A RECIPE FOR DISASTER 

Nothing against D Book, but The Book 1 is just crazy.

90s style might be back, but these took performance back with them.

Look good. Feel good. Play good? Even with a sprained ankle? 

We weren't surprised when Booker went down with an ankle injury just months into wearing them and had to miss a week of play. In the post-game, he said he "Stepped on a foot. Part of the game." But it doesn't have to be. We've been stepping on feet repeatedly with no issue! 

The Problems 

Ankle injuries come from a lack of balance and connection to the shoe. The Book 1 fails mightily at both. Here's why:

1. Sidewall: This is one of the steepest sidewalls you'll find on the court. While no one boasts outriggers like we do, most basketball shoes have some lateral support. A sheer edge without an outrigger is asking for a roll. You can't balance on a sharp corner.
2. Air Bags: Studies have shown heel air cells increase the likelihood of ankle sprains by 4x. If you missed our deep dive, catch-up here. The Book 1 has a top-loaded Nike Zoom air bag in the heel, basically the worst place you can put it.
3. Foot Slip: Reviews like this from Foot Doctor Zach talk about the lack of containment and movement in the upper - aka foot slip - which a big driver of ankle and other injuries. When your foot disconnects from the shoe, your body can't correct itself. 
   

So why does Nike release a shoe like this for basketball? Lifestyle.

What's your take?

Would you play in The Book 1s? 

Let us know what you look for and what you avoid when it comes to basketball shoes so we can take your thoughts into account on future models. 

More Sneaker Breakdowns? 

Stay tuned to learn about the shoe banned in NBA locker rooms. 
(Hint: it's not APL, and it's not these bad boys 👇)