Badminton Shoes Victor A970 NitroLite Reviews

dd yy October 8, 2024 2 0

Many badminton enthusiasts, including Xiao Huang myself, would say that VICTOR’s badminton shoes are top-notch and a no-brainer purchase, as long as you know which shoe last fits your foot shape. You can always trust their comprehensive performance!

The A970ACE, with its sleek design and excellent performance, currently holds the fourth place in the China Badminton Forum’s comprehensive performance rating with a score of 9.4. So, I can’t help but ask, has the A970ACE equipped with HYPEREVA truly excelled further in elasticity and durability feedback, while achieving a significant reduction in overall weight, weighing just 310g per shoe (size 41, 265mm)? Do the 0.6% of reviewers who deducted points feel that the HYPEREVA-equipped A970ACE still falls short? Victory didn’t stop there; they boldly adopted supercritical technology!

So, what level is the A970NL, which incorporates supercritical nitrogen-infused foam material? With a score of 9.9, ranking first in the China Badminton Forum, isn’t it impressive and intriguing?

—Appearance Appreciation

The shoe’s upper adopts an integrated microfiber leather surface with a texture resembling suede, exuding a strong sense of quality and elegance both visually and tactilely.

Comparison of Static On-Foot Experience between A970ACE and A970NL

The A970NL features a 2.5 width 3E V-shaped last, providing a similar foot feel to the A970ACE. The forefoot area is compact, offering a snug fit. Wide-footed players are advised to try on before purchase. The only difference lies in the softer and more elastic touch feedback in the forefoot of the A970NL, which incorporates supercritical nitrogen-infused foam.

The heel area maintains the original pillow structure and inner sponge lining, effectively addressing the lack of heel lock-in felt in low-cut, low-profile shoes. This design might be lighter and more practical than sock-like constructions, even drawing inspiration from bootie designs, without significantly increasing the shoe’s weight.

Through actual comparison, it’s worth noting that the A970NL’s microfiber leather upper is slightly softer and more comfortable to bend than the A970ACE. However, the softer A970NL may slightly compromise its shape retention after several matches.

The A970ACE is already a lightweight, speed-oriented all-around shoe, known for its direct touch feedback and quick start. Even with HYPEREVA, the durability of the midsole has improved, but some heavier players may still find it inadequate, perhaps swayed by its appearance rather than practicality. Victory, however, listens to its customers.

If the HYPEREVA-equipped A970ACE excels in start-up speed but falls short for heavier players, Victory’s supercritical nitrogen-infused foam technology surely delivers a satisfying answer.

“Soft and comfortable” cushioning is further enhanced. The heel’s shock absorption efficiency has become a highlight in recent Victory shoes equipped with E-TPU technology. While I’ve experienced the “sandwich midsole’s” powerful rebound multiple times, the combination of E-TPU embedded in the supercritical nitrogen-infused foam framework produces an unexpectedly delightful sensation.

During actual gameplay, the heel rebound deformation of the A970NL is slightly more pronounced than the A970ACE, offering a softer yet non-sinking feel. The post-impact touch feedback concentrates the rebound force, making it more noticeable and comfortable. Both shoes use E-TPU, but the A970NL emphasizes “stable and comfortable wearing experience” more, with the A970ACE being stable, having short and focused cushioning, and quick start-up speed.

Having experienced E-TPU’s rebound performance for some time, I’m no longer surprised, but Victory’s integration of E-TPU into the supercritical nitrogen-infused midsole undoubtedly elevates the A970NL’s overall capabilities to a new level, earning a near-perfect 9.9 score from the strict China Badminton Forum reviewers.

Finally, regarding breathability, the stylish A970NL, despite its microfiber leather upper, features numerous ventilation holes for effective heat dissipation. Its solid-color outsole also provides decent wear resistance within normal usage.

—Conclusion

With its consistent high-end appearance and enhanced soft, comfortable wearing experience, the incorporation of supercritical nitrogen-infused foam technology in the A970NL not only improves the forefoot’s rebound feedback comfort but also maintains quick start-up speed. Players who prefer more responsive starts and faster confrontations can stick with the A970ACE. If you’re lighter and can’t discern much difference between the two, the A970NL might just be the improved version tailored for heavier players.