Last September, Li-Ning unveiled the Blade Pro, a brand-new comprehensive badminton shoe series that garnered favorable reviews upon its release. I frequently spot fellow players wearing the Blade Pro on the court. A year later, Li-Ning has introduced the all-new Blade Max, an upgraded version of the Blade Pro. So, what kind of on-court performance does the Blade Max deliver?
Firstly, the Blade Pro is a shoe I’m particularly fond of, and I’ve even acquired quite a few pairs – a total of 12, to be exact. What draws me to the Blade Pro? Primarily, it’s the incredibly comfortable upper and the redesigned shoe last, which naturally targets the competition from the green brand’s 65Z. However, in terms of materials, the Blade Pro is ahead of its time, boasting Li-Ning’s flagship cushioning technology, the Bèng (Four Thunder), while the 65Z still relies on outdated EVA cushioning. My friends who’ve worn the Blade Pro also attest to its superior cushioning performance over the 65Z. As the Blade Max, an upgraded version of the Blade Pro after a year, has incorporated feedback from players, it boasts numerous improvements.
Let’s start with the outsole. The Blade Max’s outsole pattern is similar to the Blade Pro’s, featuring hexagonal shapes composed of bar-shaped grooves. However, the Blade Max boasts a denser groove pattern, and the outsole no longer has the fine creases present in new Blade Pro shoes. Additionally, the rubber material has been modified, resulting in better grip performance. This upgrade is a direct response to player feedback. In practical tests, under the same court conditions, the Blade Max indeed offers superior grip compared to the Blade Pro. Nevertheless, both Blade models have slightly higher requirements for the court surface. On dusty or aged courts, their grip performance falls short of the Thunder Pro. In terms of outsole durability, the Blade Max also sees improvements over the Blade Pro.
Moving on to the midsole, the Blade Pro and Max share identical configurations. Both feature Bounse+ in the forefoot, Bèng (Four Thunder) technology in the heel, and a full-length Li-Ning Cloud framework. This technology lineup underscores the excellent cushioning capabilities of the Blade Pro/Max within the comprehensive shoe category. Furthermore, a wraparound TPU framework in the heel ensures stability. A large, irregularly shaped TPU plate and a rigid carbon plate in the midfoot provide exceptional torsion resistance and support. During gameplay, I can clearly feel the ample cushioning of the Blade Pro, supporting all necessary shock absorption for my weight. Its torsion resistance is significantly superior to the 65Z, preventing foot arch strain or soreness. The Blade Pro/Max delivers a powerful push-off feedback, akin to stepping on a shock-absorbing medium. It’s neither sluggish nor overly harsh.
Turning to the upper, the Blade Max’s upper material is stiffer than the Blade Pro’s, enhancing support. The Blade Pro’s upper is very flexible, and players with stronger ankles might accidentally push their feet out. However, the Blade Max addresses this issue with improved upper support, securely locking the foot in the shoe’s chamber without feeling rigid. Personally, I adore the Blade Pro’s sock-like wrapping sensation, which is why I’ve accumulated so many pairs. The Blade Max also upgrades the shoe’s collar, incorporating a woven technology fabric for better support. The flashy TPU at the heel is quite novel, displaying “MAX” and the Li-Ning logo from different angles, adding a stylish touch.
Regarding the insole, the Blade Max’s insole is stiffer than the Blade Pro’s. Some players have reported slipping issues with the Blade Pro’s insole, though I haven’t encountered this. Li-Ning has addressed these concerns with corresponding upgrades to the Blade Max’s insole, which remains firmly in place during practical tests.
In terms of court feel, the Blade Max’s excellent foot-shoe integration allows me to perceive the ground clearly during gameplay. It feels like an extension of my feet, providing a comfortable experience.
In conclusion, Li-Ning has made thoughtful upgrades to the Blade Max based on consumer feedback, which is commendable. Listening to customers and improving products accordingly is always inspiring. For me, aside from the Blade Pro and Max’s limited grip adaptability, I can’t fault them in other aspects. Plus, they’re relatively affordable. For players who aren’t excessively heavy and play on decent courts, the Blade Max is a highly recommended shoe.