Our verdict
Ideal not only for playing hoops but also for casual wear, the Nike LeBron 3 Retro flaunts a Phylon and Zoom cushioning setup and a fashionable leather and suede upper. Retailed at $175, which might be somewhat steep for some, most basketball enthusiasts still consider this a one-time deal and a steal for a limited release.
Pros
- Great-looking upper
- Performs well outdoors
- Durable
- Approved by many
- Sturdy insole
- Roomy toe box
Cons
- Heavy
- Outsole attracts dust
- Limited colorways
Who should buy the Nike LeBron 3 Retro
The Nike LeBron 3 Retro might benefit you if:
- You are after an outdoor basketball shoe that stays free from wear and tear even after months of use.
- A companion for playing hoops ideal for wide-footed players is what you are after.
Profile of the Nike Lebron 3 Retro
The Nike Zoom LeBron 3 had a quick strike release in New York City in September 2018. A pair was retailed at $175 via the SNKRS app only in New York City. The previous release of the Christ The King colorway in 2006 was only for friends, family, and players of the Christ the King High School in Queens. The upper features a combination of synthetic leather, mesh, and patent leather. The midsole is made of Phylon with two Zoom units. The traction boasts a combination of triangular and linear patterns for a beastly grip and reliable court control.
Performance
Cushion. The Nike Zoom LeBron 3 CTK QS boasts large Zoom airbags. They absorb impact and provide explosive energy returns. They are embedded in a Phylon midsole. The setup is enclosed in a Pebax case. Pebax is a lightweight material similar to thermoplastic, but it is more flexible and it is better at resisting impact.
Traction. The rubber outsole Nike Zoom LeBron 3 has triangular traction patterns on the forefoot and heel and linear patterns on the sides. The midfoot has a carbon plate fiber that provides stability.
Fit
Length and Width. The Nike Zoom LeBron 3 CTK QS is true to size. However, there are reports that the toe box has some dead space, foiling the otherwise one-to-one fit of the shoe. On the bright side, wide-footers will not have any issue because of this extra space. However, wearers with narrow to normal-sized feet are advised to put an extra insole or double their socks to achieve a snugger fit.
Lockdown. The Nike Zoom LeBron 3 CTK QS has standard shoelaces that are looped through stylish and uniquely designed gold plastic eyelets. This lacing system effectively keeps the foot in place,
Material
The upper of the Nike LeBron 3 Christ The King is a combination of different materials. The toe box boasts patent leather, synthetic leather, and suede.
Style
The Nike LeBron 3 CTK QS is unquestionably a stylish sneaker. The patent leather and suede at the toe cap already give the shoe an expensive look. Boosting the shoe's aesthetic appeal is the contrast between its dark maroon skin and gold plastic eyelets. These LeBron basketball sneakers are best paired with jogger pants or shorts to show off their incredible design.
Special Colorways of the Nike Lebron 3 Retro
Nike Zoom LeBron 3 Christ The King
The Nike Zoom LeBron 3 Christ the King had a quickstrike released in 2018. These LeBron basketball shoes are deep maroon color from the collar down to the midfoot. The upper sits on a white midsole and maroon and gold outsole. A “CTK” callout is seen at the medial side of the forefoot. This colorway was released in September 2018 and retails at $175.
