Our verdict
In spite of it being a LeBron shoe, Soldier 14 is met with a rather cold reception. While players recognize the shoe's strengths, they also have a lot to complain about. At this shoe's price, many thought that there are better shoes available.
Pros
- Nice heel-to-toe transition
- Bouncy steps
- Stiff materials
- Secure and well-supported
- Stability
- True to size
- Lightweight
Cons
- Inconsistent grip
- Requires break-in period
- Hard to put-on
- Not great for outdoors
Who should buy the Nike LeBron Soldier 14
Designed by no less than Jason Petrie, the Nike LeBron 14 is a true warrior on the court. This well-crafted shoe continues the Soldier line's explosive legacy.
This basketball Nike LeBron Soldier 14 shoe could be a great match for you if:
- You are looking for a pair that is well implanted with a Zoom Air unit in the forefoot for a really comfortable and bouncy feel even while walking.
- You want a shoe that has materials that are stiff enough to make you feel secure and well-supported.
Who should NOT buy the shoe
For those concerned about the problem of putting the shoe on, check out the following Nike shoes with a traditional tongue design: the PG 6 or the Zoom Freak 3.
Maximum responsiveness
The Zoom Air unit in the midsole is placed close to the foot for a more explosive response. As a player points out, they "propel you forward with every step." Another athlete points out that the shoe has a "great blend of responsive cushioning and impact protection."
LeBron Soldier 14 is lighter than average
Very untypical for a Lebron shoe but the Soldier 14 actually weighs less than basketball shoes on average. At 348 g per shoe, it is 29 g lighter. For reference, the weight of Lebron shoes hovers around 402 g.
Lockdown support
An innovative lace-and-toggle closure system and Nike's FastFit construction work together that make sure that the fit is secure.
Putting it on might be a challenge
On the downside, because of this unconventional lacing, some reviewers complained about having difficulties when getting the foot into the shoe:
- "almost impossible to get these on"
- "I had to wrestle to get my feet in"
- "the entry point is so narrow"
- "no getting in without hurting the shoe"
This was especially a problem for people with ankle braces due to the lack of a traditional tongue.
Reliable grip
Depending on the colorway, the outsole can be made of solid, translucent, or even glow-in-the-dark rubber. They look different but they are the same in delivering dependable traction.
LeBron Soldier 14: Its unique appeal
Aside from being a beast on the court, the Nike LeBron Soldier 14 is also a nice-looking sneaker that commands attention and elicits admiration.
What sets the LeBron 14 stand out from other Nike basketball shoes is its design that combines retro and futuristic elements, resulting in a look that perfectly complements the present sensitivities.
