NBA superstar Russell Westbrook’s 4th signature pair with the Jordan Brand is now up for grabs. To help you decide if the pair is worth the cop, here is an in-depth performance review of the Jordan Why Not 0.4.

The Jordan Why Not 0.4 was released in early 2021. (Photo courtesy of Sneaker Bar Detroit)

After a second-round loss to the eventual champion Los Angeles Lakers, Russell Westbrook left the Houston Rockets and found himself in a new territory playing alongside Bradley Beal in Washington this year.

The 2017 MVP is currently putting up 19.3 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 9.7 assists in his first seven games with the Wizards while donning his fourth signature pair with the Jumpman team.

This dynamic pair is very Westbrook-like. From the 32-year old’s vibe and swag to his flamboyant and unique fashion style, this signature shoe really represents the on and off-the-court personality of the nine-time All-Star.

With that being said, here is what you can expect from the newly-released Jordan Why Not 0.4.

The Jordan Why Not 0.4’s style nods to Westbrook’s unique character. (Photo courtesy of Sneaker Bar Detroit)

MATERIALS

The Why Not 0.4 is a combination of style and performance. The materials provide a good lockdown and ventilation, although it takes a significant amount of break-in time to reach the full potential of the uppers.

The upper is bombarded with different materials. From open-celled mesh to leather, this pair has it all. It is also worth taking note that there are variations in the materials and panels infused depending on the colorway. One example is the “Facetasm” iteration that features synthetic and suede uppers, which understandably makes the retail price of this shoe a bit higher.

The materials are thin but are reinforced by different overlays. The built of the overlays is different from the previous models since this pair does not offer overlays atop other overlays, a set-up to make the shoe appear lighter. The skin fuse on the forefoot is soft and pliable which gives added comfort when running and jumping.

While the pair provides excellent performance and flex-worthy aesthetics, Jordan Brand could have put more quality in the materials used.

Why Not 0.4’s outsoles are infused with little multi-directional nubs. (Photo courtesy of Sneaker Bar Detroit)

TRACTION

The outsoles are infused with little multi-directional nubs which should remind you of the Nike Kobe 10. Despite the two pairs’ similarity, Why Not 0.4’s outsole compound is harder and firmer than the Kobe 10’s. This makes the outsole very durable when being played indoors or outdoors.

In addition, these little nubs are multi-directional, so any movements, shifts, and slides will be covered by its bite. The small gaps in the traction pattern easily accumulate dust when playing in black tops, but a simple wipe will do the trick and make the outsoles return their grip.

Depending on the colorway, the Why Not 0.4’s outsoles are made of either translucent icy soles or a solid rubber compound, so it is easy to satisfy the preference of the users when it comes to the materials of the outsoles. The pair is also infused with TPU unit in the midfoot portion of the decoupled outsoles for added protection and stability.

The Why Not 0.4 is stacked with double Zoom Air unit. (Photo courtesy of Sneaker Bar Detroit)

CUSHION and SUPPORT

The Why Not 0.4 banners a double-stacked Zoom Air unit that is visible in the forefoot area of the outsoles and has a different set-up from its predecessor. Along with its bombarded Zoom Air unit in the forefoot portion, the midsole of the pair is infused with a full-length phylon material which is very firm and lightweight.

The integration of the double-stacked Zoom Air and the full-length phylon midsole offers excellent compression, a comfortable experience, and a highly responsive cushion system. This cushioning system offers an excellent court feel and stability.

And despite the absence of the unlock system from the previous models, the Why Not 0.4 provides a good lockdown system due to the firm and durable eyelets in the forefoot. The side panels ensure a good lateral containment, and the ankles are very much supported by thick paddings in both the tongue tab and heel counter.

The Why Not 0.4 is a bit snug in the forefoot. (Photo courtesy of Sneaker Bar Detroit)

SIZE and FITTING

The pair has a wider base than the forefoot. Users still have the option to go true to size if they prefer too much lockdown due to the pair’s snugness. However, it is highly recommended to go up half a size for a little window and breathability. Wide footers are suggested to go up a full size for best fitting.

OVERALL RATING

The Jordan Why Not 0.4 is excellent style-wise and the evolution of the Westbrook line in terms of aesthetics is pretty much in a good direction. However, considering that Westbrook has a unique fashion, and is currently signed with arguably the most famous basketball brand, Jordan Brand could have implemented higher quality materials.

The brand focused a lot on the lightness of this signature pair, but knowing Westbrook’s go-hard-to-the-basket-style, the Jumpman team should have equated this to the style and the quality of the materials. Despite this, the Why Not 0.4 can absolutely provide good performance on and off the court.

The Jordan Why Not 0.4 nets an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5.

WHERE TO BUY

The Russell Westbrook Jordan Why Not 0.4 is now available at selected Nike stores with a US$130 price tag.