My Current Top Ten
Written by schwollo
As some of you know, my rotation doesn’t change just because I get a new puppy calendar each year.
There are so many outlets to get older models for less money that it is just dumb to just confine yourself to the current year’s offerings. eBay is a great way to find shoes for less and I have rarely had a poor purchase experience.
I decided to extend my top 5 into my top 10 because some shoes just shouldn’t be left off my list and I actually rotate them in (just not as often as the rest). I have a review for each of them and I added the links below.
You’ll notice that only two shoes from 2016 have made into my rotation and the Hyperrev is on the fringe now because it plays so similarly to the Soldier VI.
I’m going to write an approximate percentage breakdown of how much weight I personally place on each aspect in a future post. In general though, traction is the most important to me, followed by fit and cushioning, stability, lateral containment, support and lastly materials and ventilation which I never mention anyways.
Sorry I was too to add pics but click on the reviews and there are plenty. I’ll try to add pics later this week.
I look for a balanced shoe so all of my top 10 excel in every category. The original AJ XIV would be in here if they were wearable.
Honorable mentions
Huarache 2K5
Better than the 2k4 in every aspect. Excellent fit, Zoom feel, traction and stability. Not as much love for it due to lack of marketing IMO
Hyperrev 2016
Just a solid shoe all the way around. Exceptional traction and great cushioning are the highlights of the HR16. Can be had for under $69 now
The Top Ten
Zoom Kobe I
I still can’t believe how I got these for $35 at Footaction back in the day. I bought three pair that day just because I was curious about the shoe and continued to buy them on the cheap after I fell in love with them. Excellent traction and more than normal cushioning for a Kobe. This was my first replacement for the AJ XIV.
Zoom Kobe IV
I’ll admit it, this Kobe ad made the Del Sol look sexy as hell. And of course I was curious how a low would play. The Kobe IV was probably the first Kobe that actually didn’t go on discount quickly and actually appreciated in value. Still my one of favorite lows because it does everything well. I wish the Lunarfoam lasted longer though.
Rose 5
Rose 5 Review
You’ll notice I never mention Rose 1-4 and that’s because the cushioning in those were antiquated as Adidas was being too lazy to add any innovative cushioning.. and now that Boost exists, look what it’s done for sales.
Rose 6
Not as fast and quick feeling as the 5 or 7, some days my legs need that extra cushioning. Sure it’s not full length Boost but the majority of the pounding is at the forefoot and heel and Adidas put plenty of Boost in the Rose 6. It isn’t as soft as the Crazy Explosive in the heel but it makes up for it in the forefoot.
Clutchfit Drive I Mid and Low
Clutchfit Drive Low Review
Just realized I never wrote a full CFD I Mid review..
Great performance all around even if the traction is the bottom end of my preference. Although I tried all UA shoes from the Black Ice to Spawn , this was the first UA shoe that did it all.
Nike Zoom BB 1
I hadn’t played in the BB for awhile and I forgot what a fun and great shoe it was. Low profile and quick without compromising cushioning. Before pure Boost, there was pure Zoom.
Soldier VI
I love this shoe and was happy they hit outlets and discounts hard because it was only a team shoe. I think I paid $55 on average with the Soldier VI. Big fat Zoom, excellent traction, supportive and stable, these did and still do it all.
Curry 2
I did not like the Curry One much due to the underwhelming Charged cushioning. And while the Curry 2 cushioning is firm, at least it provides some bounce and impact protection. It’s just a quick shoe that does everything well. Of course the main reason I love the Curry 2 is the awesome traction. Not many traction patterns work this well aside from the AJ XX8, Kobe IX and..
Curry 2.5
Geez I waited this long to play in these and put in a full review. Improved slightly on the Curry 2 fit, cushioning and containment while maintaining flexibility. Best of all they aren’t selling great so that means some price cuts. These are currently battling the Rose 7 for the top spot even though the cushioning isn’t as nice as the Rose 7.
Rose 7
I’ve never wiped less .. the outsole of my shoes that is.
The Rose 7 does everything just as well as the Curry 2 but improved upon the traction as well as the cushioning. Forefoot Boost is a little thin and firm but adding the PU insole made it perfect for me.
schwollo.com 
they are going to retro kobe 1 in 2007 a think
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Yea I saw those pics. Might be time to restock lol
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You got a lot of Curry and Rose in there lol
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2017 🙂 my bad 🙂
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we have similar tastes in balling shoes. the OG xiv was the GOAT. strong in all areas except durability.
other favorites: kobe iv, lebron ii, kobe i, zoom bb, drose 6 pk, aj xii/xiii, soldier ix.
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Yep very similar. Lebron II would have made the lost but mine are starting to fall apart everywhere.
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Nice list Schwollo!! My personal Top 5 basketball shoes are: Air Jordan XII, Air Jordan 2011, D Rose 6, Curry 2 and Air Pippen 3!
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Nice! Everyone loves the xii loo
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Too bad I sold my Kobe 4 and D Rose 5, now the hunt begins for the BB 1 (I only have the BB 2) and I will wait for the mi adidas of the D Rose 7. Started playing again lately after almost 3 months, not yet in full health but slowly getting there. And also selling most of my shoes that are not included in your top 10 haha.
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Don’t rush back Jeff! You won’t miss the Rose 5 after you get the 7 .
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My current favorites and my all time favorites will never line up just due to nostalgia and how much I treasured my 1 new pair of kicks I got at the beginning of every season. So my all time favorites:
Grade 7 – Reebok Kamikaze 1 (black and purple)
Grade 8 – Fila Grant Hill 1 lows (white and navy)
Grade 9 – Fila Stackhouse 1 (white and navy)
Grade 10 – Nike Air Super CB (white and navy…slept on for Barkleys, loved these)
Grade 11 – Nike Air Garnett 1 (white and navy)
Grade 12 – Nike Air Max Zoom Team II (whole team got these in our school colors white and green, ending my navy streak)
Oh yeah, got a special place for the Reebok Pumps I got in like 3rd grade. Not the first ones that were like boots, but the lower ones around the time Dee Brown won the dunk contest in them. The first kicks I ever really wanted bad, I asked for pumps for like 2 years before I got them. I was all into that pump gimmick!
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Air Garnett’s were great . Gotnthem on the cheap for 30 bucks at athletes foot lol. Nostalgia is fun isn’t it?
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Got a pair of old cfd 1’s on ebay. Added a pair of full length zoom air insoles. Works like a charm, tightens all the deadspace and boosts the worn out micro g. Also got a pair of old adidas rose 5’s, went TTS but still roomy in the forefoot. Added a pair of crazy comfort insoles, and bam! Cushioning heaven! Might work for my upcoming rose 7’s too! Can’t wait!
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$154 (before tax) for a pair of Hyperrevs and Rose 7’s using Eastbay’s current promos:
20% off clearance for Hyperrevs (automatically applied when you add to cart)
$50 off $200 or more (code EMSALE50)
Copied/pasted from checkout:
ORDER SUMMARY – $153.98
Nike Zoom Hyperrev 2016 – Men’s
NIKE ZOOM HYPERREV 2016 – MEN’S
$63.99 (after 20% off)
Product #: 20224001
Size: 10.5
Qty: 1
Selected Style: Black/Metallic Silver/Dark Grey | Width – D – Medium
*this item ships Free!
*excluded from $ off or % off discounts
20% off Select Items
adidas D Rose 7 – Men’s
ADIDAS D ROSE 7 – MEN’S
$139.99
Product #: B54136
Size: 10.5
Qty: 1
Selected Style: Derrick Rose | Scarlet/Black | Width – D – Medium
*this item ships Free!
Product Total:$203.98
Estimated Tax:TBD
Shipping & Handling:FREE
Gift Box:TBD
Subtotal:$203.98
Discounts:-$50.00
Gift Cards:TBD
Total:$153.98
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Nice deal !!
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I typically wear an ASO ankle brace, would the Curry 2.5 accommodate a brace? Or do you have recommendations for shoes that offer enough support to not need a brace?
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Depends on the brace .curry wore his Zamst braces with these but the ankle collar will
Be tight or the tongue might get lopsided due to the brace. Curry 2, 2.5 pretty good even without a brace imo bc it is very stable around the heel. Maybe even the curry 3 as well. Rose line and soldier ix very good in terms of support .
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Deciding based on traction and support, in what order would you recommend the following?:
Curry 2.5, Rose 6, Rose 7, Adidas CE
Thank you
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Rose 7, curry 2.5, Rose 6, CE
Pretty much how my top 10’goes (no CE though, traction is good not great)
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Excellent work, you’re the most true to function reviewer out there. I’m currently looking for my next shoe, I’m in love with my Clutchfit 1’s but possibly looking for a change. Can’t find any Soldier VI’s on EBay so I’m leaning on the Soldier IX (high forefoot), or possibly Super.Fly 4 (lack of support and narrow). Each have their flaws, as mentioned. What do you think?
For reference, I recently bought the Crazy Explosives, but the forefoot was too hard. My previous favorites have been BB4, Clutchfit 1, Melo M9’s. Should I just get get another pair of Clutchfit 1’s or give the IX’s a shot? Thanks.
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I’d be patient and wait for a soldier vi to pop up but I know how antsy we can all be. Soldier ix is similar feeling, a little more restrictive and supportive but Zoom isn’t as fun. It’s a big change from the CFD 1. CFD 1 can be found on eBay for cheap btw. Zoom
Bb4 was awesome after break in (I have Review up on here). Let me know how you decide !
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Thanks for the quick reply. I read your BB4 review, I remember how painful they were to break in. Had 3 pairs, wore them till the heels rubber fell off and the shox separated from the heel counter.
I’ll keep waiting for the VI, do they play lower to the ground in the forefoot than the Soldier IX? The IX felt really high and flat footed to me. Do any other shoes play similarly to the Clutchfit 1s in therms of low-to-the-groundness and cushioning? I’ve played basketball my whole life, 34 now and knees are pretty shot, but still play twice a week. Thanks.
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lol nice ! Soldier vi plays a little lower maybe? Feels less restrictive . Harden vol 1 feels pretty low to the ground. Brandblack Rare Metal feels a lot like micro g but traction isn’t so great. You can get micro g feel from the UA torch 4. Let me think more about other kicks with that low to ground feel (Kobe’s come to mind too)
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I played tonight in my Melo M9s and forgot how awesome zoom was after playing in my tired Clutchfit 1s for a year. Traction was great and forefoot and heel cushion were both awesome. How do the Soldier VI’s feel compared to the M9s in terms of cushion and forefoot height? Thanks.
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Also, could you please give me some advice on sizing for the VI’s? I have a slightly wider foot. I’m a size 10 in Soldier IX, Clutchfit Drive 1, most dress shoes and a Size 10.5 in Melo M9, BB4, most running shoes. Thanks.
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Forgot to mention I was a size 10.5 in Lebron X Elite as well. Thanks.
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Do you like space in the front or do you wear them where your toes touch ?
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Melo m9 is actually softer than the soldier vi. I really liked the zoom on the m9. Traction is also very good with the m9. You’re not giving up or losing much with either pair. I feel like the soldier vi is a little leaner and quicker feeling though
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Thanks again for the reply. I’m going to stick with what works for me a pick up a third pair of Melo M9’s, and another pair of Clutchfit 1’s.
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Not a bad idea at all. Sticking to what works and what you like is a wise move .
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Played in my M9’s again the other night. Popped the forefoot zoom on my right foot – this pair was actually fairly new. Already popped the heel zoom on my right foot in another pair about a year go, and I’m not a heavy person, ~160 lbs. Could this be because it’s a relatively older shoe now at 4-5 years old? Already picked up a third pair on Ebay, in transit at the moment.
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It might be a combo of age and design since the forefoot protrudes a little . Heel zoom might have popped bc it looks like it’s sealed in the middle (usually it’s just one piece I think). My pair has a line in the middle of the Zoom. M9 can be had for cheap so that’s the good news lol
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I wonder why the XX8 SEs aint in your top 10. For me it is the best overall shoes ever.
Below are my personal Top 5 of all time :
1. Jordan XX8 SE (does everything well, I went half a size down and the fit is perfect)
2. Kobe VI (everything was perfect for me when I had young legs… except traction could be better)
3. Kobe IV
4. Zoom BB I
5. OG Air Jordan 14s (ummm… those OG fat zoom pads…)
Honorable Mentions: Soldier 6s, UA Clutchfit Drive (if only the traction was better…), Rose 6
After numerous ankle sprains… I don’t mess with low tops anymore when I play in competitive games..
I have picked up a pair of solider 6s after reading your review. Great shoes overall, does everything well but the mid-sole is a bit thicker than I’d like them to be (I’m a shifty point guard)
I have yet to try the Rose 7s though.. gonna pick them up on sale and hope they are good enough to shake up my Top 5
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Just never felt connected to the ground enough with the XX8. Felt a little high and while Zoom felt great, felt a little slow bc of the height. I like a little sturdier upper as well. Great show overall though but I’d rather play in my xivs which is my pick for top Jordan performer if you didn’t know. Kobe vi was great I wish traction were better although it’s pretty good after break in .
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Couldn´t hold I decided to give Curry 2 a try since I´m still scared of the 2.5s fit, I ordered a pair of Dark Knights and went half size up to 11.5. Was about to get my self another pair of CF 1s but the dust really gets them, I´ve been playing a lot in my hyperrevs 2016 and boy are they great, there is something about that diamond traction and the one on my old migro G Jukes that gives me a lot of confidence.
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Ha ha 2 is still fantastic I picked a few up since ua has them on clearance and I had s MyFitnessPal coupon ! Hyperrev traction is great too..gotta write a review on the Juke one day soon! Have a few in the closet still
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I got my pair of Jukes about 3 years ago for something like $20, I hope the Currys fit is somewhere near as good
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I think you’ll be happy with the fit. Jukes got super cheap .fun shoe great traction cushioning was a little squishy but still good
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Just got the Currys, they are great, tried them on after a whole day wearing my kobe x and the cushion felt like a rock tho, took them today for a test and didnt feel as hard, I remember the 2.5 been a bit softer, maybe due to the insole
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Honestly you can’t switch between Zoom or Boost and then to charged.. really like night and day I’ve done it before too hahah however I really like how charged plays on court for me
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Sure, a light shoe can be ruined if the cushion is to soft, the good thing about the 2s is that between the traction and the cushion yo feel like a ninja without craking your knees and ankles like on the kyries
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And yes the 2.5 feels softer due to insole
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How often do you update this list??? love your site. I am also taiwanese american and agree with a lot of your reviews
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I need to update it just been busy .
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Avid follower and finally picked up a LeBron Soldier VI, one of your favorites. However, I am not sure they are real. The soles don’t bend very much, the tongue is very thin and no swoosh sign on the insoles. Any ways I can tell they are the real deal?
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Send it to me via ig or twitter or Facebook page (schwollo for all three)
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Can’t say I’ve seen fake soldiers but the thin tongue sounds odd. Insoles should have the LBJ crown inside
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When do you plan on updating this page?
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Nothing has really changed. Hyperdunk 2017 only real new one in the top five. Aj xxxi and Kobe Adm are all subs for Kobe iv when it dies. Explosive bounce is also a sub but not really sure where it fits.
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Hey Schwollo! Just wanted to ask some advice about what pair to get next
I’m 19, 5’6, 135 pounds. I play 1-3, but mostly undersized SG (as in really undersized. Normally competing against 5’10-6’0 guys in my position). I’m a knockdown shooter + extra passer (weird right) so the best I can describe my style of play is an Evan Turner who knocks down catch and shoot Js, or a 2nd year Bradley Beal; not much ISOs, knock down shooter from catch and shoots.
I don’t play fast (I just look fast cause I’m usually the shortest or 2nd shortest guy in the whole tournament), and I don’t really have mad hops, but I do value Cushion the most out of every category. I want shoes that give me good impact protection and good court feel. Next category that I really need is fit. I usually want my shoes to feel really comfortable and accommodating to my feet. The last category that I REALLY need is durability. I only play on the hardwood in tournaments. When I’m playing casually, I usually do on rubberized outdoor courts so durability is a must. I can live with average performance from the rest (traction, stability, containment, etc)
My current rotation is the following (will contain some pros and cons)
1.) Dame 2
+ My all time favorite. Did everything well
+ One of the best cushioning setups for a guard/forward
– Dust collector (cannot emphasize that more)
2.) Lebron 14
+ Good impact protection
+ Super-Ultra-Durable
– below average support for a mid-top
3.) Superfly 2017
+ Excellent materials
+ Responsive traction
– Super stiff upper
– A bit heavy on foot
4.) Curry 2
+ Beastly traction
– Suffocating ankle collar (My ankles always go numb)
– Not that durable…
5.) Ultrafly 2
+ Super Outdoor-friendly shoe
+ Good impact protection
– Hella heavy. Restricts my game
– Sits hella high
Some of the shoes that I have tried (and didnt like) are Kyrie 2 (horrible cushion), Dame 3 (really stiff midsole and heel), Hyperrev 2016, hyperdunk 2013, kd5 elite.
Sadly, both my Dame 2 and Curry 2 are near the end of their lives and I will retire them really soon 😦 Upon reading your jordan 31 low review, it actually convinced me to order one hahaha. You spoke highly of it, and now, a pair is coming this Saturday. Hoping for the best. Can you recommend another pair for me?
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I’ll get back to you tomorrow been a long day!
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aye
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You’d like the Dame 4 especially the fit. I’d also wait on the Kd 11 bc it looks like it will have excellent cushioning and fit (but who knows). Hardens might be too heavy for your tastes. You could also try to find some dame 2’s on eBay if you really loved them. Probably really cheap as well. Stock up on the shoes you love esp when they are discounted heavily. You trust it already and know exactly how it plays so you don’t risk wasting any money as well.
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