Shoe Review: Converse DEFCON

SnakeStablermeeting

Despite being making basketball kicks since 1917, Converse is often overlooked in today's crowed basketball shoe market.  That should change with the release of their Holiday 2011 performance basketball collection, which includes the Converse DEFCON that I'm currently wearing while I type these very words (despite my 15-month-old's best efforts to steal them off my feet).

First off, and most importantly, the DEFCON's are extremely comfortable and light feeling.  Wearing hi-tops for my entire basketball life, I like the ankle support these shoes have, as well as their hard shell exterior.  They also contain Converse Balls Technology, which gives you extra spring off of the court (which I need at my advanced age), and are built to aid its wearer on defense (which I REALLY need at my age).  And I really like the look of the shoes, with the iconic Converse logo on the side as well as the choice of 12 different colours (I'm rocking the red and black ones pictured above).  We'll let the experts are Converse give you the rest of the skinny on the shoes: 
 

A consistent staple in Converse basketball performance product, great emphasis has been placed on providing extensive technology in the upper, ensuring superior lockdown and ankle support. The Converse DEFCON and Pro Leather 2K11 shoes feature ConTain Fit Technology in the upper, unique to Converse, which first appeared in the Star Player Evo shoe. Forming a lightweight brace around the foot and providing breathable structural support and cushioning, ConTain Fit contours the foot and transfers all physical force directly to the traction system for increased on-court mobility.

The Converse DEFCON shoe, named after the military term identifying defense readiness, was built for players to quickly transition from offense to defense. The DEFCON seamlessly integrates the upper and midsole with direct-inject EVA foam for lightness, breathability and containment. The DEFCON also comes with an *OrthoLite® sockliner providing long-lasting comfort during extended wear.

“With the Converse DEFCON and Pro Leather 2K11, we wanted to keep the aesthetic pure and focus on the performance aspects,” said Damion Silver, Converse Design Director.  “Each shoe showcases some of the most advanced basketball technologies in the market, combined with the impressive on-court style Converse fans expect.”


Despite all these bells and whistles, the DEFCONs are extremely cheap – while the suggested retail price for them is $90 (U.S.), they are currently on sale at Converse.com for $62.99
 

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