The much anticipated Nike Hyperdunk 2010 is here! And the question on everyone's mind probably is...was it worth the wait? Given the success of the first Nike Hyperdunk released in 2008, one can't help but wonder what else could Nike do to improve on this already great shoe. Read on to find out...
STYLE
Fans of the first Hyperdunk would probably notice that the ankle area and external counter heel of the 2010 remain relatively unchanged from the 2008 model which isn't really a bad thing since it was a good and functional design to begin with. The use of Flywire continues to be a very prominent design feature however the material used for the upper has changed from the traditional leather to the synthetic "skin" material also found on the Zoom Kobe V. This gives the shoe a variety of finishes and textures (metallic to matte to "croc skin") which adds a bit of "bling". In fact, at first glance, the Hyperdunk 2010 looks like a plainer, high cut version of the Zoom Kobe V. This would definitely score on-the-court style points and is sure to turn a few heads as you run, jump and slash your way on the hardwood. (I couldn't help but stare for a second when I first saw these being worn by a couple of high school basketball players we were scrimmaging against) But the Hyperdunk 2010 isn't as versatile stylistically as the ZKV since I don't believe the shoe could hold itself up as a lifestyle shoe. The height of the cut gives the Hyperdunk 2010 an awkwardness when worn with casual shorts and the lack of texture and materials in the mid and lower part of the shoe isn't enough to stand out when worn with a pair of jeans. All in all, the Hyperdunk is an attractive shoe but needs to be in its element (the basketball court) to truly stand out.
Rating: 3.5 out of 5
The external counter heel and outrigger on the outsole (purple and yellow parts) are just a couple of components that make the Hyperdunk 2010 a superb court performer.
PERFORMANCE
As I had mentioned in the beginning of this review, one may wonder what else Nike could do to this shoe to improve it from its predecessor and the answer can be found by simply wearing it. Not only does the Hyperdunk 2010 share aesthetic design similarities with the Zoom Kobe V but these similarities also transcend to the performance of the shoe. First, the shoe is extremely lightweight which will help reduce player fatigue and at 11.5 ounces it is 2 ounces lighter than the 2008 model. Secondly, unlike other lightweight shoes out in the market, the Hyperdunk 2010 is extremely stable thanks mainly to the external counter heel, 2nd generation Flywire complimented by the synthetic skin and mesh bootie in the upper as well as the herringbone pattern, midfoot shank and outrigger incorporated in the outsole of the shoe. The upper hugs your foot while the outsole provides a stable platform every time you take a step. The fact that the shoe is also a high cut design adds to its stability. Lastly, the zoom air cushioning of the Hyperdunk 2010 is softer than the 2008 model which helps reduce shock to the knees and back. The improved cushioning still allows the player to "feel" the court which is necessary when playing at a competitive level.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
The herringbone pattern and midfoot shank in the outsole provides the shoe with exceptional traction and stability.
OVERALL
The Nike Hyperdunk 2010 is definitely an improvement from the 2008 model. It is truly a superb on the court performer that can compliment a variety of playing styles. The shoe is lightweight and provides responsive "court feel" for players with an uptempo, "stop-on-a-dime" kind of game but the stability and cushioning of the shoe will benefit players with a back to the basket and "pound-it-inside" game. It may not be the best shoe to wear for a night out on the town (the 2008 model wasn't much of a lifestyle shoe either) but if you are simply looking for one of the best basketball shoes for the purpose of helping improve your "game" on the court then look no further than the Hyperdunk 2010.
Rating: 4 out of 5
Photos courtesy of www.footlockerunlocked.com
It looks very nice. And the combinations of the colors was very good. Thanks for sharing.
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