[Review and Experience] See U on the Courts – Perfly BS990 Pro

Joyce September 10, 2024 1 0

Perfly’s current product line is quite extensive, catering to virtually all needs of badminton enthusiasts. The naming convention for their products is also quite straightforward, with higher-end, more competitive offerings featuring more digits in their model numbers, with 990 being the current pinnacle.

In the realm of badminton shoes, Perfly’s flagship BS990, launched in 2019, has already garnered considerable praise, particularly last year, when it gained significant momentum, even propelling Perfly as a badminton equipment brand to become a notable player among amateur and intermediate badminton enthusiasts, under the umbrella of its parent company Decathlon.

For this trial, I’ve chosen the domestic version in a light blue colorway, which shares the same performance as the cyber-themed version but caters to my personal aesthetic preference. I was eager to understand the level of Perfly’s comprehension and manufacturing prowess when it comes to badminton shoes.

Specifications: Size 42, insole length 265mm, 2.5E last shape, shoe upper featuring KPU and TPU transparent mesh, EVA midsole with carbon plate and DHN cushioning, rubber outsole, sock-like design for the shoe chamber, and a single shoe weight (including insole) of 357g.

Personally, the cyberpunk-heavy grape purple colorway wasn’t quite to my liking, whereas the current blue version exudes a more elegant and subdued charm. The shoe’s upper adopts a cool blue hue with a sandwich structure, and the high-cut ankle collar adds a sense of dimension, reminiscent of basketball shoes. The text “SEE U ON THE COURTS” on the tongue carries a subtle “let’s see about that” vibe, giving the BS990 Pro its unique personality.

The construction of the shoe’s upper is intricate. The outermost layer utilizes KPU as the primary abrasion-resistant material, integrated with TPU transparent mesh and microfiber PU for a one-piece molding, achieving both strength and breathability, effectively reducing weight, enhancing durability, and maintaining a consistent fit over time without deformation.

Supercritical fluid foaming technology contributes to the shoe’s lightweightness and uniform internal foaming, enhancing overall elasticity and durability. This technology is prevalent in high-end shoe midsoles, and Decathlon has leveraged it to maximize its shock-absorbing capabilities. Enter the DHN heel cushioning system, which boosts overall cushioning by enlarging the heel shock absorber and extending the supercritical material from the sole to the lateral heel, particularly beneficial for protecting knees and Achilles tendons during large strides and quick stops. This thoughtful design is indeed impressive.

The outsole’s防滑花纹 (anti-slip pattern) is highly distinctive, featuring a hummingbird motif that reportedly aids in initiation and braking, while also enhancing lateral stability. The pattern targeting the first metatarsal bone area, a crucial power point in footwork, is specifically designed to enhance cushioning. The outsole boasts three ventilation holes, ensuring ample breathability.

However, materials and technology only reflect a brand’s sincerity and capability, not necessarily correlating with the actual on-court experience. After two months of wear, I feel confident in offering a conclusion.

The initial wear experience of the BS990 is genuinely comfortable. The flyknit-like sock fit provides a notable sense of enclosure, without the discomfort of a pressing tongue. The ankle collar and opening offer sufficient flexibility for smooth put-on and take-off. Additionally, the shoe is highly breathable, preventing a stuffy feeling even after prolonged wear, such as during an afternoon of badminton in summer. Notably, the BS990 employs a standard last, requiring me to opt for size 42 for an optimal fit. Wide-footed players might need to size up by 1-2 sizes.

In terms of protection, the BS990 offers the highest level of stability shoe experience I’ve encountered. The TPU reinforcement at the heel not only provides additional support but also effectively restricts lateral twisting, making it suitable even for individuals with high arches. During warm-ups, attempting single and double-leg jumps, the combination of forefoot cushioning and heel impact absorption results in a seamless landing without any abrupt sensations, highlighting its exceptional cushioning performance. However, the original insole might seem slightly underwhelming in terms of rebound.

The BS990 is also remarkably dirt-resistant, durable, and wear-resistant. Its dark color scheme inherently hides dirt well, and the KPU mesh is naturally less prone to staining. I’ve paid close attention to wear patterns on the non-dominant side caused by dragging movements, and after two months, the BS990 shows minimal signs of abrasion. This feature has tempted me to occasionally wear it to the badminton court or even for commuting – but please, don’t try this at home!

One minor drawback, which seems to be unique to my observation, concerns the traction performance. Although the outsole pattern is designed specifically, its grip in wet conditions seems slightly compromised compared to other shoes. However, this is under abnormal usage, and in dry conditions, the BS990’s grip is unquestionable.

After this trial, I’ve come to realize that Perfly is serious about badminton equipment development and is well on its way to growth. Its prowess in racket and shoe development deserves recognition. Decathlon’s involvement in badminton products is undeniably genuine.

I’ve heard that the grape purple version is currently on sale. For those seeking a stable, high-end badminton shoe, I wholeheartedly recommend the BS990.