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But as every player knows... well, the true players anyway, looks mean nothing if you can't score points in them. Style means nothing if you can't play solid defense in them. So it was time to roadtest the Jordan 20s. We hit the indoor courts first; MSAC. Slipping on the 20s as kids and ballers watched in awe. Okay... As we like to keep our reviews - we'll get straight to the point.

First impression: Like a glove. Really soft. flexible. Strap felt quite awkward - but was easy to get use to. Felt like the richest player on the court.

In-game: Really allows you to move faster than most shoes - grip is just right, the bounce is smooth, the spring is pure airness (if you got hops to go with it). Ankle strap isn't ideal for a fast crossover point guard, but can be adjusted to suit your style. Probably more of a SG or SF designed shoe.

Design and Style: Not an issue when it comes to playing - but it's always nice to look like Mike. The Chicago Bull theme never loses it's flavour on the court. The laser images on the velcro strap are really impressive. The shiny toe got me annoyed when players stepped or landed on it - i didn't want nobody creasing or scratchin' the MJ's! But I guess that's how most players would be thinking with more than a third of a G on their feet.

Material and Durability: No player cares what a shoe is made out of or what it's called - as long as they can last you through the Summer, or until next christmas. The materials of the MJ20 are both solid - and soft. Black shoes never look dirty, that's a good thing. These shoes are too nice to imagine being worn-out. Even if they're worn on the street courts, the sole would last more than most. The strap and velcro will get softer, but the overall durabily of the Jordan 20 in our opinion is just like the man - even if you retire, and retire again, they'll keep coming back in good shape.

Value for Money: $350 Aussie dollars. That's a fair few dollars, more than most people would spend on shoes in 5 years. But remember what you're looking at here. 20 years of greatness - and a shoe that will last you for years. So maybe a shoe that lasts twice as long is actually cheaper than a shoe that dies quicker. If you know your basketball and you know your footwear, you know a pair of MJ20's is always going to be value for money - and invaluable to your collection.

MSF Final-thought: Smooth. that's the word that sums up the Jordan 20. It's a smooth ride, a smooth style, and your game is going to feel smooth too. Some say it's overdone with the 2 straps - but we say a shoe can never be overdone, there's always something that can be added to bring the best out of your game. ::

Final MSF Rating: 8.5/10

Words by DC | Go back to MSF Reviews