TRACTION
If a basketball sneaker has a herringbone or almost similar to herringbone pattern, it is almost an automatic bright spot. Herringbone pattern is considered among, if not, the best traction patterns ever created. Well, the mere fact that it is still being used nowadays is already an evidence of its great reputation performance-wise. The real concern is the outsole’s overall durability.
That’s actually the case with Nike Cosmic Unity. It’s herringbone-like traction pattern has no issues performance-wise. It gives good omnidirectional stops and immediately bites to the floor regardless if you are playing indoors or outdoors. However, even though it somehow reminds us of 90’s style basketball shoes, its materials are kind of thin, soft and pliable.
That’s where the issue really is.
While the outsole is competitive and durable enough to last longer than expected, its durability may be lackluster in the long run due to its thin rubber materials, especially when used outdoors. If you are the type of player who loves to slide and drag his feet very often even when playing on blacktops, it is better to think twice before buying this expensive pair.
The performance of its traction will not be a problem. Whether you use it indoors or outdoors, it will probably bite well. But users must take into consideration that Nike Cosmic Unity is not the best option, durability-wise, when regularly playing outdoors. It is safe to have an extra pair or two which you can rotate from time to time when playing outdoors to preserve the pair’s thin outsole for a longer period of time.
The Nike Cosmic Unity is equipped with Air Zoom Strobel. (Photo courtesy of Sneaker Bar Detroit)
