 / Php2,899 at World Balance.