 As we all know, streetball is nothing less than a ritual throughout the United States, let alone the entire world, year in and year out. Each summer, Jordan Brand releases multiple outdoor sneakers exclusively designed for the rigors of the outdoor playgrounds. One of the outdoor designs created for this summer season is this Jordan Element. Although we first spotted this particular sneaker on Ray Allen’s feet towards the end of the 2008-09 NBA, many sneaker enthusiasts really took a liking towards it upon seeing it as a part of the Quai 54 x Air Jordan “Ruff & Tuff” Pack. We put the Jordan Element through indoor and outdoor performance tests to see how it could handle both elements of play. Click here to see how Jordan Element performed. |
Jordan Element Performance Review
Strengths: The Jordan Element is nothing less than ideal for the outdoor basketball game. Although it also performed rather nicely on the hardwood, this particular sneaker would be a nice pickup for one that plays outdoor the majority of the time. The first thing that sticks out on this shoe is its extreme traction. When making quick, deceptive moves, the Jordan Element allows one to stabilize balance at the same time. Recovery time is a must when playing on outdoor surfaces; therefore, traction is a need. Another advantage the Jordan Element provides the player with is its cushioning. There is nothing better than a comfortable-fitting sneaker when playing outside on rugged surfaces. The Jordan Element also possesses a lightweight capacity which is not often associated with outdoor-ready basketball shoes.
Weaknesses: Although the Jordan Element possesses a lightweight capacity, its external bulkiness goes against the grain from most basketball shoes that have recently released. For this reason, one’s vertical and lateral response seems to be very limited at times. It feels as if the sneaker and the foot are not in unison consistently when making sharp moves. In addition, seeing that this shoes cannot totally be categorized as a high-top nor a low cut sneaker, the ankle support is not as secure as other sneakers. With that said, we all know how important ankle support is when playing outside (Think Rucker Park Games).
Overall, the Jordan Element is a solid, durable sneaker that can be worn over and over again on the outdoor courts. Its trifecta of durability, traction and cushioning provides the player with unique advantages. At a first glance, what are your thoughts on the Jordan Element?
