CUSHION AND SUPPORT
On paper, the Nike Zoom Freak 3’s cushion system has the potential to be one of the best on the list of 2021 releases. This is because the pair is infused with cutting-edge technology such as the Zoom Pod, Zoom Air, the ortholite insole, and the ever-responsive phylon midsole.
However, it seemed as if Nike used the right technology in the wrong places.
First, the Zoom Freak 3 is infused with two giant Zoom Pods on the forefoot. The idea was good considering Antetokounmpo’s playing style, but it would have been more effective if there was just one giant Zoom pod for maximum cushion experience.
Also, despite adding a bigger Zoom unit, there is padding between the feet and the unit itself. This is also known as “bottom-loaded”. If the cushion is bottom-loaded, the wearer can’t really feel that there is a responsive Zoom unit on the footbed.
Another downside of the cushion is the Strobel board inside that reinforces the insoles. Due to this board, instead of experiencing the softness of the insole and Zoom unit, it just causes an unstable footbed.
Fortunately, the pair has a good amount of padding on the ankle area and tongue, which is reinforced with a TPU on the heel counter that provides good lockdown and support.
Talking about lockdown and support, the pair’s base is low and wide, so the lateral containment is almost not an issue. But what bothers me is the plastic-like caging on the lateral portion of the pair. Given that the pair is infused with a phylon midsole, the caging is almost a non-factor. The pair’s lateral containment is already secure even without it.
Lastly, let’s look at the most noticeable attribute of the pair — the midfoot strap. The strap adds flavor and aesthetics to the pair, making the Zoom Freak 3 more appealing. But honestly, the strap does not really have an actual use and is nothing but a design for the pair. Supposedly, it provides better lockdown. Unfortunately, it does not serve its purpose.
