Kristian Ferrell
The Jordan Why Not? basketball shoe series is an iconic signature shoe series by Russell Westbrook. The shoes are known for their unique, wacky, and futuristic design, featuring multiple materials and paneling on the upper. The Jordan Why Not Zer0.2 and Zer0.3 have received mixed reviews, with some critics noting that they look like they are pieced together from different shoes, while others praise their comfort and performance. The Jordan Why Not Zer0.4 has been praised for its responsiveness and cushioning, featuring double-stacked Air Zoom units in the forefront. The latest iteration, the Jordan Westbrook Why Not .6, has received positive reviews for its performance, fit, and support, although some users note that the lockdown feature could be improved. The Jordan Why Not series offers a range of colorways and is available for purchase at Foot Locker, with prices ranging from $59.99 to $149.99.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Brand | Jordan |
| Model | Why Not Zer0.2, Why Not Zer0.3, Why Not Zer0.4, Why Not .6 |
| Athlete | Russell Westbrook |
| Design | Futuristic, wacky, bulky, multi-material, multi-panelled |
| Fit | Snug, true-to-size, roomy |
| Features | Zoom Turbo at the forefoot, double-stacked Zoom in the forefoot, Air Zoom units, midfoot strap, inner bootie with plush padding |
| Colorways | University Red, Black, White, Metallic Silver, Topaz Gold, Anthracite, Cement Grey, Habanero Red, Laser Orange, Hyper Jade, Wolf Grey, Speed Yellow, Light British Tan, Cool Grey, Yellow Ochre, Bright Mango, Barely Green |
| Price | $59.99–$200.00 |
| Rating | 4–5 out of 5 stars |
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What You'll Learn
Design and aesthetics
The Jordan Why Not Zer0.2 and Zer0.3 basketball shoes are part of Russell Westbrook's signature line. The design of the Zer0.2 has been compared to a shoe pieced together with parts of different shoes, and the Zer0.3 doesn't stray too far from this blueprint. The Zer0.3 does, however, have a bulkier structure and features a strap at the midfoot. The shoe's midsole design gives it a "speedier" look. The Jordan Why Not Zer0.3 is available in six colourways, including University Red, Black, White, and Metallic Silver. The Jordan Why Not Zero.3 SE has a light-shifting optical illusion accent and a clashing mix of materials to match Russ's signature style.
The Jordan Why Not Zer0.4 is the first to feature double-stacked Zoom in the forefoot, with an extra-responsive cushioning system designed to help transform speed into force. The Jordan Why Not Zer0.6 has been described as "underrated", with good ankle support and a roomy fit. The shoe has been praised for its look, both on and off the court.
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Comfort and fit
When it comes to basketball shoes, comfort and fit are key. A well-fitting basketball shoe can improve agility and stability while also protecting against foot injuries. It's important to find a shoe that provides both stability and flexibility, especially during quick pivots and side-to-side movements. The shoe should fit snugly around the sides of the foot without causing bulging or pinching.
One way to test the fit of a basketball shoe is to simulate game-like actions while wearing them. Walk around to assess general comfort, jump to check stability, and move laterally to gauge the shoe's ability to support side-to-side actions. It's also important to focus on flexibility and cushioning. The shoe should flex at the ball of the foot, and the cushioning should adequately absorb impact to prevent unnecessary strain and injury.
Some basketball shoes are designed with a harder rubber outsole, which offers better durability and grip on outdoor surfaces. However, this can affect the shoe's cushioning and comfort, so it's important to find a balance between durability and comfort when choosing shoes for outdoor play.
There are a variety of basketball shoes on the market that offer both comfort and a good fit. The Nike GT Cut 3 is a low-top basketball shoe that is bouncy, agile, and comfortable. It features Zoom X technology, which provides a soft and squishy feel without compromising stability or speed. The Adidas Dame 9 is another shoe that strikes a great balance between comfort, support, and style. It features a traction pattern that provides reliable grip indoors, and its Lightstrike cushioning system delivers a plush, responsive feel.
For those looking for a more unique and comfortable playing experience, the Xero X1 brings the barefoot movement to the basketball court. It offers a natural foot motion and a unique fit that is especially suitable for wide feet. The Li-Ning Wade 808 5 Ultra is another comfortable option, offering elite traction, well-balanced cushioning, and solid containment at a reasonable price.
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Traction and dust management
Traction is a key feature of basketball shoes, as the sport involves complex footwork and quick movements. The traction of a shoe is determined by its outsole traction and grip, which can be affected by the type of court surface and the presence of dust and dirt.
Court surfaces can vary from highly polished hardwood to dusty composite rubber, and outdoor courts can be even more abrasive. The type of shoe must be matched to the type of court, and the shoes should be retained for basketball play only to keep the rubber in shape. School gyms and warehouses, for example, tend to attract dust and dirt that can interfere with traction.
Traction pads are one solution to the problem of dust and dirt. They make basketball shoes sticky enough to prevent slipping and sliding, which helps to avoid injuries and execute plays. The Step N’Grip’s Travel Size Traction Pad, for example, ensures that dust and dirt do not interfere with performance.
Some basketball shoes also offer excellent traction on dusty surfaces. The Adidas D.O.N. Issue #6, for example, delivers excellent grip both indoors and outdoors, on dusty or clean floors. The Nike Hyperflights and the Air Penny are also said to grip dusty floors well. The Cosmic Unity 3 from Nike is another shoe that is resistant to dust, performing consistently on both indoor and outdoor courts.
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Responsiveness and cushioning
Some basketball shoes are designed to be highly responsive, providing a "responsive and poppy ride". For example, the Sabrina 2 by Nike features a Zoom Air unit at the ball of the foot and a thick shank in the midfoot, resulting in a responsive and bouncy feel. The Nike LeBron 21 Prime 96 is another model that offers excellent responsiveness, combining comfort, traction, and a retro-inspired upper.
Other shoes, like the Anta KT 10, provide a balance between responsiveness and impact protection. The 361 BIG3 5.0 Quick Pro is an ultra-lightweight basketball shoe that delivers exceptional performance without compromising support or stability. It provides a good balance of responsiveness and impact protection, making it suitable for players who value speed and agility.
Some shoes are specifically designed for guards, who often require responsive midsoles for better court feel and speed. The Adidas Harden Vol 9, for instance, is a versatile option for guards and agile players, offering responsiveness, comfort, and support. The Nike GT Cut 3 Turbo is another model that guards may favour, as it provides top-tier responsiveness, traction, and court feel.
Cushioning is another critical aspect of basketball shoes, ensuring comfort and impact protection. The Nike G.T. Jump 2, for example, offers exceptional impact protection with its React foam at the rearfoot and full-length Zoom Air strobel under the insole. The Way of Wade 808 5 Ultra by Li-Ning also stands out for its bouncy cushioning, making it ideal for smaller, quicker, and more explosive players.
Some shoes offer both responsiveness and cushioning, like the Anta Kai 2, which delivers premium materials, elite traction, and solid cushioning. The Puma Scoot Zeros 2 is another option that provides a secure upper and springy cushioning, making it suitable for laterally quick players.
Overall, when choosing basketball shoes, players should consider their specific needs and playing styles. Responsiveness and cushioning are crucial factors that can significantly impact performance and comfort on the court.
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Durability and longevity
The longevity of basketball shoes depends on several factors, including the quality of their materials, the type of surface you play on, your physical build, and your playing style.
The materials used in basketball shoes can significantly impact their durability. High-end shoes from brands like Nike and Jordan often feature premium rubber and innovative cushioning systems, enhancing their longevity. On the other hand, cheaper shoes may be more prone to early wear and tear due to inferior materials. Therefore, investing in shoes with durable uppers, resilient midsoles, and robust outsoles is essential for withstanding intense play.
The type of surface you play on also affects the durability of your basketball shoes. Indoor courts with polished hardwood floors are generally less abrasive than outdoor courts made of concrete or asphalt. As a result, outdoor basketball shoes tend to wear out faster due to rough surfaces, leading to faster outsole deterioration and loss of traction. So, if you frequently play outdoors, consider investing in shoes specifically designed for outdoor use, as they typically feature tougher outsoles and reinforced materials.
Your physical build and playing style can also influence the lifespan of your basketball shoes. Heavier players or those with aggressive playing styles, such as frequent jumping, quick movements, and hard landings, will place more strain on their footwear. This increased pressure can lead to faster tears and wear in critical areas like the forefoot, toe, and heel. Conversely, lighter players or those with a less intense playing style may experience slower wear over time.
Proper storage of your basketball shoes is crucial for prolonging their lifespan. Always allow your shoes to air out in a cool, dry place after each use to prevent moisture buildup, which can lead to bacterial growth, odours, and material breakdown. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight or heat sources, as excessive heat can degrade the rubber and other materials. Using a shoe tree or stuffing the shoes with newspaper helps maintain their shape, especially for players with wide or flat feet who require consistent support.
Additionally, having multiple pairs of basketball shoes to rotate can significantly reduce wear on each pair. This practice allows the cushioning properties to recover while you use another pair. If you play on outdoor courts, consider investing in a dedicated pair of outdoor basketball shoes designed for durability and handling rough surfaces.
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Frequently asked questions
The Jordan Why Not Zer0.3 shoes are part of Russell Westbrook's signature line. They have a bulkier structure and a strap at the midfoot. The shoe features Zoom Turbo at the forefoot and has replaced Unlocked Zoom.
The Jordan Why Not Zer0.4 is the first to feature double-stacked Zoom in the forefoot, which brings responsiveness and cushioning with every step.
The Jordan Why Not Zer0.6 shoes have good ankle support and are roomy. They are good for indoor play but could have better lockdown for outdoor play.
The average customer rating for the Jordan Why Not shoes is 4 out of 5 stars, with many individual colourways receiving 5 out of 5 stars.
The Jordan Why Not shoes can be purchased at Foot Locker, Champs Sports, and Nike.
