Verdict from 2 experts and 100 user reviews
6 reasons to buy
- Lots of reviewers specify that the NikeCourt Air Max Wildcard grants excellent lateral support.
- Many wearers claim that cushioning is superb with the Max Air heel technology and foam insole.
- Satisfied playtesters say this Nike option conforms to the shape of the foot like a second skin.
- Quite a lot of wearers share that the one-piece upper offers a secure fit.
- As per several users, the outsole grooves help improve pivots and hard cuts.
- Some players relay getting added protection at the toe and medial side.
2 reasons not to buy
- To some reviewers, the upper feels restrictive and needs an ample break-in time.
- More than a few notice that the upper doesn’t grant much ventilation.
Bottom line
Nike introduced a new generation of an all-court tennis shoe packed with comfort — the Air Max Wildcard. It combined two Swoosh innovations to optimize cushioning: the blend of Max Air and Lunarlon in the midsole.
This one-piece shoe is also Nike’s attempt to keep everything minimal yet supportive while granting high-performance value. Entry-level and recreational players need not have to break the bank as this wild card is tagged with a surprisingly budget-friendly cost.
Tip: see the best tennis shoes.
Expert reviews:
Video reviews
Good to know
NikeCourt Air Max Wildcard is a fusion of the past and the future in a comfortable and supportive package. This trainer, which can be played on any court surface, is suitable for all types of players, from the starters to the experts.
The Max Air bubble in the heel is a window to the past that delivers a level of comfort close to Nike Zoom Air court shoes. The sleek, uni-piece upper and aggressively designed outsole with crash pad together offers the needed drive to get you focused on the game.
The base comes with a unique tread design that stretches around the medial section. This concept aims to delay any signs of abrasion during rapid directional changes.
Airbag component. Max Air unit, a cushioning bubble filled with pressurized air, is a Swoosh tech meant to minimize foot discomforts and injuries. This visible unit is embedded in the heel to impart maximum impact resistance during repeated landings. It cushions shock each time the foot strikes the ground and then springs back to its natural state at midstance.
Foam padding. Taking up the rest of the midsole, following the contour of the foot, is the Lunarlon foam. This lightweight, soft padding is designed to produce responsive cushioning.
Added cushioning. Offering another level of protection are the crash pads that are meant to improve cushioning. These units also intend to help the user achieve a smooth heel-to-toe ride.
Material. The unique single-piece upper is made of fabric paired to an overlay of synthetics. It offers a glove-like fit to keep the foot securely locked in place.
Comfort boosters. The heel collar and tongue are dressed with a layer of soft support and extra comfort. Its foam-padded footbed also intends to boost in-shoe feel.
Stability provider. Air Max Wildcard comes with a traditional lacing system with internal ghillie support straps for extra stability and adjustable fit.
- Nike developed different Air cushioning technologies, initially used for its running shoes for performance improvement. Offering the highest degree of shock protection is Max Air.
- The main difference between Nike Zoom and Air Max shoes is the thickness of air in the midsole.
- Generally, tennis shoes with Max Air come with added heel height, while Nike Zoom shoes have thinner pressurized air and a lower-to-the-court design. The structure of air proponent in Nike Zoom gives the wearer an enhanced awareness of the playing surface.
- Another all-court shoe that features the visible Max Air is the Nike Air Max Vapor Wing.