Badminton Shoes Asics Court Control FF3 Review

Joyce October 8, 2024 2 0

Asics’ running shoes are indeed formidable among Japanese counterparts, and its badminton shoes have always been, in my opinion, the most formidable brand outside the big three. Based on recommendations from fellow players, the current consensus among enthusiasts for high-end badminton shoes from Asics is the Gel Kayano EVO 3. The fact that the EVO series has reached its third generation speaks for itself – who would bother with a third iteration if it weren’t worth it?

Recently, a major sale on a popular e-commerce platform offered incredible discounts, so I jumped at the opportunity to grab a pair.

The Gel Kayano EVO 3 is priced at 1090, but I managed to get it at around half off during the sale. For those aiming to snag it below 500, you’ll need to dedicate some serious effort into coupon-hunting and patience for the right moment. Some colorways have been spotted for around 4xx after rigorous searching and validation from fellow players, but I wasn’t lucky enough to catch that deal. It’s also intriguing to note the significant price variations across different color options, with some attractive hues commanding prices closer to 600. I’m still unsure if there’s any performance difference tied to these different “skins.”

The EVO 3 is made in Vietnam, and its craftsmanship surpasses that of the 65z3, also from Vietnam, which comes across as more simplistic and plastic-like. The EVO 3 exudes a more refined aesthetic. It’s undeniable that the quality control from a full-spectrum shoe giant, especially one rooted in Japan, is significantly better than that of lesser-known manufacturers.

The EVO 3 adheres to a classic badminton shoe silhouette, featuring a moderate and stable design that’s not overly bulky. The upper utilizes a mesh KPU heat-pressed technology, ensuring exceptional wrap and stability. Asics’ iconic GEL cushioning technology is present and accounted for, complemented by the FLYTEFOAM dual-layer midsole, which balances responsiveness with lightweight properties. There’s no sign of a carbon plate in the midsole, instead relying on a specialized TPU at the arch for support. For those who swear by carbon plates, this might not be the shoe for you. But let it be known: carbon plates aren’t the sole determinant of a shoe’s premium status – just look at the EVO 3 and the 990!

In US size 8.5, the shoe weighs 311g, making it relatively lightweight among stable-focused models. The low center of gravity, slightly narrow last, and lower ankle collar (which might be a consideration for wider feet – consider sizing up) contribute to a solid on-foot feel. Initial impressions highlight a strong wrap around the instep, with the outer side effectively locking the foot in place to minimize slippage. However, the lower ankle collar gives me a slight psychological feeling of less robust lateral support, though it’s purely subjective.

Pros of Wearing:

Excellent protection and lateral support without a carbon plate, suitable even for heavier players.
Superior grip compared to the 65z3 and other similar shoes.
Well-balanced, low-to-the-ground, lightweight, and quick in both initiation and feedback, with strong court feel.
The GEL cushioning in the heel provides a comfortable landing experience, with a feedback that feels more refined than dynamic foams, hopefully with a slower performance degradation.
The overall mesh TPU construction offers good lateral support and breathability, making it suitable even for warmer climates.

Cons of Wearing:

The insole feels uncomfortable, too thin for my liking.
The shoe lacks a standout feature, offering a balanced but somewhat unremarkable performance that could be replicated by others.
Despite its esteemed brand and solid performance, the EVO 3 lacks the social currency aspect that some might seek.

In summary, the EVO 3 delivers a solid, unassuming performance, equipping you with everything you need without any particular aspect shining brighter than the rest. It proves that carbon plates and supercritical materials aren’t prerequisites for a shoe to rival the top dogs in the industry. Compared to the popular 65z3, the EVO 3 may not boast as many color options or a stronger social presence, but it stands its ground in terms of pure performance, making it a solid choice for those seeking a reliable, high-quality Japanese-inspired badminton shoe – akin to a beloved local restaurant introducing a new dish that’s both flavorful and of guaranteed quality, albeit not quite the city’s top pick yet.