Badminton Shoes YONEX ELSZ3 Reviews

Joyce October 8, 2024 1 0

A fusion of the ultra-light breathability and the comfortable wrap-around experience of the 65 series, coupled with the comprehensive performance of the CFZ series, the ELSZ3 boasts an integrated outsole that extends laterally into the shoe body, emphasizing unparalleled stability and rigidity! Who else can claim the same?

Today, I’m excited to introduce to you the most formidable performance shoe of the year from Yonex – the Elsz3!

First, let’s dive into the specs. The Elsz3, in size 42 (270mm length), weighs a mere 351g per shoe. It’s equipped with the Power Cushion+ shock-absorbing technology, a Power Graphite connection plate in the midsole bridge, and a one-piece connected midsole and outsole. The lateral side features rigid TPU reinforcement to prevent lateral rolls, similar to its predecessor, the Elsz.

—Wear Experience

Upon slipping on the Elsz3, the arch support seamlessly extends to the outer edge of the forefoot, delivering a noticeable stiffness initially. I, as a flat-footed individual, found this rigidity slightly jarring at first, but it’s understandable given the design.

When it comes to comfort, Yonex never disappoints. The shoe’s last offers impeccable wrap-around and snug fit, which is expected of a flagship model. Any deviation from this would be unacceptable.

Ventilation-wise, even in scorching heat, the large-area integrated sandwich breathable fabric, along with the ventilation grilles in the midsole bridge, keeps the Elsz3 remarkably cool. The reinforced lateral shell, while enhancing durability and protection, also contributes to the shoe’s breathability and stretchability.

—Performance on the Court

The Elsz3 is no slouch in terms of speed, rivaling the 65 series. Although its cushioning differs from the soft and bouncy foam materials, the Power Cushion+ is more than adequate for lightweight players like me. Combined with the exceptional lateral stability provided by the outsole and lateral shell, the shoe instills a reassuring sense of stability underfoot. In a word, it’s “stable.” Heavy-weight players I’ve consulted also attest to the shoe’s high shock-absorbing capacity, ensuring a stable and responsive rebound regardless of body weight.

Worth mentioning is the shoe’s impressive breathability. The cross-shaped paddle-like tread pattern significantly enhances the outsole’s wear resistance but should be avoided in wet conditions as it compromises grip.

—Drawbacks

If I had to nitpick, the Elsz3’s aesthetics might deter some aesthetes like myself from an instant purchase, despite its outstanding performance. However, once on the court, the experience speaks for itself.

In terms of grip, the cross-shaped paddle outsole is more susceptible to sweat and water stains compared to traditional honeycomb patterns. Through multiple tests, I found it performs better on wooden floors than traditional sports flooring, indicating a slight venue preference.

Lastly, the standard insole doesn’t quite match the premium feel of a flagship shoe. Upgrading to a top-tier insole from a different brand could significantly enhance the experience.

—Conclusion

Incorporating the best of Yonex’s various series, the ELSZ3 stands as a highly commendable successor to the CFZ3 and a must-have for anyone seeking a versatile and high-performing shoe. Unlike the 65 series, its higher shock-absorbing capacity also caters to heavy-weight players.