The verdict from 6 experts and 100+ users
The Dame 7 has “no serious weaknesses,” but experts can’t stop comparing it to others that are better. Although a “very solid shoe” and a “jack of all trades,” the Dame 7 is still “master of none;” and it still doesn’t make it as the players’ favorite.
Pros
- Great court feel
- Very stable and supportive
- Light
- OK for outdoors
- Affordable
Cons
- So-so traction
- Minimal cushioning
- Non-premium materials
- Runs big
- Needs breaking in
Who should buy the Adidas Dame 7
The Adidas Dame 7 is for:
- Signature shoe hunters on a budget
- Shifty players
- Outdoor hoopers
Who should NOT buy the Adidas Dame 7
The Dame 7 is not for you if you are heavier and need lots of cushioning. You can go for more well-padded Nike LeBron 18 or the Adidas DON Issue #2.
Since this shoe runs big, it might bring you problems if you are narrow-footed. Going half a size down can help, but it’s better to check out other options like the Adidas Harden Vol. 2.
Adidas Dame 7 vs Adidas Dame 6
The Dame 7 is the very welcome wakeup call to the nightmare that was the Adidas Dame 6. The 6 did nothing right except the responsive Lightstrike cushion, which is rightfully carried over to the 7.
According to experts, here are aspects that got better:
- “Traction on Dame 7 is way better”
- “Materials are a huge update”
- “More support, better lockdown”
Traction NOT amazing, but gets the job done
Almost all expert reviewers declare that the traction is not a standout. A tester says that it’s still not on the same level as the Kobe 9 or the Air Jordan 28.
The shoe still gets the traction job done even on dusty and outdoor courts. One says that it “got you covered in all directions.” To maintain its grip, however, the sole has to be wiped.
Cushioning leaves much to be desired
Things go sour when they talk about cushioning. One reviewer says that it’s hard while another wishes that it were thicker. Those who actually like the cushioning still have something to say: “...good, but Bounce provides more.” This makes them yearn for the Bounce-equipped D.O.N. Issue #2.
GREAT court feel
The Lightstrike cushioning seems to offer a reliable court feel. Players describe it as “pretty damn good” and “very responsive,” especially around the forefoot. This could be because the shoe is “low to the ground.”
Dame 7 is very secure, very stable
The Adidas Dame 7’s support features seem to be working well, with players saying that they didn’t experience issues in terms of support:
- “great heel stability and ankle support”
- “stiff enough to keep you in laterally”
- “shoe is super wide so lateral stability was good”.
Cheap-feeling upper materials
The materials used on the Dame 7 are “not really the most premium.” Some experts further say the following:
- “The synthetic nubuck feels cheap in hand.”
- “The mesh is pretty basic.”
These materials, however, are comfortable. Some experts specially mention the pillows or padding around the Achilles heel, which “work to perfection.”
Adidas Dame 7 runs big
The 7th Dame runs longer than expected, and going at least half a size down is the general recommendation.
Needs breaking in
Several features of the shoe need some time to unleash their potential. Here’s what experts are saying:
- “Traction was great after they were broken in.”
- “(The materials) were stiff at first.”
- “Once the shoe breaks in...containment won’t be an issue.”
- “...didn't really break in (the cushion) to...be as good as the one in the Dame 6.”
Feels light
The Dame 7 is around 50 grams heavier than its predecessor, but experts still describe it as pretty lightweight. They probably have the heavier LeBrons as their points of comparison.
- Adidas Dame 6 (men’s): 11.8 oz (335 g)
- Adidas Dame 7 (men’s): 13.7 oz (389 g)
- The average weight of mid-top basketball shoes is 14 oz (400 g).
Affordable
Compared to other signature shoes, the Adidas Dame 7 is indeed cheaper even as a brand new sneaker. Experts say it’s a “must-cop” and “a steal” because of this.
Dame 7 is OK for outdoor use
A good number of reviewers tested the Dame 7 on outdoor concrete and asphalt courts. They seem to agree that the shoe’s “durability seems really good for outdoor courts.”
Tip: see the best basketball shoes.
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