words // Brandon Richard

There’s a general thought that big men just aren’t marketable enough to sell basketball shoes. Few can identify with the needs of a 7-footer in terms of performance footwear, and the shoes are often thought to be a little too bulky to succeed in a minimalist footwear era. However, adidas has taken an entirely different approach with Orlando Magic center Dwight Howard’s signature line and we’re really starting to see it pay off.

Last year, adidas Basketball turned heads with the introduction of the Superbeast, a lightweight SprintSkin-constructed sneaker that maintains stability for individuals who play a “bigger” game. Dwight plays the 5, but his athleticism and movements are comparable to smaller wing players, and the Superbeast perfectly suited his game.

This season, the Magic Beast will be laced with the adiPower Howard, an adidas basketball shoe with a silhouette clearly inspired by the Superbeast. The adiPower Howard also features a SprintSkin and synthetic build with mesh windows strategically placed for ventilation in key zones. An injected EVA midsole provides long-term, lightweight cushioning. Z-Torsion allows for natural motion, while also providing additional support and stability. Completing the task below is a Cilia traction rubber outsole.

The adiPower Howard is available in several team colorways at Eastbay today.

Available now: adidas adiPower Howard