As a professional basketball player, the shoes you wear on the court can greatly influence your performance. The Air Jordan 1 “Royal” (Black/Varsity Royal-White) is a popular choice among many players, but how does it fare in terms of grip, flexibility, shock absorption, and potential improvements? Here’s my on-court review.
Grip
The Air Jordan 1 “Royal” delivers a solid grip on the court, thanks to its rubber outsole with a circular pattern. Whether executing a fast break or making a sudden stop, these shoes provide the traction needed for these quick movements. However, the grip does tend to wear down over time, especially if frequently used on outdoor courts. Regularly wiping the soles during game breaks can help maintain optimal traction.
nike blazer low 77 pale coral white pale coral black rattan dc4769 106
Flexibility
The Air Jordan 1 “Royal” offers decent flexibility, allowing for a good range of motion. Its high-top design provides ample ankle support without restricting movement, essential for those quick pivots and lateral movements. The shoe’s leather and synthetic upper materials, while not the most flexible compared to newer materials, still allow for a comfortable fit that adapts to your foot’s shape.
Shock Absorption
In terms of shock absorption, the Air Jordan 1 “Royal” is quite impressive. It features Nike’s Air Sole technology in the heel, providing a significant amount of cushioning. This is particularly beneficial during high jumps and landings, as it helps to minimize the impact on your joints. However, some may find the cushioning in the forefoot area lacking, especially during long periods of play.
Potential Improvements
While the Air Jordan 1 “Royal” is a high-performing basketball shoe, there is always room for improvement. The shoe could benefit from a more durable outsole to enhance its grip longevity, especially for outdoor play. Additionally, incorporating a more flexible material for the upper could improve overall comfort and fit.
The forefoot cushioning could also be enhanced, perhaps by extending the Air Sole technology throughout the entire sole. This would provide better shock absorption during those intense moments of the game.
Conclusion
The Air Jordan 1 “Royal” (Black/Varsity Royal-White) is a stylish and functional basketball shoe that offers a commendable grip, decent flexibility, and excellent shock absorption. However, with a few improvements, it could elevate its performance to match the demands of today’s fast-paced basketball games. As a professional player, I believe these shoes are a solid choice but bear in mind the areas where they might fall short.