The Nike Zoom Freak 4 offers the best of both worlds. Continue reading below for an in-depth Nike Zoom Freak 4 performance review.
Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo can now boast arguably the best-looking sneaker from his main signature line: the Nike Zoom Freak 4. But does that equate to the pair’s performance?
To give light to the big question, here is an in-depth review of the Greek Freak’s latest signature pair.
MATERIALS
Basic materials boost Zoom Freak 4’s lightweightness
The Zoom Freak 4’s upper is built with a three-layered material. The toe box is infused with a basic and flimsy textile that provides breathability and flexibility in forward movements. The toe cap is then supported with a fuse for additional durability.
Moreover, the medial portion of the upper is built with a more durable mesh for better stability, while the ankle portion of the pair is infused with the tightest mesh for better overall lockdown and protection.
TRACTION
Zoom Freak 4’s traction pattern reinforces Giannis’s playing style
Nike Zoom Freak’s fourth installment is infused with a generated, omnidirectional traction pattern on its rubber outsole. The pattern is designed for multidirectional movements which is perfect for the Greek Freak’s quick footwork and aggressive playing style.
Therefore, if you are looking for a pair that will get you covered when making sudden shifts, forward dashes, sideways drags, or even quick backpedals, the Zoom Freak 4 is a great choice.
However, it is noteworthy that the Zoom Freak 4’s outsole is thin and flimsy. Hence, it is highly recommended to only use the pair when playing on a wooden court.
CUSHION AND SUPPORT
The decoupled rubber outsole adds flexibility to the Zoom Freak 4
Giannis’ aggressive playing style may cause too much strain and stress to his feet. Thus, a responsive cushion system is imperative to the two-time MVP’s sneakers. And just like the Zoom Freak 3, the latest signature pair’s cushion setup is a bit unorthodox.
The forefoot of the Zoom Freak 4 is infused with two Zoom Air units which are bigger compared to the pair’s predecessor. The forefoot cushion is soft and springy which is perfect for hard and aggressive drives and dashes.
In addition, the signature pair is reinforced with Strobel board and Cushlon foam for better stepping comfort and overall rebound while playing. More importantly, the Zoom Air pods are built as such along with the airflow tunnels to decrease the pair’s weight and enhance its playing speed.
Moreover, the pair offers arguably one of the best support throughout the Zoom Freak line. Its wide base gives more balance and stability whether moving forward, backward, or side-by-side.
The Zoom Freak 4 also possesses an excellent heel-to-toe transition for quick movements and acceleration. It also gives better mobility and stability through the reinforcement of TPU heel counters, paddings, and lace locks.
The downside of the cushion set up, however, is the absence of shank on the torsion system. While it’s true that the lack of shank boosts the pair’s playing speed, it costs the pair’s torsional support and longevity of the cushion system.
SIZE AND FITTING
The Zoom Freak 4 offers an excellent lockdown
The Zoom Freak 4 runs true to size. Though some players might feel a bit snug on the toe box, its wide base gives more room that makes it more comfortable to play in. Also, going half or a full size up is also a necessary option for ballers who prefer wider fit.
OVERALL RATING
The Nike Zoom Freak 4 is an excellent everyday basketball sneaker. It offers a great amount of cushion and aggressive traction. Moreover, a pair is much cheaper compared to other available signature sneakers.
However, it is noteworthy to consider the pair’s longevity by avoiding or maybe lessening its usage when playing in black tops.
The Nike Zoom Freak 4 nets an overall rating of 9.5 out of 10.
WHERE TO BUY
The Nike Zoom Freak 4 is available at selected Nike stores or other authorized retailers for US$130 and US$135 depending on the colorway.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
Yes. For overall playability, the Nike Zoom Freak 4 offers better cushion set up, stability, and traction.
Yes. The Nike Zoom Freak 4 is flexible when it comes to the position. Meaning, it is best suited for players whose arsenal depends on running and driving.
Yes. Overall, the Nike Zoom Freak 4’s specs are excellent. The absence of the shank on the torsion system is designed to be an actual advantage on the court.
We hope that our Nike Zoom Freak 4 performance review helped in your search for the basketball shoe that’s perfect for you. Stay tuned for more Dribble Media sneaker reviews!
