If you’re not quite ready to pull the trigger on the new WAY OF WADE 8, then maybe you might want to check out their new team basketball shoe — the WADE ALL CITY 8.
We spent a few weeks test driving the new Wade AC8. While we had to be a little more creative than usual putting it through our normal test because of COVID-19 restrictions, we’re quite happy with the results.
Read on the find out what we think of them.
FIT: 5/5
The Wade All City 8 has done away with the intricate speed wrapping system found in their previous models. Instead of long dual belt-like straps, a short ‘band-aid’ designed short pull-over strap is positioned on the top midfoot area. Garterized on one end and locked in by simple velcro system, this ensures the wearer a custom lockdown fit. A heel pull tab liner combo guarantees a sock-like ride. This also prevents the heel counter from digging-in on the back of your foot.
CUSHIONING: 3/5
Providing adequate responsiveness for push-offs and heel landings, full-length Cloud Foam tech is once again used in this model. A solid neoprene based insole also adds comfort to each step. The detailed traction design on the insoles aren’t just for mere cosmetics, they keep the insoles in place, providing better containment and foot slipages. Again, may or may not be the best set-up for every player but definitely not the worse. The most important thing to note here is that it does it job when and where you need it.
TRACTION: 5/5
If it ain’t broke, why fix it right? The soles are again made up of a solid Tuff Durable rubber compound (some models are translucent and may have different results) found in the Wade AC7. Deep alternating patterns of herringbone and Wade Logos compromises the main traction of the Wade AC8. Curved outriggers in the medial side of the foot and heel makes for amazing hesitations and push-offs with your feet. We immediately noticed the true grippy nature of the soles, that makes it ideal for hardwood and blacktop surfaces.
Our main gripe with the Wade All City series was the lack of a torsional shank or rigid plate on the in-step arch. Our prayers have been finally answered!!! A plastic plate has now been placed on the foot arch. The torsional support and energy return can now be felt with each stride. This small addition has tremendously elevated the performance value of this ball kicks.
LOOKS: 4/5
While its billed as the step-down budget model of the Way of Wade 8, there is a ton of good things to say about its little bro. We’re happy to declare that this shoe is bar none one of the best designed budget sneaker out there at the moment. In fact, it might even go head to head with some of the big named brands out there in terms of design/performance. The curvy and circular patterns makes full use of the flexible hyperfuse and breathable mesh that adorns the uppers. Panel hits of durabucks can be found around the shoe giving it an organic and even a lifestyle premium look. The panels are placed around the uppers of the shoe to provide sufficient support and containment to compliment the lacing system. Also, the durabuck panels are strategically placed so it doesn’t cause cutting discomfort when the shoe flexes.
OVERALL: 4.25/5
If you’re in the market for a good all-rounder performance/lifestyle sneaker, then look no further than the Wade All City 8. Serious and casual ballers will definitely enjoy the lock-down containment of the shoe while turning heads off and on the courts. Coming in at different eye-catching colorways, they are reasonably priced at $179 AUD.
We got ours at Sunlight Station and once again, we were very pleased with the packaging, delivery and extra gift they provided!
