Verdict from 1 expert and 9 user reviews
4 reasons to buy
- One reviewer likes the Nike Air Swoopes 2 a lot. He recommends copping a pair of these retro basketball shoes from the Swoosh.
- Several commenters appreciate the Air Swoopes 2’s retro silhouette. They think these basketball sneakers are dope.
- These retro Nike basketball shoes feature an Air Zoom midsole for lightweight responsiveness. The CP3.XI and Kobe AD 2018 are also equipped with Zoom Air cushioning.
- The Nike Air Swoopes II’s upper boasts a combination of leather and mesh that delivers a 90s vibe.
3 reasons not to buy
- The Air Swoopes 2 is available only in women’s sizes.
- Some commenters do not dig the shoe’s appearance.
- There are hardly any comments about the shoe’s on-court performance.
Bottom line
The Nike Air Swoopes 2 definitely provides that retro feel. According to one reviewer, this is the only women’s sneaker that men should consider rocking. Fans who are familiar with 4-time WNBA Champion Sheryl Swoopes should consider copping a pair of these retro basketball sneakers.
Tip: see the best basketball shoes.
Good to know
When Nike launched the Air Swoopes in 1995, Sheryl Swoopes made history and became the first female player to get a signature line from Nike basketball. She also became the second athlete behind Michael Jordan to have a sneaker named after them.
“It feels surreal to know that I had my own shoe,” Sheryl said in an interview. “I look at where the game is today, and how far we as female athletes, as women, have come — and how much work we still have to do just to be appreciated. I feel like now is such an important time for women and female athletes everywhere.”
Originally released in 1997, the Air Swoopes 2 boasts a leather and mesh construction and an unconventional lacing system.
Cushion. The Nike Air Swoopes 2 utilizes a foam midsole with Nike Zoom Air cushioning for lightweight comfort and responsiveness.
Traction. These Nike basketball shoes have a rubber outsole made of both solid and translucent rubber. The outsole features a circular herringbone traction pattern for superior grip on any surface.
Length and Width. The Nike Air Swoopes II is only available in women’s sizes. Men who are interested in copping a pair can order a size and a half or two full sizes up. Buyers are advised to try the shoes in store to get the perfect fit.
Lockdown. These Nike basketball shoes boast a unique rope lacing system with a toggle that cinches for a snug fit. The bilateral lacing system allows for a secure fit. It also removes pressure off the top of the foot. According to Swoopes 2 designer Marni Gerber, “In general she ran a lot; she was just up and down the court, so she needed this lightweight, flexible footwear.”
The upper of the Air Swoopes II features a combination of leather and mesh that offer breathability and durability. This leather and textile construction also delivers comfortable containment.
Some of the distinct features of the Nike Air Swoopes 2 is its toggle rope lace system and non-removable shroud with a showy vertical Swoosh.
“I spent a lot of time with Sheryl just getting to know her; I think that’s the best part about working with an athlete. It’s almost like the shoe designs itself once you know the person,” Gerber explains.
Other details include smaller Swooshes seen on the cushioned heel collar, an embroidered “Air” displayed on the heel pull tab, and a prominent basketball heel bumper.
These retro Nike basketball shoes are available in the following color options:
- Black/Atmosphere Grey/Black
- White/Black-Game Royal
- White/Black-Red
- White/Orange Pulse/Black/White
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