What Needs Work
It’s quick, it’s stable, but the Ubersonic 5 isn’t particularly comfortable. It’s the type of shoe that’s used like equipment—you play the match and then tear them off your feet. You’ll want something friendlier to wear for the post-match beverage. The cushioning is sparse, even when compared to other lightweight, speed-focused models. Balletic movers who glide across the court may not have issues. However, mere mortals who typically hear their footfalls on a hard court will probably find the response a little harsh.
Additionally, the materials used aren’t plush and take some time to break in. For instance, the area around the last few eyelets is stiff and lacks padding. When cinching the shoe tightly, it can apply undue pressure to that area of the foot until the material softens up. This drawback may require a looser closure to ease the squeeze, which hampers the security of the fit.
Bottom Line
If you don’t mind a firm ride, the Ubersonic 5 offers the security and quick reaction time prized in a speed-oriented gameday shoe.
