Executive Summary: The Rose 7 Mesh had the shortest stay at number 1 ever ..then the Primeknit came in..but then I played on a dirty floor and the Mesh returned to number 1. Firmer cushioning than the Rose 6, ridiculous traction, supportive and stable while staying flexible, insole swap highly recommended to improve fit and forefoot cushioning especially on the mesh version.
A CLEAR NEW NUMBER ONE IN MY ROTATION.
I’ll admit, I was disappointed that the CLB 16 didn’t work out for me but I wasn’t devastated since I knew the Rose 7 was around the corner.. And I’m glad I waited
Pros: traction, cushioning, fit, support and stability, containment
Cons: overall Boost is firmer but smoother than last year, forefoot cushioning is underwhelming in mesh version, deadspace in forefoot especially in front of the first eyelet, insole swap recommend to help remedy problems above.
Sizing: true to size for me. Narrow width feet will want to size down half a size.
Best for: any position
Weight
17.5 to 18 ounces?! It doesn’t play heavy at all so I was very surprised. Heaviest Rose to date and heaviest than Lebrons recent shoes.
Traction
Fantastic.
That is all. You can see in the pic below the variable depth of the outsole. Rubber compound and pattern is just perfect.
Hi I’m Schwollo and I’m a traction whore. Traction is my top priority and these are up there in the top tier with the Curry Two, AJ XX8, Kobe IX. These just plain work on anything .
The translucent outsole of the Primeknit cost the Primeknit version the top spot. I played on a semi dusty Pergo floor last night and if you know what Pergo is, it doesn’t absorb anything so dirt just sits on top of the surface. I switched back to the mesh and had no issues the rest of the night.
This translucent outsole compound is similar to the Hyperdunk 16 FK so it picked up everything and needed wiping to stick. When a Primeknit version comes out without this outsole, I’m all in though.
Awesome job Adidas
Cushioning
Last year’s Rose 6 set up was great even though it wasn’t full length Boost but making this year’s model full length added more fluidity to the shoe. However, that fluidity comes at the expense of forefoot comfort. The Rose 6 had a nice plush balanced feel from heel to toe while the Rose 7 feels very similar to the Rose 5 with a distinct toe drop and decline in Boost feel from heel to toe despite all the additional Boost. Very similar firmness to the CLB16 overall although the CLB has a meatier and more balanced feel than the Rose 7. Overall it sits lower and feels firmer in the forefoot.
For the life of me I couldn’t figure out why the Boost felt so much firmer in the Rose 7 versus the 6. The forefoot is caged on the lateral side like the Rose 5 so that makes some sense. But there is a lot more Boost in the heel and forefoot and it isn’t a whole lot denser
and then I remembered how the Nike Zoom BB did it and voila, mystery solved
The strobel in the Rose 7 (far left) is hard like a typical board while the Rose 5 (far right)and 6 (middle) use soft cloth. You can even see the texture of the Boost with the Rose 5. The firm strobel is used instead of cloth since there isn’t a Stableframe like the 6 to stabilize the Boost.
So I replaced the ultra thin insole with the good ol Rose 4 PU insole and. I was in cushioning heaven. That feeling of uneven “flat” cushioning went away by just swapping the insole. Adidas really should have put the PU insole into the Rose 7 since they switched the strobel to a firmer board. I know I use the bed analogy a lot but it’s like putting a piece of cardboard on top of a Sealy mattress.
Primeknit Version
After I swapped out the insole of the mesh version, I got my Primeknit version and it looks like somebody at Adidas didn’t get the memo on TPS reports.
Top to bottom: Rose 7 mesh, Rose 7 PK, Rose 4
As you can see the Primeknit version has a thicker insole nearly as thick as the Rose 4 insole. It is the same cheap foam as the mesh version but much thicker so it fills that bit of deadspace. No need to swap anything around with the Primeknit version fit wise although I prefer the PU feel. Why the mesh version doesn’t have this is beyond me.
Well done Adidas but made even better job by me and the Primeknit Rose 7
Fit
The fit of the CLB drove me crazy as I went back and forth for weeks with the sizing. I’m happy to say the Rose 7 fit was simply true to size. Perfect length and width for me and I’m a wide foot. I think narrow footers may want to go down half a size because the lack of half a tongue will make it tough to lace tightly in the forefoot.
However, there is a little deadspace in the toe box again since there isn’t a normal length tongue and there is a synthetic underlay in the toe box
After I swapped the insole, the deadspace was minimized and I had that solid one to one feel in the forefoot. Very similar situation to the Rose 5.
Primeknit
Since this version already has a thicker insole and almost pure Primeknit, the fit improves from the mesh version. There is still a little bubble due to no tongue but it is a lot smaller than the mesh bubble.
Near perfect one to one fit with the Primeknit version with no break in time needed.
The Heel and Midfoot
The heel and midfoot fit is excellent. The lace loops/rope lace combo of the Rose 7 are very tight so they don’t loosen during play but you have to tug pretty hard to tighten correctly. The heel and ankle are drawn back and down perfectly with the synthetic overlays and the feel is very reminiscent of the Rose 5 which I love.
Gone is the ultra puffy padding of the Rose 6 (Man I hated that tongue)
The Rose 7 returns to a slimmer and very contoured collar.
Overall, without the insole swap, the overall fit is very good but with the insole swap, the fit is excellent. No need to change anything on the Primeknit version.
Well done Adidas !
Materials
I thought these were pure mesh with synthetic overlays but there is actually a synthetic underlay ( part of the engineered mesh) in the toe box as well so those of you expecting a Crazylight Boost 2016 feel will be disappointed. That underlay plus lack of a tongue cause that bubble of deadspace in the mesh version. It pops a little in the beginning, especially the medial forefoot, but breaks in nicely.
Primeknit
The thought that went into the design of this upper impresses me. It’s as if they read my article on Why Mesh and Knits don’t work for me.
Primeknit is very comfortable, don’t get me wrong but it needs more strength when it is applied to a basketball shoe. Adidas actually addressed that need by putting nylon (I think) straps underneath all the dark red stripes. This gives the upper strength on lateral moves without giving up flexibility. No break in time needed with the Primeknit version.
The synthetic leather panels aren’t premium feeling but they look nice and do their job so no complaints here.
Great job with the mesh, awesome job with the Primeknit Rose 7.
Support and stability
All DRose shoes have have had a nice balance of protection and mobility and the Rose 7 is no different. Unlike a lot of recent shoes, the Rose 7 ankle collar actually has some strength. No flopping around like a sock. These hug and hold the ankle very similar to the the Rose 5. I actually rolled my bad ankle last night on someone’s foot and kept going . I’m sure my ankle exercises had something to do with it but having the Rose 7 support didn’t hurt.
You have a solid external counter as well as internal to keep the ankle locked in an upright. I’m not sure if that overhang on the heel counter actually cages the Boost at all but the heel is locked in regardless.
Here you can see how the collar heights all compare
Stabilty is excellent with no tippiness in the heel and a very large forefoot outrigger.
Adding to the stability is the torsional X bar we saw in the Rose 5/6 and firm strobel sandwiching the Boost (ala JC3 Vector plates) no tippiness anywhere on the Rose 7.
Well done as always Adidas!
Containment
Drose and his herky jerky movement require a lot of lateral containment and the Rose line has never failed to deliver. The biggest key to containment is the raised midsole at the forefoot
Add in the synthetic underlay and hidden lace straps and containment is great.
Primeknit
Just as good as the mesh thanks to the nylon strap under the Primeknit
Overall containment isn’t as good as the Rose 5 but still damn good .
Conclusion
I’ve had to modify every Drose from 5 to 7 in some form or another and it isn’t ideal but I’m not going to give up on a shoe if a cheap quick mod does the trick. I highly recommend swapping the insoles to improve the forefoot fit and cushioning. With the Primeknit version, the shoe is near perfect right out of the box. You get better insoles plus a nicer feeling material. All of the shoes in my rotation perform well in every catagory so it’s not surprise the Rose 7 took the top spot from the Curry 2. I love the Curry 2 and it will continue to be used a lot but the Rose 7 does every just as well but with better cushioning. My ideal set up is PK plus Rose 4 PU insole and a solid outsole whenever that comes out but mesh will do just fine until then.
Is the Primeknit version worth the extra $20? Yes. Usually I’d say no, because usually the only major difference is the material but the $20 gets you better feeling materials, fit, cushioning and that extra pair of insoles. I’d wait for the non translucent outsole if you want the best traction performance like I do.
Should you go out and buy the Rose 7 today? Unless you need something today, HELL NO, not when the Rose line prices fall every year by nearly 50%. Drose and Adidas have an unfair and old stigma attached to them which is bad for Adidas but great for smart, patient consumers. The Primeknit version is already coupon eligible on Eastbay after one week making it $128 and I found the black white and all whites for $103 on Amazon
Good luck to the rest of the shoes I review for 2016, it’s going to be hard to beat these out.
Thanks!!!
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Np b
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How does it feel comparing the two when swapping the insole of the mesh version with the drose4 insoles compared to the cushion of the primeknit version? Is it better wit pu insoles or does it feel the same as the insoles that came with primeknit?
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I like the PU insoles better than the insoles with the Primeknit. A little softer and springier.
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O ok. What i want to know is does the mesh with drose4 insole feel like primeknit version cushion since u said the cushion on pk version a little better? Is it equivalent or does it edge it since its pu? By the way, i appreiciate ur reviews and the way u take time to reply to us. Thank u schwollo
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Oh sorry for the confusion. PU Rose 4 insole feels better than the stock cushioning on the PK version. The PK insole is just a thicker version of the cheapo insole. Always glad to help and reply when I can.
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O i see. The drose4 insole is a little bit wider than the insoles on the drose6. Would it make the fit too tight since im using it in the mesh version?
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No it fills the deadspace in the forefoot so it fits better overall (for me)
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I told you so…I told you so aaaand I told you so.
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Actually you were talking about the crazy explosive. No difference between those uppers on that shoe. The PK Rose 7 fits better because of the thicker insole not the upper itself. Less break in time though.
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Once, again thanks for the thorough review Schwollo! Got a quick question (I’m a cushioning whore): how would you rank cushioning in terms of impact proctection for: rose6, rose7, CL2016, and the Crazy Explosive
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Hard to answer but I’ll try. Crazy explosive is the softest out of all of them but I found it too soft in the forefoot and bottomed out. Rose 6 would be next even without full length boost. Rose 7 and clb are similar in firmness but Rose 7 is thinner in the forefoot . I hope that helps!
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Man it’s shocking that this is your favorite. I just can’t see such a firm forefoot setup being good when it comes to foam and Boost. My 2k4s are firm in the forefoot, but they also have some bounce in the met bag. From the sound of it, there is no bounce or feedback from the Boost in the forefoot, yet they offer great impact protection…?
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The protection is there it is just muted. I liked the way the 6 and the CLB 16 felt better but swapping the insoles improved it a lot. If I didn’t change the insole I don’t think I would have liked them as much. I like a well rounded shoe that does everything (especially traction ) well.
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Fair enough haha, totally understand and agree. I guess with Nike shoes your foot is “closer” to the cushioning (like the 2k4), but I agree, it was definitely close on the Rose 6 (although I hate that my Boost got so firm, I would still be playing in those if the Boost didn’t suck in the forefoot now).
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So u r saying the boost on the rose6 bottoms out and become firm over time?
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I have not experienced that yet but I don’t play in them all the time. Clinton had that problem but that’s one of the few cases I’ve heard about
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Zoom is just low profile goodness when done right. Zoom BB is the best you’ll find imo if you want low and responsive Zoom . It’s genius what they did on that shoe .
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I had the same disappointing experience as Clinton with my Rose 6—really enjoyed playing in them until the forefoot Boost got firm and lost its initial plush feel. I retired them early, which is a shame because the rest of the shoe still had a lot of life left (they make pretty great beaters, though!).
Schwollo, I’m kinda surprised the Zoom BB is your standard-bearer for low profile cushioning. I think I’m roughly the same size as you (I’m 5’11”, 185) and I remember feeling like I bottomed out uncomfortably in them a lot, especially under the ball of my foot. (Put them on again to refresh my memory, but not very helpful—think the Zoom’s pretty much dead by now.)
Anyway, thanks for your reviews! Was really excited to see your Rose 7–CE–CLB16 comparison—had been hoping for one for a minute now. Wish there was an outright winner there. Had high hopes for CLB16, but that heel slip is a concern, and I don’t know how much I’d like the firmer Boost. Need to just go try them on. Loved the Rose 6 but wanted a little sleeker, more responsive fit, if that makes any sense—they fit snug but felt so plush that they didn’t feel quick—something like a Kobe VI upper on Rose 6 tooling, maybe a tiny bit lower to the ground in the forefoot. So then the Rose 7 sounds pretty attractive but maybe not cushy enough, especially at the forefoot. I’d kinda like to play in a lowtop again, though. Like I said above, I need to go try some on (though a lot of the stores at the mall had pretty scant adidas performance offerings last I checked).
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Man try hitting up adidas and seeing if it’s under warranty like Clinton . Usually they give you a year or two .
The zoom BB is just fun to wear and so low to the ground . I never bottom out in it but I can see how that’s possible. Clutchfit drive I is another low profile I like as well as the Kobe IV even with the crappy lunar foam that bottoms out ultra quick ..
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Damn, I hadn’t even thought about trying to return to the Rose 6s adidas—guess I assumed Boost that’d gone firm was a more subjective, harder to prove gripe than an Air pocket that’d gone flat. Too late now—I’ve dogged ’em out pretty good at my day job (carpentry). Like I said, though, they’re great beaters for that.
I also liked the CFD1s a lot. Never had the Kobe IVs. Thanks for your reply.
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Ha just give it a try can’t hurt imo . CFD 1 is great still love playing in mine
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Word. Nice! I wish my CFD 1s were still serviceable—wore those out too. Hearing you say you still play in yours makes me wanna switch things up from my normal mode of hooping in one shoe until it’s done, then replacing. I like the idea of leaving enough life in ’em to still be able to break ’em out every once in a while, especially if newer models aren’t outperforming (smart of you to stock up on all those Soldier VIs, by the way!). [My bad—long tangent starts here.] Tried to work a little rotation about a year or so ago with the JC2, Curry 1 low, and XX9, but that didn’t last long. Started to get plantar fasciitis symptoms right around debuting the JC2s, plus if I pulled the laces too tight, my toes would go numb, and then, after some minor containment issues (I liked your post on knit and woven uppers, so I know you can relate), my forefoot slid way off the footbed on a fairly routine cut, so they became carpentry shoes with a quickness. Then I got my Goldilocks going: Curry 1 lows played nice and quick, but the cushioning was a littler firmer than I like (plus had to fuss with the lacing often to prevent numb toes on these too); thought the XX9 cushioning didn’t live up the the hype and the midsole and outsole felt firm in a clunky way (kinda hard to describe… the forefoot felt a little inflexible, and the edges seemed stiff so that they made lateral movements kinda slappy and prevented my foot from rolling smoothly as I tried to plant)… the whole tooling felt more structured than I’d like(probably to add support to the minimal upper). Those are nitpicks, though—the Curry 1 low and the XX9 were very good, but then the Rose 6 came along and was “juuuuuuuust right!” … Except eventually I wished the upper felt quicker and snugger, like the Kobe VI or the CFD. Thinking the CLB16s would be closer to my ideal, I got the Soldier IXs to tide me over until the CLBs dropped, and the Soldiers are real good, and then the CLBs don’t seem to be exactly what I’d hoped for (heel slip for you, and it sounds like the cushion isn’t as springy as the Rose 6), so I’m still debating between the Rose 7s, KD 9s, maybe the CLBs, and might wait a little while and hear what you, Duke4005, and others have to say about the CFD3s and whatever else comes next. Should just go try some on at the store. And maybe try to build up a rotation and get a couple of those I mentioned above! Anyway, sorry to be longwinded (again).
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Pass on the CFD 3. Cushioning is similar to the 2 not the 1. Upper is nice though. You can find CFD 1 at Ross and marshalls for 40 bucks.
I think you’ll like the Rose 7 the most out of those maybe the clb (tricky fit). Rose 7’feels tighter and quicker . I like to rotate shoes so they don’t get beat down and they seem to last a little longer that way . It was something I did with tennis shoes back in the day .
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My man! Good lookin’ out. Will have to try my luck at Ross and Marshalls—would be cool to play in CFD 1s again and hopefully add the Rose 7 PK to my rotation once they drop with a solid outsole. The more I read about the 7s, the more appealing they sound (guess I was mostly concerned about the firmer forefoot Boost compared to the 6, but sometimes the 6 didn’t feel quite quick enough, so I’m curious to try the 7—hopefully it strikes a happy balance there). Really appreciate how you read our comments and give us good, considered responses!
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Yep marshalls is my new treasure hunting spot. Lol
Yes I know exactly what you’re talking about with the Rose 6. Rose 7 feels distinctly lower to the ground in forefoot.
Ha I like talking kicks what can I say ?
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I hear that! Same here. Cool about the Rose 7 riding lower. Thanks again!
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Does it look like the hard strobel can be pulled? Maybe an extreme mod. I would be curious to see how boost would feel.
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That would be tough to do without redoing the entire upper. I’m sure it could be done or make cutouts in it
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I’ll wait until you do the crazy explosive but Adidas is killing it this year.
Whats your top 3 for current shoes look like?
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Rose 7, curry 2, soldier vi .
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So the primeknit version with the switched insoles and solid outsoles would be better than the mesh roses, and the mesh roses are better than the primeknit version with translucent outsoles? Sorry if that question is a little confusing.
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Oh so on the primeknit version, don’t switch the insoles but get a solid outsole?
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But the mesh roses with solid outsoles are better than the translucent outsole primeknits?
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Yes bc it just performs better on dirty floors .
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The stock insole is better put the swapped PU insole is still better imo
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Ha no it’s my fault I rambled on. You are correct though PK plus switched insoles and solid outsole . PK doesn’t make that big a difference just break in time vs mesh.
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So this is the best traction you’ve ever tested?
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Need more time to decide that. Would have to play with every one of the top tiers on that same surface on the same days.. It’s up there though !
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Probably gonna have to try this shoe now. Every few weeks i have went to my local mall and never have i seen the crazy explosive, clb 2016, or the drose 7. Im gonna wait for a primeknit solid sole too. I hate that ribbon heel tab tho
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Lol yep I didn’t even address that because it’s just useless
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Another great review Schwollo. These sound great. I really want the red primeknit pair – even though I’d rather have a solid outsole. Now I just need to wait for the price to drop on the PKs.
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These will definitely be my next hoop shoe coming from the Drose 5. But I will wait till they drop in price.
I always wasnt sure of PK or flyknit uppers because of containment, is that issue with this PK version totally gone?
and how does drose7 compare to the 5’s?
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Yes containment with PK is gone with this pair. Raised roll cage and the extra nylon ribs underneath the PK prevents over stretching. Rose 7 plays a lot like the Rose 5 which I loved but better traction and more cushioning heel to toe. Similar support and stability. Rose 5 very under rated or overly dogged by Internet “reviewers”.
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I sprained my ankle 2 times in the same game with the rose5. Maybe coincidence but it was the first time with new insoles, they where pretty thick but the edges of the insole rounded up to the sidewalls of the shoe.
I think i rolled my ankle due to that because with that roundness of that insole you create an unstable platform for you feet itself. What do you think?
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It’s possible? Whatever gives you the most confidence is what I suggest and if that means using a thinner insole do that. no point wasting mental energy worrying about an ankle roll!
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Great and informative, granular review! Understood, that the translucent out-soles when it comes to semI-dusty and dusty courts are not ideal, but how bad are they? Do they cause sliding? If yes, how excessive is the sliding and slippage?
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It isn’t bad you just have to wipe when it gets dusty. Similar to the Hyperdunk clear outsole . I did slip once badly in them on a cut but I didn’t wipe prior to that . It just picks up the dust you can hear the “stickiness” when walking around
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Thanks, ok, I just bought the PK but am afraid I’ll be sliding/slipping on semi-dusty courts, and so I’m not sure if risking injury and/or dealing with hit/miss traction is worth it, especially with the non translucent PK’s coming out in Oct…..
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Probably best to wait imo.
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Great!
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What about the sizing compared to Rose6 Primeknit? Same size or go up/down?
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Same size . No extra length or width or sttetchiness
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Schwollo, what can shoe can you recommend considering these properties (Most to least prioritized):
1. Cushioning (Balance between court feel with some plush feeling)
2. Fit
3. Traction
4. Material durability
So far CLB 2016, KD 9, Crazy explosive, and the Rose 7 are in my list (already have the curry’s). And daaaang adidas is knocking into my future rotations. Excellent review BTW.
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Can’t go wrong with any on your list. Kd9 is a nice balanced cushioned set up. Clb fit is very tricky but out of the 3adidas ‘it has the best balance heel to toe. Rose 7 also a nice balance of what you’re looking for. Crazy explosive is overhyped in my opinion . Nice shoe but forefoot cushioning is not there
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Last question, which among in my list has the least/no deadspace in the toe area?
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Crazy explosive probably the closest to foot without excessive length or deadspace. KD 9 next if you size down half a size. It runs long
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Is a plush cushion objectively better in impact protection than a firm one? I mean, is crazyExplosive objectively better in terms of impact protection compared to the DRose7?
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That’s a good question and it is subjective not objective so a lot of it is personal preference . However if there isn’t any cushioning or it’s too thin altogether, then it’s more objective and truthful in my opinion. I’m going to write a breakdown of all three of adidas shoes this week and finish crazy explosive review
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Wohhhh ohhhhhhhhh!
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Awesome review as always! Since we’re almost the same build (5’9ish, 190 lbs), I guess I can say that I have also experienced that “bottoming out” feeling of Boost in my Ultraboosts (the OG version, if that makes any difference). Either I was just in denial about it or Boost really does bottom out under heavier bodies, nevertheless I can see how compressed and flatter my midsole is now compared to brand new pairs. Too bad about that since I sorely wanted to try out the Rose 7 and/or Crazy Explosives. Bottoming out is what has kept me away from Lunarlon shoes since people said it bottoms out quickly. Oh well, hopefully adidas makes a heavy-friendly Boost shoe soon or I’ll be sticking with my Curry 1 and HR 2014 for the foreseeable future.
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Of the three adidas offerings the clb has the best overall cushioning. Not as thin in the forefoot . Going to have a breakdown of all three with CE review. Thanks for reading tazzari!
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Looking forward to that comparison between the three models! Especially the cushioning aspect lol. Really appreciate the time you take to converse with us readers as well, it helps us understand your work that much better.
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Did you find the article? I posted it yesterday
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Definitely my next shoe. I just have to wait for the right colorway. In Europe they started with mesh version with translucent outsole. The worst of both worlds 🙂
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Lol but you live in Europe so that’s pretty awesome right there
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yow have you tried to put a micro g insole? i think it will feel better than the rose 4 insole ahahhaha! i tried the rose 5s with micro g and it was awesome!
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Haven’t yet but I will give it a shot !
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Bro I tried these on the other day and I went with my true to Nike size, 9.5. The forefoot was snug and the toe box had just enough space for me, but my heel felt so elevated and like it was slipping just from walking around the store. I didn’t even try a 9 because then my toes would be in pain. I tried on the mesh version. Should give them another chance or even try going a half size down?
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That’s odd. Try them on at store again in your 9.5 and lace them tightly. Shouldn’t feel
Any slip .
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Are the curry 2’s a lot lighter than the rose 7’s? Do the Rose 7’s slow you down, or can you not feel the difference?
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3 oz lighter than the Rose 7 but no real difference to me. Fit is excellent so I’m not fighting any extra weight
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Hey man, I don’t own a pair of Rose 4s but I do have a pair of Crazy 8s. Those insoles look to be a thick, polyurethane. Do you have a pair of crazy 8’s? If so, how do these insoles compare to the Rose 4? Thanks!
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I don’t have a pair of the crazy 8 but it should work.
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Do u think it will be hard to remove the strobel on drose7?
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Skilled hands might be able too but really hard to get in under the forefoot area especially since no tongue
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Would u advise to do a cutout instead of ripping it all off?
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You can try ? Or you can just buy something that doesn’t require surgery lol
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Hi Schwollo,
Through just looking at your reviews sounds like Rose 7 mesh (b/c better traction) is what I’m looking for.
Recently I’ve had 2 ankle sprains wearing my Jordan xx9s with the speedwrap ankle braces. I’m wondering if it is related to the shoe? Also the other issue I’ve had is traction slippage with the xx9s
on dusty courts. I recently updated to the Zamst Curry braces and has been ok so far first game — but think maybe time to get new shoes. Do you have any suggestions? I’m 5’10 play PG, like something that sticks, good containment and court feel but some cushioning. I have wide feet like you and usually buy up size because of that and wear 2 socks…
My recent favorite shoes maybe were the Adizero rose 1.0 and the rose 2.5. Will Rose 7 suffice? I tried CLB low but didn’t like how high it was off the ground for the in store try on..and heel slip part worries me. Any other possible suggestions? Thanks.
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If you search my review for AJ xx9 one thing I look for is tippiness in the heel and the AJ xx9 and XXX don’t pass my test. Just standing I feel you can roll it so imagine jumping or getting pushed.
I’m actually playing in my Rose 7 now and if the CLB didn’t lock your heel in then go with the Rose 7. It does everything well
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Hi Schwollo,
Thank you for the reply.
So I tried CLB, Rose 7 and CE at store. CLB didn’t have my exact size (tried 1/2 up) but still has what feels like a heel slip. Although I like the low cut of that shoe. Rose 7 felt very stiff in the ankle. Would it be overly supportive if I wear with an ankle brace? Does that loosen up? As in would it cause injury from limiting movement? The CE bootie felt super smooth and great. And the overall feel is more familiar to the xx9 I’m coming from except wider forefoot and more stable. Cushioning was plush. I’m just worried about the primeknit for foot containment. If I just want a shoe that sticks, and great for just sprinting and cuts, would I be better off in the kyries? I tried those at store and traction seemed better than the rose 7. However from reviews, seems like the rose 7 is what I want. I plan to give another try tmrw since the impression I came away with yesterday was that the CE were better but don’t know if it’s a familiar feel or not.
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Try true to size or half size down with the clb for better lockdown even with narrow forefoot.
The Rose 7 would not be overly restrictive even with a brace.. The brace would be stiffer than the shoe (at least usually is). The CE feels greats no doubt I’m just too heavy for them. Kyrie’s are solid but the cushioning isn’t great either. If traction is your top priority, curry 2 would work well as well.
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Thanks for a great review. I’m really interested in PK Rose7.
However, these shoes aren’t available in Thailand, so I can’t really try them on. I have decided to order online and I have one question.
Which size should i get for PK Rose7, since I’m wearing Nike Kobe X 9.5US ?
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Same as your Kobe X most likely . What is your normal shoe size in other shoes
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they are varies, i wear 10US on Vans, 9 on Converse. I measured my feet and it’s about 10.6″
Anyway, my wife already ordered 9.5US from Adidas UK and she got a 15% discount, which is great. All i need to do now is hoping they fit nicely.
Thanks for your reply.
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You should be good with the 9.5
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Just to update. I got mine yesterday. 9.5US fits perfectly.
One more question: I received your newsletter about the new post but when i clicked on the link, it brought to your site but said Page not found. I wonder what happened?
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Been having some errors with WordPress so I’m Not sure what’s up. Lol
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that sucks. I really like your writing. Keep it up good works.
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Thanks !
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Making my final decision on what to buy… Rose 7 primeknit vs mesh. I want the solid rubber outsole on the mesh pairs (I like their colorsways better too) but am worried about forefoot fit because my feet are very narrow / low volume. Is the forefoot material bubble on the mesh version still bigger than the primeknit’s bubble even after swapping to the same insole? Or is it the same after using the same thick insoles?Thanks
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Still bigger since the underlay is stiffer so it forms a bigger bubble . Doesn’t affect anything .
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After playing in them a little longer do you have a final verdict on traction for Rose 7 vs Curry 2? Specifically for slightly to moderately dusty conditions.
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Rose 7 wins by a little . Both great though
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Awesome review bro!! So you think I should wait to buy them when prices drop? When do you think that happens? I’m glad you told me because I was about to order next week. Can’t wait for the price-drops.
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Wait a month or two and you’ll see price drops. Eastbay already allows
Coupons on it and Amazon already has them discounted. I love price drops !
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Thank you so much bro! So in a month or 2, will Footlocker have the same price drops too? Because I can’t wait to buy them with my Footlocker Gift Card.
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They should Eastbay footlocker champs foot action are all the same company
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Thank you so much bro! So in a month or 2, will Footlocker have the same price drops too? Because I can’t wait to buy them with my Footlocker Gift Card!
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Does the Rose7 have better forefoot cushion and court response vs the Curry 2? Also I’m a size 10 in the Kobe IX and size9.5 in KD9 with a slightly wide midfoot so would a 9.5 fit ok in your opinion? Thanks
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With insole swap Rose 7. Both are firm but the Rose 7 is a lot more noticeable bc the heel and midfoot cushioning is much softer and thicker l. I’d go sz 10 still esp if you swap insoles since it will tighten up toebox .
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Ok great I will def try that setup. Did you feel any significant loss in court feel/response with the insole swap?
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Very little. Well worth the cushioning improvement .
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When will footlocker have a price drop on this shoe?
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You can already use discount codes on them but I’m Guessing In a month or two they will cut prices about $20-$25 at first then $40 .
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Great review Schwollo as always! Since you mentioned ‘price drops’, when do you recommend I should buy these from Footlocker?
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One to two months. More colorways equals more sitting time and more inventory taking up shelf space.
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Thank you so much. Me and you are alike because we love to wait when prices drop on shoes, I just didn’t know when. Thank you so much. I love your reviews so please keep it up!
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Finally got a pair of the primeknit 7s.Love the bright orange color. Ankle padding is significant. Went TTS and these seem 1/4 size big in length and almost 1/2 size big in toebox volume. Hoping thicker insole and socks will take up the volume. Traction is great so far. Cushioning is a little firmer in the forefoot than I wanted and perfect in the heel. Hoping the forefoot softens up a bit. Seems like a great shoe so far.
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Mine fit me perfectly. It already comes with a thicker insole but I’m sure a swap would help
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have finally decided, these are the ones lol. i’m gonna be extra picky though and am only gonna get the primeknit versions with the solid traction. it seems like none of the primeknit ones have solid outsoles though?
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I think the black PK coming in October have solid but I’m not sure
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okay. just gonna get any colourway with primeknit and solid outsole. just as long as it isn’t TOO ugly i guess lol.
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lol I like how they look personally
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Just got the white mesh version of these and wow they are amazing. Glad I ditched the crazylight boost 2016 haha. Got it for a decent deal on amazon too
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Nice 101 or so on Amazon ?
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yea it ended up being about 101. Everything you said about the shoe seems to be spot on from what I can tell so I am pleased
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Nice ! Glad to hear it!
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MI adidas on this is up. Currently customizing haha. Will they have the PrimeKnit version on these or should I go ahead and order the mesh version?
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Depends how much you like the colorway you made on mi adidas ? I like the pk version better bc less deadspace but it doesn’t make a difference on court. Or just wait for sales .
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Hey Schwollo. All colorways of the D Rose 7 on Footlocker are all coupon elgible. Even the new Black/Red one.
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Sweet! Now just wait for price drops and add that coupon
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Thanks man! I really appreciate your fast replies.
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How long do you think the transluscent outsole will last playing outdoors?
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Not long rubber is too soft
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hey Schwollo, can you please tell me if the traction difference is noticeable between the PK and mesh version? I see there are some benefits of the PK version but the traction suffers. I will only use them on clean/slightly dusty inside courts. Basically, should I go PK or mesh if I play on relatively clean courts. Thanks 😀
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Clean and slightly dusty you’ll be fine with the PK.
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Hi Schwollo my friend!
I try the D Rose 7 white/red mesh and I have a strange issue: with my normal size 9, I can’t slide the foot into the shoe! Too tight!
With a 9,5, it’ more easy, but the shoe don’t have the correct fit .
Have you the same issue?
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I did not did you loosen all the laces ?
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Yes I loosen all laces… But my feet don’t slide into the shoe. Very strange issue…
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Very odd .
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Still planning to get these for indoor play. I don’t have a wide foot and am size 10 in most nikes, so the kobe 9’s, KD 8’s, and hyperdunk 2013’s. I got the d rose 6’s last year in size 10 too though, but definitely too big. I’m definitely gonna go half a size down this time, but not sure for the primeknit version, you think it might be too tight? If not, then I’ll go for the normal version then. Seems like less of a hassle too cause it seems like such a pain waiting for and getting the primeknit version with a solid outsole lol.
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Now that they have the black Primeknits out, I’m debating if I should switch to those as opposed to keep playing in my mesh pair and struggling to get that “just right” fit.
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Hey schwollo! I just copped a pair of these, and you’re 100% right the strobel underneath the insole makes the bounce almost impossible to feel. I’m not a big dude, 160lb, and I think that swapping insoles still won’t let me feel the bounce to its full potential, ya know? On the heel there’s a circle cut out of the strobel, and you can feel the bounce like crazy though. I’m almost tempted to take a knife and cut some slits into forefoot. But thats some destructive modding shit. What do you think?
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Swapping the insole will at least give you a little cushion between your foot and the strobes. You could cut that piece out but it will be tough since there isn’t a tongue on the Rose 7 toe box and it would probably work . Let me know if you do though !
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A PK version of rose 7 with solid traction is out next week on finish line
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i just checked, its available now…
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Thanks I saw that.just going to wait for sales they aren’t going anywhere lol
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Thanks for the thorough review. I am trying out the curry 3 and the rose 7 PK. I had to put my own sofsole into the curry 3 and they still are hard in the forefoot. Not liking them much even though I’ve been a dubs fan all of my life. I will probably send them back to UA. The rose 7 feels nice but here are my main issues. They felt long in my regular size and my narrow foot moved around too much in the forefoot and I had major heel slip. Putting a sofsole in those helped a bit and changing the upper lace pattern helped as well but they aren’t perfect. They also feel bulky to me and I wear ASO braces so I prefer light shoes.
Here is my quick history. My favorite shoes ever are the Bb2 and the clutch fit drive 1. I like the curry 1 but it was a bit firm. Curry 2 was great but I had two pairs blow out in the cushion of the forefoot (which UA took care of). The 2.5 was fine but I also lost padding in the forefoot quickly. Guess my feet are just boney. Anyway I play 2-4 times a week and am 37 and 170lbs. I play the 1,2. I got weak ankles from years of playing so my ASO are my security blankets.
I can’t decide if maybe the rose 7 needs more time to feel right or should I be trying something different. My last thought is maybe I should look at some lows (since I know that mids don’t do a whole lot to protect ankles) and pair them with my braces. Have you tried that or heard of that? I read all you guys reviews and I love them. They really help me with my purchases. Thanks for everything.
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Thanks for the love . Half size down in the Rose 7 PK should help if you can return your orig pair. If you have braces on you’ll be more protected with any support a shoe can provide. Lows are tricky for me because they either have perfect fit or they have heel slip whereas mids fit me perfectly in the heel since they pull the ankle and heel back. Any other shoes on your radar that you’re considering ? Sounds like you want a quick low profile shoe..
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Thanks for the reply. That’s a good idea about trying a size down. I even considered getting the engineered mesh for more containment since I use my own insoles? I also tried the hyperdunk 2016 and they felt lighter and supportive but I haven’t gone to Nike in a long time since I like to try different things. I bought and returned the crazy explosive since I didn’t like the containment and I didn’t feel that the shoe laced up with the four connections that it had and I worried that the primeknit wouldn’t break when I tightened it too hard. I guess I value a nice comfy forefoot and good containment most of all. I used to have the Kobe 6 and 8 and those felt amazing but that was why I ended up wearing braces.
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You sound like me. The mesh Rose 7s actually feel sloppy once you break them in. I could feel my toes moving around with no problem, and I hate that. The Crazy Explosive was perfect to me except for the outsole, which seems to only be suitable for those nice glossy, waxed floors that we don’t play on on the regular. I also always swap out insoles, and there isn’t one thick enough to take up all that extra room in the Rose forefoot.
Honestly, I’ve been trying to find a replacement for my Soldier 8, but nothing is doing it. I can’t find a shoe with that socks like fit, great cushion, AND beast traction. It’s always two out of three.
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Man you must like your toes super smushed. Maybe half size down for you too Cole? Soldier 8 is a great all around shoe. Just like my soldier vi a lot more lol
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I’m gonna check out the different return policies before I order the Rose PK a half size smaller. NOBODY in my area even stocks the Rose 7, and ONE Finish Line just got the Crazy Explosive and Crazylights earlier this month. I hate ordering stuff online and then having to return them.
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Finishline sucks period lol
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