In the latest issue of All Out Cricket magazine – a fast bowling special – we put four of the market’s finest bowling boots through their paces (quite literally).
Quick men put their bodies through an ordeal every time they deliver the ball, and quite honestly their feet can take a bit of a pounding. It’s worth it for that moment when ball cannons into stump, but if you’re going to be hitting the pitch, twisting and following through at pace, you need footwear that’s up to the task. If you plan to make your way in the game as a bowler, we really recommend you invest some time in finding the shoes that best suit you.
To try and help you in your search, we have chosen top-end boots from four marquee brands with a reputation for producing quality, supportive footwear that can stand up to the rigours of a long spell and given them a comprehensive run out. Happily, we can report back that we very much liked what we found. Following hot on the heels of the adidas Twenty2yds Mid IV, and the ASICS Gel Speed Menace, here’s the Nike Air Zoom Yorker II.
NIKE AIR ZOOM YORKER II
RRP: £135
www.nike.com
The Tech Spec
- Weight: 542g
- Seamless KNG 100 kangaroo leather upper for a very soft, durable yet comfortable fit
- Internal mid-foot non-stretch arch straps connected to TPU lace loops for added mid-foot support
- TPU RIM helps keep the foot locked in place and is integrated with toeguard for durability
We Like
- The comfort: our testers emitted a little purr. Serious cushioning
- The lightness: unbelievable
- The option of having the top unlaced or done up
- The Velcro on the foot rather than the ankle
- The use of inspiration from other sports: basketball is clearly an influence
We Dislike
- The colour: there are subtler options than the orange used here. You’d have to be good to get away with them
Star Rating
Look: 3/5
Comfort: 5/5
Flexibility: 5/5
Support: 5/5
Value For Money: 3/5
AOC Rating: 4.5/5
Words: Ed Kemp & Sam Stow
Photography: Joe Provis
Click here to read part four of Gear On Test: These Boots Are Made For Bowling
