qbwaggle

March 9th, 2009 at 10:42 AM ^

because my girlfriend (who couldn't care less about Michigan basketball and never watches) walked by the TV on Saturday while I was watching the game, glanced at the screen and said "whoa, new shoes huh?" Of course she also bought me tickets to the NW game earlier in the season for my birthday, so she can stick around. EDIT: Oh yeah, I liked the shoes too.

bigmc6000

March 9th, 2009 at 11:05 AM ^

I guess I'm the only one but those shoes just look stupid to me. I can see where they would help a bit in terms of cushion and bounce but man, I'm not even sure I'd wear those if someone gave me a pair for free... Put me in the camp of not being a fan of the adidas gear, I miss you Nike!!

His Dudeness

March 9th, 2009 at 11:08 AM ^

Fuglesworth for certain, but dark shoes and light laces are the style these days. I also don't care for the "shox" looking sole. That can't be good for avoiding a turned ankle.

Goblue89

March 9th, 2009 at 11:10 AM ^

I thought they looked awesome. I hate all the traditionalist out there that hate on schools for changing it up a bit. Let's remember it was the the Fab Five who shook up the basketball world with the baggy shorts and black shoes/socks. This team is starting to play with a little swagger and the shoes definitely add to that. Good look!

bigmc6000

March 9th, 2009 at 11:35 AM ^

It's about if you think the shoes look stupid or not. The Fab 5 was cool with their stuff - it was new and people liked it but just because something is new that doesn't always mean is good (New Coke anyone?). I just don't like the exposed heel, excessive shininess and how plastic they look. Also, that's the same shoe that Indiana has?!?! I'll pass just because of that...

ameed

March 9th, 2009 at 11:43 AM ^

Nike and Adidas are the same, when it comes to originality. They create templates and use them for all of their schools. If that is a criticism of Adidas, it sure as hell was true under Nike as well. I like having unique things for UM, but I think the Indiana version is pretty sweet looking as well.

demetrius_dew

March 9th, 2009 at 11:47 AM ^

It is all about being different and starting something new that they can claim is their own style. The Fab Five had it and now this years squad is trying to creating their own legacy that we can look back at. The shoes were the same style they usually wear but instead of leather they were Patent Leather (looks real shinny) with Maize laces in which the announcer pointed out a couple of times.

BlueSwave34

March 9th, 2009 at 11:52 AM ^

I loved the shoes and was the first thing I noticed when they tipped off. I was never a fan of the white shoes white socks look. Go hard and go black on black baby!! Go Blue Beat Iowa!

akearney50

March 9th, 2009 at 12:59 PM ^

I know a little bit about shoes, so I hope to clear up a little: - Patent leather is more expensive and has tendency to crack easier than cobec (I believe that's what it is), especially when using it on the entire shoe. Cobec is basically a cheaper alternative and holds up better. - The "shox" look that adidas has is their a3 technology. It does have a downside. It keeps the foot higher off the ground and this can lead to a higher chance of ankles rolling. I recently heard an adidas rep talk about the strap on these shoes (and others) as a way to help prevent ankle injuries. Medial straps are becoming more and more popular because of this. - Addressing Indiana having the same shoe. adidas has used the same template for colleges for years: http://www.finishline.com/store/catalog/product.jsp?productId=prod63760…

Tater

March 9th, 2009 at 1:54 PM ^

But the game sure was great. I am surprised that they wore new shoes in a game, though. I would hope they had time to practice in them for a few days first. Different shoes can have subtle effects upon shooting. A show with more or less "bounce" can definitely affect a jumper. I'm just glad it worked out like it did.