Basketball shoes and Nike are as synonymous as movies about sharks and "Jaws." The Oregon company started in the 1970s with a focus on running but shifted to basketball in the early 1980s, thanks in large part to an endorsement from a guy named Michael Jordan. In the intervening years, Nike has gone on to redefine the game with cutting-edge shoes that are light, fast and can both take and dish out punishment.
Nike Air Jordan XX3
The Nike Air Jordan XX3 received nine out of ten points -- the highest score ever -- on KicksGuide. The shoe not only features Jordan's famed jersey number, but it is all function without the gimmicks. The Air Jordan XX3 is the "best on court basketball performance Air Jordan ever," according to KicksGuide reviewers. Fast, responsive and powerful, the Air Jordan XX3 almost lives up to its legendary namesake. The Nike Air Jordan XX3 could be found for $135 in early 2011.
Nike Zoom Kobe VI
The Nike Zoom Kobe VI comes in nearly as many colors as the numbers put up by its namesake. They feature next generation Flywire technology to make them one of the lightest basketball shoes ever. A dual-density sock-liner conforms to your foot to make them some of the most stable and comfortable shoes as well. The Nike Zoom Kobe VI retailed for $225, as of early 2011.
Nike LeBron 8
The LeBron 8 is probably the most durable of Nike's recent offerings. The LeBron 8 is built around a Max Air 360 unit with superior lockdown control. It also incorporates Flywire technology to make it as light as it is comfortable. According to Nice Kicks' reviewers,the LeBron 8 has an optimal range of motion -- especially for the first step and quick cuts of its signature player. The Nike LeBron 8 could be found for around $160, as of early 2011.
Adidas TS Heat Check
Not to be left in the cold by Nike, Adidas burns up the court with its own lightweight speed demon -- the TS Heat Check. Nice Kicks calls the TS Heat Check a great shoe. Comfortable, responsive and strong, the TS Heat Check has reviewers exclaiming, "Plain and simple, Adidas basketball is back!" The Adidas TS Heat Check sold for $110 in early 2011.
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