Our verdict
Frankly speaking, the Adidas DON Issue #3 is a shoe that is not as versatile as we would have wanted. It's built for one player, and that's Donovan Mitchell. People have to be similar to him in terms of weight and foot shape so that they get to enjoy the full potential of this pair. This isn't necessarily a bad thing; but this is one thing that we should bear in mind.
Pros
- Court feel
- Comfortable upper materials
- True to size
- Nice heel-to-toe transition
- Reduced weight
- Nice appearance
Cons
- Inconsistent traction
- Subpar cushioning
- Support issues
Who should buy the Adidas DON Issue #3
This Adidas basketball shoe will be great for the following:
- guards who value court feel and responsiveness over anything else
- buyers who want basketball shoes that also double as lifestyle sneakers
Who should NOT buy this Adidas shoe
The Adidas D.O.N. Issue #3 is definitely not for big men who want a lot of underfoot cushioning. They may want to check the Adidas Pro Model 2G or the Adidas Harden Vol. 6.
The Don Issue 3 has a for-guards cushioning setup
The DON Issue 3 replaces Bounce with Lightstrike, and it doesn't cut it; the current setup lacks impact protection according to basketball players.
This low-to-the-ground Lighstrike, however, ensures a good deal of court feel. This gives the wearer more control as he sprints and drives toward the basket.
All-day comfort? Yes, you'll get it!
The third shoe from Donovan Mitchell's signature line upper is not only made of soft textile, it is also generously padded so that players feel comfortable even when they wear it for hours on end. This model also doesn't need any break-in period.
At 12.25 oz (347 g), the Adidas D.O.N. Issue #3 is a little lighter than average, and it feels like it, too.
An inconsistent pattern that grips inconsistently
The sole features a modified waffle pattern. Testers say that sometimes it works, sometimes it sucks; this inconsistency makes the traction such a big risk for anyone.
The shoe fits as expected but with forefoot support deficiencies
Those who prefer roomier fits can remain true to their Adidas sizes; these shoes aren't as snug as the typical Adidas basketball shoes.
However, this shoe doesn't contain the foot well according to wearers. There is a constant need to be mindful of possible heel slippage and too much internal instability in the forefoot.
The Adidas DON Issue #3 delivers the looks
The Adidas DON Issue #3 definitely is OK to be used as a lifestyle sneaker because of how good it looks. Athletes are happy about the compliments that they get when they wear this.
