Wear Your Soles Review #5 : Adidas EQT Support 93/17

Adidas has recently incorporated boost technology with brand new and retro silhouettes. Before the Ultra Boost silhouette was born and boost was put into basically every shoe on Adidas's line, Boost was meant for runners. It was meant to give runners a bounce back when they put pressure down on the shoe. But now Adidas has put boost on a model that was most popular for running. The EQT, also known as "Adidas Equipment" was the 'best" model brought out by Adidas's Lifestyle line, Adidas Originals. The most popular silhouette EQT support 93/16 was the silhouette chosen to create the 93/17.

Adidas Eqt Support 93/17 "Turbo Red"

The first EQT 93/17 was introduced January 28, 2017. Its a pretty recent shoe and has picked up interest in many people. The shoe is made with a thicker Prime knit than the Ultra boost and has a nice layer of Boost to cushion your foot. The sole is just a basic rubber sole. Not much traction on it but holds up well. There are currently 15 colourways available to purchase.

Adidas EQT Support 93/17 X Bait

Weather Performance

The 93/17 are a pretty good shoe for all weather conditions. it can withstand snow, rain, and mud. If you are unlucky the leather and mesh material inside the shoe might soak up the rain or snow.  Since the 93 has a thick outsole, it is meant to be used when you go for a hike or outside during the cold and wetter season.

Running / Training

In my opinion, the 93s are solid running shoes. With the comfort from the boost and the good lock of the ankle from the silhouette, the EQT support 93/17 is a great shoe for running. The quality of the shoe isn't that good so there could be a chance for the knit to rip if you aren't careful. Training in this shoe wouldn't be the best choice but not the worst.

Casual Wear / Walking

This shoe is by far my favourite shoe to wear when I'm just going out. The shoe is nice and lightweight and breathable. When I recently went traveling, I wore this shoe for an entire week. I was expecting my feet to hurt and sweat a ton. But the Boost kept me comfy the entire trip and the breathable knit was fantastic. Most of the colourways are easy to match with outfits and is a great shoe for a night out.

Cost

Prices in CAD*

Adidas EQT Support 93/17  Retail: $210 - $240

Overall Review

Overall the Adidas EQT Support 93/17 is a great shoe. I think it's a perfect shoe for all seasons and able to withstand all environmental factors in its way. The price is around the same as the Ultra Boost, but it really depends on your style and what your preference is. If you are interested go and try it on for yourself. Not everyone will like the shoe but you might.

Running: 6.5/10    Stability: 8/10   Walking: 8/10   Weather Performance: 7/10    Comfort: 9/10   

Wear Your Soles Review #4 : Converse Chuck Taylor All star II Boot

As winter brings the snow upon us, we require wearing different footwear. Something that is waterproof will protect us from the coming winter months. The Converse Chuck Taylor Allstar II Boot is a perfect shoe for the winter. The Chuck is constructed with an all leather upper and built to withstand all elements coming on its way. The sole is a hard rubber material which has a spider web design, allowing for a firm grip to the ground.

All 4 Converse Chuck Taylor Allstar II

Ever since Nike had bought Converse, Nike decided to put in there "Lunar Lon" Technology into all of there converse models, including the Chuck II Boot. Nike has been using this technology for many years and not once has it not been super comfortable. I'm not saying that "Lunar Lon" is the most comfortable technology out there, but it works well with the boot. Currently, the shoes have 54different colours available to purchase worldwide.

Weather performance

This is probably one of the best boots I've ever had. Last year during the large snowfall, I wore these boots almost every day during the snowy days and never had snow, slush, or rain get into the shoe. I have to say Nike did well designing the boot and making it true to its name. An all waterproof boot.

When I had rain on the shoe, only a few droplets had stayed on the Boot. When I shook the shoe all of the drops just slid right off. It's just a great weather performing boot.

Casual Wear / Walking

Normally I expect boots to be super heavy and not comfortable. The Chuck II Boot is surprisingly light and has a "Lunar Lon" insole which makes this boot really comfortable to walk in. The Chuck really forms well around your foot and keeps it locked in. When I was walking home in these boots, they really didn't bother me and I kinda thought I was wearing a pair of runners. that's how great fitting they are.

Cost

Prices in CAD*

Converse Chuck II Boot (Leather)  Retail: $149.99

Overall Review

This is one of the best boots for all elements. Especially since it rains a lot in Vancouver, the boot can be used year round. The boot is super comfortable compared to other boots and keeps all elements (snow, slush, mud, rain) out. The sole is sturdy and has a design to prevent you from slipping on ice. 

  

 Walking: 7/10   Weather Performance: 9/10    Comfort: 8/10   

Image Credits: Google Images, Sneaker News, High Snobiety, Hypebeast, Stock X

Wear Your Soles Review #3 : Air Jordan 1

The one shoe that started Jordan Brand and shook up the NBA's uniform code for footwear on the court. The Air Jordan 1 was first seen on court during a game in 1985. Michael Jordan stepped onto the court in a hightop silhouette with the infamous Black and Red colourway. Nike them selfs thought the shoe looked like "the devils" shoe. The shoe brought up problems for Jordan because, during that time, the NBA had a strict policy about players clothing attire. Every time MJ stepped onto the court, he'd be fined for $5000. The "sneaker ban" built up so much attention that Nike decided to step in and pay the fines that Jordan accumulated.

Michael Jordan playing in Bred 1s

The Jordan 1 has an all leather upper constructed with a high top like silhouette which "locks" your ankle in. The midsole a foam type material and the sole is rubber. The Jordan 1 was first released as a basketball shoe, but most people nowadays wear them casually. There have been over 200+ Jordan 1s that were released. The most well known "Banned" 1, Shattered Backboard 1, and Royal 1 just to name a few. Recently the Jordan 1 silhouette was used with Nike's "THE TEN" collaboration with off-white creator and designer Virgil Abloh. Currently, the collab is one of the hardest pairs to obtain.

Air Jordan 1 "Bred" (Banned)

Air Jordan 1 "Royal" 

Air Jordan 1 "Shattered Backboard"

Air Jordan 1 X Off White

Weather Performance

From my personal experience wearing Jordan 1s during all weather, they do pretty well. since its an all leather upper, it repels water and snow well. if you are unlucky the leather and mesh material inside the shoe might soak up the rain or snow. During the last large snowfall, I wore the 1s for a week. during that time period, I learned that the sole isn't that good and I lost control with my footing nearly slipping on ice. 

Running / Training

Right away I'm going to say don't even try to run in these shoes. They're not flexible at all, being leather. i did try to play basket ball in these. the result was there is no ankle support, as well as the shoes are heavy and hard to run in. The shoe has no cushioning for your foot and just hurts your feet after just a little bit of running or a bit of walking. Just not an optimal shoe to wear for running or training.

Casual Wear / Walking

When I wear these shoes, I'd only last around half a day before my feet begin to hurt. the Jordan 1 just doesn't have any cushion to keep your feet comfy so I wouldn't recommend going a day in them. Maybe bring a spare shoe to change into cause majority of the time your feet will hurt unless your that lucky person that doesn't notice it. Even though they might hurt your feet, people are wearing the shoes every day and can wear it with just about anything.

Cost

Prices in CAD*

Air Jordan 1  Retail: $200 - $240 

Overall Review

I do enjoy wearing the Jordan 1. It fits any style and is a good shoe during the wetter seasons. It might hurt your feet a bit but it might just be worth it. Going to a nice night out, the Jordan 1 is really nice to wear. If your traveling it might not be the best shoe to wear since it is so heavy. Otherwise, I'd wear the Jordan 1 for short periods of time.

Running: 2/10   Stability: 6/10   Walking: 5/10   Weather Performance: 7.5/10   Comfort: 6.5/10

Image Credits: Google Images, Sneaker News, High Snobiety, Hypebeast, Stock X

Wear Your Soles Review #2 : Adidas NMD

The Adidas NMD (Urban Nomads) is one of Adidas's best selling shoe. The NMD was originally created for runners but has moved on to be an everyday wear shoe. The NMD, like the Adidas Ultra Boost, has a boost midsole for comfort and highest energy return to that of any runner on the market right now. The NMD features a Primeknit upper, a solid Boost midsole, and web rubber outsole.

OG NMD R1 Released: December 12th, 2015

Adidas First introduced the NMD in December 2015. Currently, Adidas has created and produced over 300 different and unique NMDs. Companys like "Sneakersandstuff", "White Mountaineering", "United Arrows and Sons" and Singer Pharrell Williams have their own signature designs using the NMD as their canvas.

There's currently 8 versions of the NMD on the market. Each displaying its own unique design and pattern. The 7 NMDs are NMD R1, NMD R2, NMD City Sock, NMD City Sock 2, NMD XR1, NMD Chukka, NMD Trail, and Pharrell William's "Human Race" NMD.

The R1 displays the "coloured elements" (Also known as "Lego Blocks") and the primeknit as its an entire piece like a sock. The R2 loses the "colour elements" and adds more boost to the heel area. The primeknit is also it 2 pieces and has a tongue. The CS and CS2 lose the laces and take on its name just being a sock on Boost. The Chukka is a mid-top NMD. The trail is designed to withstand all terrain and weather. Pharrell's "Human Race" has his own spin. Each shoe has some wording related to "Human Race" and the insoles have the human body printed on.

NMD R1 X Nice Kicks

NMD R2 X White Mountaineering

NMD CS X United Arrows and Sons

NMD CS2 X Naked X Kith

NMD XR1 X Mastermind

NMD Chukka X Porter

NMD Trail X White Mountaineering

NMD "Human Race"

Running/Training

Although the Adidas NMD R1 is meant to be a runner, it does not compare to other Adidas shoes containing boost. The boost on this shoe is much stiffer making it have a higher energy return compared to the Ultra Boost and Energy Boost. The NMD R1 is my go-to shoe for running. The prime knit is super breathable and allows for a secure lock on your foot. For long distance runners, the NMDs outsole allows for a large amount of wear. Training in the NMD isn't terrible. It has the boost technology and is breathable, good for people with sweaty feet. The Prime knit is thick enough to where it won't rip and create a hole.

Weather Performance

The NMD has a primeknit upper which does not withstand rain or snow. Currently, the NMD R1 Trail is the only NMD which can withstand snow and mud. having a thicker outsole, it is meant to be used when you go for a hike or outside during the cold and wetter season. I think the NMD R1 is meant for the warmer seasons and matches all types of outfits. 

Casual Wear

The NMD is a household shoe for basically anybody. it way easier to obtain than the Ultra Boost and is found at shops sitting for the rest of the general public. The NMD is the type of shoe that you can grab and wear the entire day, not worrying about comfort or if it's matching. The NMD sculpts with all feet and is good for traveling. Being super light it's easy to pack and takes little space.

Cost

Prices in CAD*

Adidas NMD R1  Retail: $220 - $240

Adidas NMD R2  Retail: $220 - $280

Adidas NMD City Sock  Retail: $200 - 220

Adidas NMD CS2  Retail: $220

Adidas NMD XR1  Retail: $190 - $280

Adidas NMD Chukka  Retail: $160 - $200

Adidas NMD Trail  Retail: $240

Adidas NMD Human Race  Retail:$300

Overall Review

The Adidas NMD is a great shoe for running. Its not built to last super long distances but its does the job. The NMD is a great shoe if your going out or traveling and want a shoe that is comfortable plus good looking. The price is around the same as the Ultra Boost, but it really depends on your style and what your preference is. If i'm brutally honest, i'd say just go and try it on. everyone is different but this is just my personal opinion on the Adidas NMD.

Running: 7/10   Stability: 8.5/10   Walking: 7/10   Weather Performance: 5/10   Comfort: 7/10

Image Credits: Google Images, Sneaker News, High Snobiety, Hypebeast, Stock X

Wear Your Soles Review #1 : Adidas Ultra Boost

The Adidas Ultra Boost is one of the most sought after shoe at the moment. The Ultra Boost has a technology called "Boost" which has the ability to bounce back into its shape. Boost is made out of thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) which is super springy.

There are Six versions at the moment, all with different "Uppers". (Upper: The part of the shoe where your foot is secured in place. Made of all types of materials. Fabric, Primeknit, Leather, etc.) All three uppers are made with Primeknit and each have their own unique pattern.

Ultra Boost 1.0 "Core Black"

Ultra Boost 2.0 "Reflective"

Ultra Boost 3.0

Ultra Boost Uncaged "Core Black"

Ultra Boost ST "USA"

Adidas Laceless Ultra Boost

Adidas First debuted this shoe in 2015 and has paved its way to being "The Greatest Running Shoe Ever" as said by Adidas. The shoe has stayed true to its title and is the number one choice for runners and Sneakerheads.  Currently, Adidas has put out over 300+ different colourways. Personally, I have 5 pairs.

Adidas Ultra Boost "OG" Released: February 11th, 2015

Weather Performance

How does the shoe do in different weather conditions? Well as of right now basically all ultra boost can not with stand liquid as the primeknit will absorb the liquid. The company has created an All Terrain Shoe, which they said would do better than a regular pair of Ultra Boost. I have seen the shoe but never actually put it to the test. Just From looking at it, you can see a rubber toe box and a reinforced Primeknit. I would say the Ultra Boost is meant more for a casual Summer shoe.

Running / Training

The Ultra Boost was really meant to be a runner. The comfortable and breathable Primeknit Plus the reactive Boost technology allows for it to be a great running shoe. The Continental Rubber Sole allows for good grip and longer-lasting use. This is a great shoe for neutral runners in the city and marathons since it really isn't meant for harsher terrains. Personally, I run in this shoe during all different weather conditions.

The Ultra Boost Which is best for running is the Ultra Boost ST. The ST is much more stable than the rest of the line. If you're doing Dead lifts or other types of weight lifting, the normal Ultra boost is unbalanced and won't keep you stable. The reasoning is the full-length midsole of boost will try to come back to its original shape and you would be fighting with the springy TPU. The ST will give you a bit of stability, but it might still be Unbalanced.

Casual Wear / Walking

The Ultra Boost has created a name for its self as one of the most hyped shoes. If you know anyone that is into streetwear, they probably have at least one pair of Ultra Boost. It matches basically any outfit and is an easy shoe to just grab and be comfortable all day. If you're looking for a comfortable and stylish Shoe, this is it. perfect for just about every type of foot shape. From Flat, wide, skinny and every other shape and size. When travelling, the Ultra Boost is really good for those long days of walking around and touring the city. 

Cost

The cost might look really steep, but this is an investment for your feet and yourself. The quality on these shoes are really good and they last for a long time.

Prices in CAD*

Adidas Ultra Boost 1.0 Retail: $180 - $240

Adidas Ultra Boost 2.0 Retail: $220 - $290

Adidas Ultra Boost 3.0 Retail: $240 - $260

Adidas Ultra Boost Uncaged Retail: $240 - $260

Adidas Ultra Boost ST Retail: $210 - $240

Adidas Laceless Ultra Boost Retail: $250

Overall Review

Overall the Adidas Ultra Boost is a great shoe for both casual wear and running in. The shoe is super light weight and not a hassle to carry. The price points are pretty high but I believe this could be one of your best investments.

Running: 7.5/10    Stability: 8.5/10   Walking: 8/10   Weather Performance: 6.5/10    Comfort: 9/10   

Image Credits: Google Images, Sneaker News, High Snobiety, Hypebeast, Stock X