So after a successful Jordan 31, a low top version has come out. And with these low top releases, there are usually some changes and tweaks made with the shoe’s second release. Let’s see how it is with this one in my Air Jordan 31 Low review.
Before you dive into this review, I highly suggest you check out my initial Jordan 31 review which will give you an idea how the shoe performs. This quick review is more focused on the changes between the versions.
I’ll talk about the shoe’s tech specs, fit, performance, the upper and decide it it’s worth the price. I’ll tell you if it’s worth getting over the regular Mid. Let’s start the Air Jordan 31 Low review!
THE TECH
ZOOM AIR & FLIGHTSPEED
The exact same cushion setup as on the Mid – full-length unlocked ZOOM AIR with FlightSpeed. That makes for a balanced and versatile cushioning that we’ll talk about later.
FLYWEAVE
The shoe’s upper material at the front area. Still the same as on the Mid, a soft knit that’s really good.
FIT
TRUE TO SIZE, A BIT MORE TIGHT
I really appreciated the regular AJ 31 for its wide construction and solid comfort for a wide footer such as myself. With the Low version, it does feel a bit more narrow and tight. Personally, I didn’t like that. It made me feel uncomfortable the first couple of days, after a break-in period, I still didn’t achieve the comfort that the AJ 31 offered me. So wide footers, try going up half a size.
For a regular footer, these will be fine. The break-in period should be easy and fast, the shoe doesn’t have ventilation, slippage or any other problems.
The insides did feel a little less soft. That’s because the regular Jordan 31 had some nice pillows inside the ankle collar, which obviously isn’t present on the low. That’s not a problem but just something that you notice after playing in both shoes.
PERFORMANCE
CUSHION
The exact same cushion setup, the exact same feel. And it’s definitely nice. One of the more versatile setups that give you some bounce (especially in the heel), good impact protection and still leaves you with court feel in the forefoot, stability, and speed.
TRACTION
Very similar to the original shoe but slightly better, I guess. Solid grip, no slippage problems, good stopping power. I definitely didn’t feel that my performance on the court by the shoe’s lack of traction. That wasn’t the case. It is quite sensitive to dust, so wiping will be required.
The rubber compound looks the same and it doesn’t look that strong, so think twice before playing outdoors. I guess the Low is a bit less sensitive to the court condition. But not by much.
SUPPORT
Support was really good on the AJ 31 Mid and this is no different. These don’t have any new features or tweaks in the support/lockdown/containment areas BUT the overall fit is clearly more snug and tight.
That means you get even harder lockdown, better containment and just a more secure fit. I did mention that the overall support of the shoe could be a slight concern for a regular/narrow footer since the shoe had a pretty roomy fit.
But this isn’t the case with the Low anymore, so I guess I can call this an improvement.
UPPER
NO CHANGES – FLYWEAVE & SYNTHETIC LEATHER
The same upper – soft Flyweave in the forefoot area and synthetic leather at the back. Still the same solid setup for just about any player out there. A very nice balance is achieved here since Flyweave gives your forefoot the mobility, comfort, and breathability it needs. While leather gives you heel support, containment, and durability.
A premium setup that feels premium.
FINAL VERDICT
BEST FOR MOST PLAYERS, LIGHT OR HEAVY
So the AJ 31 Low didn’t bring anything new but the Mid was a good shoe to begin with. If you like lows more and you’re not a wide footer, you’ll appreciate these. Plus it’s $25 cheaper than the Mid at retail.
Pick these up if you’re feeling like trying something quality new.
+ SOLID, VERSATILE CUSHION SETUP
+ GREAT SUPPORT, LOCKDOWN & CONTAINMENT
+ MATERIALS ARE PREMIUM AND DURABLE
– TRACTION IS STILL A BIT SENSITIVE TO DUST
– WIDE FOOTERS WON’T LIKE THESE AFTER THE MID
Okay, that’s it for the review! I hope you found it useful!
Check this AJ XX9 Low review out to see how it compares to the new one. The 29 was a KILLER shoe.