TENNIS.com shoes Reviews

MSRP: $140 (men); $125 (women)
Weight: 13.9 oz. (men’s 9); 10.3 oz. (women’s 7)
Sizes: 6.5-15 (men); 5-11 (women)
Ideal foot types: Neutral, Pronated (men only), Supinated
Best surface: Clay, Hard (men only)
Outsole warranty: 6 months

Perhaps it’s not intentional, but it seems rather telling that when Adidas unveiled its latest Barricade it was given the year of its release as its moniker rather than its place in the shoe’s lineage. While it shares similarities with past models, this update has been noticeably revamped. Lighter, softer, and significantly more comfortable, the Barricade 2015 is a much sweeter apple that falls far from the recent family tree.

It starts with a cushier upper that doesn’t require a fortnight to break in. That extra give makes the slightly snug fit feel supportive, rather than restrictive. The chassis has also been redesigned so that, while still stable in lateral movements, it results in a much more forgiving ride. I wouldn’t necessarily put it the quick category, but the lessened weight seems to have been distributed in all the right places, making for decidedly improved responsiveness.

In years past when I have tested Barricades, I usually try them out for a few weeks, make my assessments, and then put the pair aside. I’m not a superior enough mover to overcome the added weight, and I’m not destructive enough to need all the extra armor. The best thing I can say about the Barricade 2015 is even after numerous matches, and with several other options at my disposal, I still want to play with them.