Our verdict
Are you a basketball fan? Nostalgic sap? Style demon? Or someone who just wants a really great shoe with some original colorways and great comfort? Whatever road you are searching for, Tai Chi may be exactly what your shoe collection is missing. It is a strong, dependable shoe, made with thought and function in mind.
Pros
- Great design
- Breathable upper
- Great rubber outsole
- Responsive
- Bouncy
- Feels light
- Superb comfort
Cons
- Lacks support
- Top 1% in
Who should buy the Same brand only
- Get the Same brand only if you are looking for an affordable basketball shoe that deliver solid performance on both outdoor and indoor basketball games.
- A great choice for anyone who needs a versatile and comfortable basketball shoe for tennis and other athletic activities.
The AND 1 Tai Chi is a durable basketball shoe
Vince Carter brought AND 1 out of the streets and into the NBA with his Y2K slam dunk title. Many hoopers claimed that two decades later, the shoe is still holding strong. A mix of strong style and thoughtful craftsmanship keeps Tai Chi relevant.
This legendary shoe has solid construction behind it. It is a shoe made for basketball and not merely for styling.
Tai Chi keeps the foot cool
Basketball players appreciate the perforated leather upper which allows the foot to breathe, keeping it cool during the court grind.
Quick bursts and propelling a player laterally are essential in sports like basketball or tennis, basketeers claim that this shoe has what they need - strong support with stability as well as traction for control.
Secures the player’s foot for a quick turn
A thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) shank provides medial support, and many players mentioned that the herringbone rubber outsole keeps your feet in your shoes.
These will stay in place even after that quick turn as you break a defender’s knees and fly to the rim.
Top 1% in
TPU provides high elasticity and is resistant to abrasion. Therefore, the outsole is non-marking. Many are satisfied with being able to use these kicks on both indoor and outdoor courts.
Inside the shoe, we are greeted with a plush lining over a springy EVA compression-moulded midsole that protects the majority of players' back, knees, and feet from hard landings.
Versatile enough for basketball and tennis
Days of playing competitive basketball have long passed. Still, athletes do enjoy a good pick-up game now and then using this sneaker which is suitable also for playing both basketball and tennis.
A little known fact is that basketball shoes and tennis shoes are nearly identical in function, likewise in construction. The two sports share functional movements and muscle kinematics.
Responsive and bouncy
If you like responsive footwear, you’ll find Tai Chi much to your liking. On each step or jump, some mentioned that the shoe returns a solid bounce.
Despite its size and being a basketball shoe, the shoe is lightweight. Hoopers attest that the shoe does a fantastic job of cushioning the impact.
The Same brand only is a durable basketball shoe
First, let us be clear about something. Each athletic shoe is intended for a specific sport/activity. A basketball shoe was never made for a hike or a 10K run.
Many athletic shoes wear away when used frequently in urban environments. However, the majority of key players are appreciative of this shoe for holding up well against the grit and grind of the urban jungle.
