The Nike Giannis Immortality offers a solid performance as a budget signature model. While the Phylon cushioning is not exceptional, it gets the job done. Priced at $80, this shoe stands out among other budget models and has earned a place on our list of best budget basketball shoes. With Giannis Antetokounmpo’s recent championship win, this shoe is a great option for both his fans and basketball players seeking a more affordable option.
Traction
The traction pattern of the Nike Giannis shoes Immortality features herringbone throughout, providing consistent performance. The segmented design of the outsole does not negatively affect the overall traction. While not extraordinary, the traction is reliable and offers a solid grip on the court. The deep grooves allow for good floor contact and minimal slippage, without the need for constant wiping.
Cushion
The Giannis Immortality utilizes Phylon cushioning, which may not sound impressive initially. However, the cushioning surprised me with its performance. At first, it feels firm, but with continued wear, it becomes softer and more responsive. Compression creases indicate that the cushioning is doing its job effectively. It is worth noting that this shoe is designed more for nostalgia and affordability rather than high-performance cushioning technologies like Air or Zoom.
Materials
Considering its $80 price tag, the Nike Giannis Immortality features a thin jacquard upper with fuse overlays in high-wear areas. The back section incorporates a micro-molded mesh material with a neoprene-like feel. The tongue consists mainly of open-celled mesh, while the upper section uses a synthetic leather material. The materials are comfortable enough and provide adequate foot containment. However, the thinness of the materials is noticeable and contributes to the affordability of the shoe.
Fit
The Nike Giannis shoes Immortality generally runs true to size, but those with narrow feet may consider going down half a size. Initially, the fit is snug, but it loosens up slightly after a break-in period. It is important to wear socks with a bit more thickness to maintain the proper fit. Trying on the shoes in-store is recommended to ensure the best fit.
Support
Support in the Giannis Immortality is a bit mixed. The heel feels similar to the forefoot of a Kyrie shoe, offering a curved shape for enhanced stride transition. However, this curved shape can occasionally feel unstable during lateral movements. Additionally, the shoe requires more attentiveness on heel strikes to avoid any potential instability. On the other hand, the forefoot features an outrigger that provides solid support and helps prevent ankle rolls. The synthetic lateral midfoot piece assists in containing the foot and keeping it secure on the footbed. Overall, the support is effective but may take some adjustment.
Overall
For those on a budget and looking for a reliable on-court option, the Nike Giannis shoes Immortality is a great choice. While it lacks high-end cushioning technologies, it still delivers a solid performance that rivals even some signature models. This shoe provides excellent value for your money.
The Nike Giannis Immortality, the more affordable counterpart to the Nike Zoom Freak 3, offers a performance-oriented design at an accessible price point. Despite minimal tech features, it possesses qualities that make it suitable for basketball games. As Giannis and the Bucks celebrate their championship, this shoe allows fans to feel connected and enjoy a quality performance on the court.
Note: For additional information, check out Chris’s comprehensive video review and article discussing various aspects of the Giannis Immortality, including traction, cushioning, support, and fit. Join the WearTesters community to share your thoughts on the Giannis Immortality. The shoe is available at Nike for $80.