[Review Experience] Decathlon BS990 Badminton Shoes Review: A Combination of “Professionalism” and “Ultimate Cost-Effectiveness”

Joyce September 10, 2024 0

Cyberpunk, a dystopian sci-fi trend, has gained immense popularity in recent years, often showcasing the seamless integration of advanced AI, bionic technology, and everyday life. Describing the BS990 badminton shoes in a cyberpunk context is nothing short of apt. This review delves into the details of how this French-designed footwear encapsulates the essence of future, technology, and romance on the badminton court.

01 Appearance

From Blade Runner to Alita: Battle Angel, cyberpunk’s distinctive visual aesthetics have captivated audiences worldwide. High contrast, high saturation, and low lighting, dominated by cool tones (blue, cyan) with splashes of warm hues (pink, neon orange) evoke a mysterious and alluring atmosphere. BS990 perfectly embodies this style, with its predominantly blue shoe upper adorned with glossy KPU strips and matte TPU mesh, reminiscent of steel structures shrouded in foggy nights. The vibrant orange accents on the tongue and outsole add a touch of neon, mirroring the city’s fleeting lights.

02 Design

Shoe Shape – A Blessing for High Arches

BS990 sports a 2.5EV-shaped toe box, providing a snug fit at the toes and a slightly elevated midfoot. The sock-like design at the ankle ensures both the mobility of the forefoot and accommodation for high arches, making it a dream come true for those with similar foot shapes.

Upper – The Ultimate Sandwich Mesh Configuration

BS990 leaves no stone unturned in its upper construction. The outermost layer combines KPU-reinforced TPU mesh, enhancing durability and reducing weight. The middle layer features super-fine PU, typically reserved for premium shoes, providing unparalleled support and wrapping. The innermost layer, a breathable sandwich mesh, seamlessly integrates with the mid-cut sock-like collar, ensuring 360-degree ankle protection and minimizing扭伤risks.

Outsole – Tailored for Badminton Dynamics

Unlike other brands that incorporate shock-absorbing pads solely at the heel’s center, BS990’s DHN system extends this coverage to the heel’s periphery, catering to various angles of force exertion during badminton’s demanding lunges and stops. The SCF supercritical fluid foaming technology used in the midsole offers lightweight, high-rebound cushioning, reducing fatigue and protecting knees and ankles. The youthful-looking multi-colored rubber outsole with ventilation holes and TPU anti-torsion plates rounds off the design.

03 On-Court Experience

Shock Absorption

BS990 excels in shock absorption, thanks to its innovative midsole design. The firm yet responsive material delivers minimal cushioning during casual wear but significantly dampens impact during lunges and jumps. The extended heel cushioning provides additional support and stability during extreme movements.

Rebound and Propulsion

The stiffer forefoot cushioning favors quick starts, akin to speed-oriented shoes. While this enhances initial push-off, it may cause discomfort for heavier players during prolonged use. The soft heel cushioning, while protective, leads to slight lag in return feedback during repositions.

Wrapping and Support

BS990 offers exceptional wrapping, particularly for high-arched feet. The thick ankle cuff and sock-like design provide a secure fit, while the TPU-KPU blend ensures a snug midfoot and toebox wrap. Lateral support is robust, enabling swift stops and turns without slipping.

Grip and Stability

After over half a month of rigorous use, including 8 hours of multi-ball drills and 12 hours of doubles matches, the shoes exhibited impeccable grip, ensuring stability throughout.

04 Conclusion

BS990 is a professional badminton shoe prioritizing stability and shock absorption, making it ideal for players with heavier builds or knee injuries. Its premium materials and meticulous design, coupled with an astonishing price tag of just 599 RMB, render it a remarkable value proposition. Whether you’re a beginner, intermediate, or advanced player seeking stability and cushioning, BS990 is a solid choice.