You’d think that adidas would take a break after making a flashy, top-performing shoe, that they’d say: “Aw, it’s the NBA lockout. Nobody will really pay attention if we slap another colorway on the adiZero Rose 1. In fact, let’s make it fluorescent red and call it the adiZero Rose – wait for it – Rose!” Donuts all around!
Instead, adidas upped the ante.
Going upon looks alone, it’s a beautifully crafted shoe, sleekly built with high-quality materials. The cracked patent leather on the toe box is a nice touch, as is the cubic graphic upon the SPRINTWEB. You’ll see the hands of Derrick Rose upon the kicks – from the number one embossed upon the lace housing, or the words “All Flights Cancelled” boldly claiming that only Chicago is the city that’s allowed to soar. These small touches really let you see how involved Mr. Rose is with the production process.
“But how about the performance?” you’re probably asking.
It isn’t as light as the Crazy Light, but then again, it wasn’t made to be the lightest shoe ever. It was tailor-made for one of the most explosive players in basketball today. Its sturdy, light frame takes a page from the aforementioned Crazy Light, utilizing SPRINTWEB on the upper. The mesh on the adiZero Rose 2, however, unlike the Crazy Light, seems stronger and more substantial.
A metal gold line graphic leads all the way from the mid upper to the most noticeable addition from the previous incarnation of the adiZero Rose 2. There’s still GeoFit to support the ankle, and with ankle straps that you lock in with your laces, your ankle is comfortably supported and in place. The lockdown is fantastic.
Speaking of the lockdown, below the ankle straps is the SPRINTFRAME that gives the shoe form and shape. The heel counter is combined with the technology, and besides looking very sleek, it functions incredibly well. Your ankle will be stable. Period.
This was especially noticeable during drives through the lane and fastbreaks. My feet were firmly in place, whether it be cutting, driving, or lateral slides. The traction was also as impressive as the lockdown; the lava-like emboss on the sole served very well, as did the circular tooling. Unfortunately, I believe the adiZero Rose 1 is more superior in this regard, as PureMotion technology is not present in the adiZero Rose 2. You miss this during more foot-fancy maneuvers, where the PureMotion emulated the natural movement of one’s foot.
So without the PureMotion, how did the adiZero Rose 2 respond?
With substantial amounts of +adiprene in the forefeet and heel (compared to its predecessor), the shoe just felt bouncy. It was very reactive to all powerful movements – sprinting felt easy, jumping was explosive and had the kind of spring that normally I’d only have jumping barefoot. Leaping from a standstill felt a bit spongy, but the rubber insole did well with a run-up.
Its reactivity is definitely where the adiZero Rose 2 shines; definitely top-class.
And it’s definitely a top-class basketball performance pair of kicks, no doubt about it.
All in all? The adiZero Rose 2 is a worthy addition to the line. Is it better than the first installation? The answer to that really depends on you and your personal preference. The adiZero Rose 1 is an excellent shoe, excellent for that low-to-the-ground slashing guard play, and the 2 is more of a hybrid. Small forwards would be just as at home as point guards in these shoes.
PROS
Quality construction
Wonderful ankle lockdown – you won’t need an ankle brace or tape
Excellent lateral and forward movement
Great response during powerful movements like sprinting and jumping
Better cushioning than the adiZero Rose 1
Affordable
CONS
PureMotion does not make a return
Standstill jumping felt spongy
Not for post-play
Not recommended for street courts – the lava emboss doesn’t seem tooled in enough
OVERALL
It’s an impressive sneaker. While it has its faults, it’s what defines it from the adiZero Rose 1 and 1.5 and makes it unique, which I believe is better than a rehash of the debut shoe. But even if you don’t dig that kind of style, take this away from the review, if nothing else.
Fast just got faster.