[Review and Experience] Victor S82 III | The Post-Passion Era Dominated by Pragmatism

Joyce September 7, 2024 4 0

In the context of consumption downgrade, we all place greater emphasis on whether a product can deliver lasting and stable performance. Although sneakers are also consumables, we always want to wear them for longer, especially when it comes to styles we truly love. While visible wear and tear like dirty or faded uppers and worn-out sole patterns can be accepted, the invisible decline in performance is more distressing – I can accept wrinkles on my skin, but not the “wrinkles” in the soul of my sneakers.

As the flagship model of Victor’s speed-oriented sneakers, the S82 series has undergone a transformation from the romantic to the pragmatic, with the key driver being Victor’s signature midsole technology, HYPEREVA. HYPEREVA may not stand out in terms of materials or foaming technology, but it excels in its balanced tuning, achieving lightness, softness, resilience, and durability – akin to a gymnastic all-rounder who may not excel in any one discipline but excels when all are combined.

Those who have worn sneakers like the A970ACE and P8500II will understand the practical prowess of HYPEREVA. The S82III replaces the previous generations’ lightweight and elastic EVA midsole with HYPEREVA, coupled with the continuation of the ENERGYMAX V heel cushion, ENERGYMAX 3.0 forefoot cushion, ENERGYMAX 3.0 insole, and ENERGYMAX 3.0 midsole cloth from previous models, offering a comfortable footfeel that balances responsiveness and cushioning. Furthermore, the addition of a carbon plate, TPU, and dual-density midsole – the trifecta of arch support and torsion resistance – ensures that the S82III is well-equipped in these aspects.

A crucial aspect to highlight is the midsole’s resistance to performance decay. Although I haven’t worn the S82III for a long time, we can draw insights from other HYPEREVA-equipped sneakers. My P9200 55th Anniversary Edition, which I’ve worn for almost a year, still feels fresh and eager to move upon first step-in – the sole feedback is crisp and direct, with a tenacious bounce underfoot that feels like the shoe is propelling you forward, inspiring you to move more on the court. Moreover, with ENERGYMAX cushions in both the forefoot and heel, the S82III surpasses the 55th Anniversary Edition in cushioning, particularly when playing for extended periods with declining leg strength, where the S82III offers easier leverage.

The iconic sole design of the S82 series is carried over to the third generation, with minimal changes from the previous two generations aside from the HYPEREVA logo on the heel and new colorways. You could argue that the designer was being lazy, but it could also be seen as preserving the family DNA, instantly conveying a sense of speed and recognizable as part of the S82 series. There are some subtle tweaks in the details, such as the contrasting lines on the upper midsole edge reminiscent of the second generation, and the solid-color design on the front midsole echoing the first generation, paying homage to both predecessors. The Roman numeral “III” embossed on the heel, the triple square and triple dot patterns on the upper, further emphasize its unique identity.

In terms of design language, the third generation shifts away from the first generation’s obsession with speed, embracing a balance between lightness and protection. The upper utilizes a larger-holed mesh without compromising strength, while the braided tongue resembles a net pouch, and even the laces are thinner. The series’ signature M-shaped TPU wrap-around system, now covering both sides compared to the unilateral configuration of the first two generations, significantly enhances the shoe’s overall containment and support. Good containment facilitates more focused power transfer, crucial for faster footwork. It also instills confidence in lateral stability.

The S82III adopts a full-coverage inner lining similar to the P9200TTY, providing a more comfortable fit between the foot and the upper. However, the upper can be slightly restrictive during forefoot flexion, not as comfortable as the second generation’s jacquard mesh upper.

Pragmatism is also evident in the design of the tongue and heel pull tabs, which may compromise the overall speed aesthetic but are practical in facilitating easier entry and exit. The S82III uses a V2.5 standard last but has a slightly wider forefoot, making it accommodating for those with wider feet.

Lastly, my favorite design element is the flip-card-inspired tongue, reminiscent of the changing pictures you played with as a child, displaying the Victor logo and S82III logo from different angles. It would be interesting to see more playful patterns introduced in future versions.

Running through the center of the tongue is a translucent, veil-like ribbon, creating a seductive half-hidden effect, albeit slightly cumbersome when threading the laces.

Shedding the passion for speed, the S82III presents itself with more practical designs and comprehensive capabilities while retaining the essence of the series. In this post-passion era, the S82III has even more staying power.