REVIEW: Adidas Adizero Rose 2 First Impressions

The Derrick Rose line from Adidas has been a dependable one and all of the releases have performed well. Today, I give you a quick review on how the Adizero Rose 2 felt on foot. I have not played in them yet so what you're about to read are just my initial observations.

FIT: These are really snug. When you put them on, you can really feel that secure lockdown you want from a basketball shoe. I can't say that it is uncomfortable but at the same time it won't get any points for being comfortable either. It's a hardcore basketball shoe with a great low to the ground set up which equals to stellar court feel. It has adequate padding on the tongue and on the lining but it just feels raw. It has that no nonsense feel we got from the Adizero Rose 1.


Read the rest of the review after the cut!!


CUSHIONING: When pushing off the ground, you feel an ok amount of cushioning. Nothing stellar in these, the cushioning setup is very similar to Crazy Light's. We get an EVA internal midsole which isn't the most durable rubber compound out there in terms of remaining "bouncy".

SUPPORT: The ankle straps work. We have to give Adidas credit for the design because the straps are absolutely phenomenal. Since they're elastic, I don't know how long they will last with that grip but so far so good. Once you lace these all the way to the top, you'll feel this superior ankle security you'd like from a performance driven shoe. Just to clarify though, these don't really keep you ankles in place. In fact, you have a wide range of ankle freedom with these on. The security comes from the strap's ability to push your heels deep into the back. It really digs your heels in and that's the key to great ankle support: zero heel movement.

MATERIALS: These things are gorgeous up close. The leather on the toe cap is really nice and they look stunning. The Sprintweb has this little geometric pattern that really makes the shoe pop more. All in all, the shoe is well built and very stable. I can't imagine a scenario that you would tear these apart. They just look and feel tough.


SUMMARY: Get this now. The Adizero Rose 2 already feel like they're better than the previous models and the materials look way better. Cushioning is a bit of a low point but I really don't see it being a deal breaker. Go to your nearest Adidas retailer now and try them on! I'm not saying go buy them but it's really worth trying on.

pic via ISS