Verdict from 7 experts and +100 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Nearly all reviewers claim that the Nike LeBron Soldier 13 fits true to size. According to them, these basketball shoes offer a snug one-to-one fit.
- Most users are surprised that the Soldier 13 is quite easy to put on and off.
- According to most testers, the latest LeBron Soldier offers exceptional lockdown and support.
- Almost all testers are saying that the LeBron Soldier 13’s cushioning is better than the LeBron Soldier 12. They claim that it is more plush and responsive than the previous model.
- These Nike basketball shoes have one of the best tractions, nearly all testers exclaim. According to them, the outsole is very grippy and has consistent bite no matter the court condition.
- Many reviewers love the level of stability and containment these LeBron shoes provide on the hardwood.
2 reasons not to buy
- Several testers are griping that the Nike LeBron Soldier 13 runs very snug and narrow.
- These high-top basketball shoes get pretty hot inside, some players complain.
Bottom line
The Nike LeBron Soldier 13 is a major upgrade when compared to its predecessor the LeBron Soldier 12. The cushioning, traction, support, lockdown, containment, and durability are just on another level.
However, more affordable signature models like the Nike PG3 and Jordan Why Not Zer0.2 provide a better playing experience overall.
All in all, the LeBron Soldier 13 is a unique and fun basketball shoe to play in. If you have $140 to spare, then don’t hesitate to cop pair.
Tip: see the best basketball shoes.
Expert reviews:
- 90/100 by WearTesters
- 85/100 by BasketballDiagnostics
- 84/100 by JORDANDEBUT
- 84/100 by THESOLELINE
Video reviews
Good to know
The Nike LeBron Soldier 13 is inspired by LeBron James’s commitment and dedication to fine-tune his craft. Made for battle, these Nike basketball shoes boast a LeBron-tested cushioning setup that offers optimal responsiveness. A laceless closure with dynamic straps provides unparalleled containment and support.
Cushion. The Nike LeBron Soldier 13 is equipped with a foam midsole with bottom-loaded heel and forefoot Zoom Air units. This cushioning setup is designed to provide dynamic responsiveness as you force your way down the court. The Air units compress and spring back quickly as you run and jump to the hoop.
Traction. These LeBron James basketball shoes feature a rubber outsole with a herringbone traction pattern. The intricate tread pattern is designed to provide exceptional multi-surface traction.
Length and Width. The Nike LeBron Soldier 13 reportedly runs true to size but fits a little snug. Wide-footers are advised to go up half a size for a better fit.
Lockdown. These LeBron James basketball sneakers boast a laceless closure with dual dynamic straps that criss-cross around the ankle and midfoot. Each strap also features an adjustable slip lock that provides a fine-tuned fit.
These Nike basketball shoes feature a strong and flexible ripstop upper that stretches in specific areas and locks you in where you need it.
The LeBron Soldier 13 also comes with a flexible inner sleeve that allows the collar to expand for easy entry.
The Nike LeBron Soldier 13 features a high-top cut with velcro cross-straps—design elements that have persisted throughout the Soldier line.
‘LS13’ is printed on the insole while ‘LJ23’ is found on the outsole.
LeBron James’s 13th Soldier model debuts in Thunder Grey/Bright Crimson/Electric Green. The follow-up colorway arrives in Black/White/University Red. Expect to see more colorways throughout the year.
Nike LeBron Soldier 13 SFG ‘Thunder Grey’
The Nike LeBron Soldier 13 SFG is inspired by James’s dedication to improving his already devastating skills on the court. These high-top basketball shoes feature a multicolored upper with a two-tone midsole.
How LeBron Soldier 13 compares
