Nike Court Vision Low sneakers with a gum sole

About this model

Nike built the Court Vision Low around the look of 1980s basketball shoes. Fashion writers have pointed out how much it borrows from the Air Force 1, down to the shape and the perforated toe box. The upper is put together differently, though, with overlays stitched down onto a synthetic leather base. The collar is low-cut and padded.

Nike says the synthetic leather softens with wear and picks up a vintage look over time. Perforations on the toe and along the sides let air in, and a rubber outsole sits underneath. Inside, it is simpler than it looks. When testers cut it in half for a lab review, they found no foam midsole at all. The cushioning comes from a removable insole 4.3 mm thick, and the stack measured 21.1 mm at the heel and 11.1 mm at the forefoot. That leaves very little impact protection underfoot.

Breathability is its strong point, with full marks, 5 out of 5, in their test. The sole also bends more easily than average, and the heel counter held firm when they pressed on it. Grip is weaker. The outsole scored 0.23 in their friction test, which they call too low for a casual sneaker, and they say it is not the best choice for all-day wear. The upper creases easily. Reviewers report that it fits true to size, with a toe box slightly wider than average near the big toe.

Sources: nike.com · RunRepeat · Highsnobiety