The Way of Wade brand consistently delivers top-tier basketball footwear, and the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore is no exception. As a dedicated enthusiast of performance basketball shoes, I was eager to get my hands on this latest iteration of the All City line.
While it’s clearly a refinement of the original All City 13, designed with subtle tweaks, the burning question for me was: do these adjustments warrant choosing the Encore over its predecessor, especially considering potential price differences?
My initial assessment, purely from a performance standpoint, suggests that if you can find the standard All City 13 at a significant discount, it might offer comparable value. However, both are undeniably great shoes, largely because they share so many fundamental, high-performing characteristics.
This review will delve into my personal experience with the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore, breaking down its traction, cushioning, materials, fit, and support, and ultimately help you decide if this is the right shoe for your game.
Unrivaled Grip: A Deep Dive into the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore’s Traction
When it comes to basketball shoes, traction is paramount, and the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore absolutely delivers.
Outsole Design
The outsole features a classic herringbone pattern, but executed in a uniquely effective way. It’s segmented into small, “potted” sections, reminiscent of the Nike Kobe 2’s outsole design, with flex grooves dividing these areas. Each section is densely packed with herringbone, ensuring maximum surface contact.
The rubber itself feels incredibly durable, which immediately made me consider its viability for outdoor play. While I primarily tested these indoors, the thought that they could withstand the rigors of asphalt is a huge plus for many players.
On-Court Performance
On indoor courts, the traction was nothing short of excellent. I encountered absolutely zero complaints in this department. The grip was consistent and reliable, allowing for sharp cuts, quick stops, and explosive pushes without any slippage.
- Occasional dust buildup required just a quick wipe.
- Allowed for confident, sharp, and unpredictable movements.
- Provided one of the most reliable traction experiences I’ve had.
This dependable traction is a critical aspect of my game, providing the confidence needed to make quick, unpredictable movements, and the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore certainly instilled that confidence. It truly is a standout feature for this shoe.
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Cushioning: A Firm Ride with Excellent Court Feel in the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore
The cushioning system in the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore is a fascinating blend of advertised technology and real-world feel. The brand proudly claims 100% Boom cushioning, a detail clearly stated on the shoe itself.
Cushion Setup
- Full-length Boom midsole.
- Paired with a supercritical insole that feels surprisingly comfortable.
- While not the most supportive for arch or torsional needs, it delivers pleasant underfoot comfort.
Real-World Feel
However, despite the “Boom” moniker, the ride felt notably firm – a characteristic that genuinely surprised me. Unlike what one might expect from a full-length Boom setup, this isn’t a bouncy, super-responsive cushioning experience. It feels more like a very dense version of ETPU, rather than a “Boost-like” sensation.
For context, Boost foam provides a distinct feedback and springiness when pressure is applied. The Way of Wade All City 13 Encore, by contrast, offered a lot of court feel, which for me, was a double-edged sword.
- Ideal for players who prioritize direct court feel.
- Less suitable for those seeking plush, springy responsiveness.
- Feels closer to Kyrie models in terms of court connection.
While the firm ride wasn’t what I initially anticipated, it certainly didn’t hinder performance; it simply caters to a different preference in cushioning feel.
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Premium Feel and Swift Break-In: Materials of the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore
The materials used in the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore are, in a word, fantastic. This was also a highlight of the previous model, and it carries over beautifully here.
Material Quality
While the specific aesthetic may vary with different colorways, the performance aspect of these materials is consistently high. The shoe incorporates a significant amount of synthetics and fused panels, typical of modern basketball footwear, utilizing plastics and similar components.
Yet, despite this, the textile choice truly stands out. It feels like a very high-quality, tightly woven knit, almost reminiscent of a premium sweater, but without the bulk or heat retention.
- Comparable to Jacquard weave with superior breathability.
- Soft and flexible almost immediately out of the box.
- Reinforced with fused panels and synthetic overlays in high-wear areas.
Ventilation and Comfort
One of the most impressive aspects of these materials is their break-in time. The Way of Wade All City 13 Encore felt almost game-ready straight out of the box, requiring virtually no uncomfortable adjustment period.
An appreciated detail is the inclusion of additional ventilation points. Beyond the inherent breathability of the knit, there are specific vents at the arch and on the tongue.
- The tongue is extra ventilated for airflow.
- Keeps feet cooler during extended play.
The overall material package of the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore is undoubtedly one of its strongest features, blending premium feel with practical performance.
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A Unique Forefoot Strap and True-to-Size Fit in the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore
One notable design element that sets the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore apart from its predecessor is the addition of a forefoot strap.
Strap and Fit
This feature is interesting; while the Velcro attachment extends all the way down to the footbed, I found that the range of tightening it offered was somewhat limited. Unless you have a particularly narrow foot, the strap might not provide a significant amount of additional compression or lockdown.
- More effective for narrow-footed players.
- Not essential for everyone but adds an extra layer of security.
Regarding the fit, the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore runs true to size. I recommend sticking with your usual basketball shoe size. It’s worth noting that the shoe does lean towards being slightly narrow, so players with wider feet might experience a tighter squeeze, especially initially.
Lockdown and Lacing System
The lockdown achieved by the lacing structure is very solid. Underneath the forefoot strap, the lacing system is fairly traditional, utilizing typical eye stays.
What’s clever, though, is that these eye stays are attached to what I’d describe as “cables” – not Nike’s Flywire, but similar nylon cables that extend down into the footbed.
- Nylon cables provide strong forefoot reinforcement.
- Midfoot cables run deep into the footbed for added lockdown.
- The top eyelet returns to a traditional design, finishing the setup.
Overall, the fit and lockdown of the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore inspire confidence, making you feel secure and ready for dynamic movements on the court.
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Unparalleled Support: The Best Feature of the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore
Without a doubt, the support offered by the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore stands out as its best feature.
Support System and Stability
My experience with this shoe strongly associates it with the Air Jordan 13, particularly in terms of its outsole shape and the protective elements. Just like the Air Jordan 13’s iconic “Panther Paw” inspired outsole, the All City 13 Encore incorporates noticeable bumpers on the lateral side.
- These act as strong outriggers to prevent ankle rolls.
- Offer excellent lateral stability during aggressive movements.
What makes the support system truly exceptional is its intelligent design for dynamic players. While the lateral side is engineered for maximum stability, the medial side of the shoe is notably rounded, a characteristic often found in Kyrie models.
This combination offers a unique advantage: immense stability on the outside for hard cuts and quick changes of direction, coupled with enhanced mobility on the inside.
Furthermore, the lateral side of the midsole is almost entirely encased in rubber, effectively caging and stabilizing the Boom cushioning within.
- Keeps the foot secure and stable in all movements.
- Perfect for shifty guards who value both protection and agility.
Final Verdict on the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore
Having put the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore through its paces, I can confidently say it’s a strong contender in the performance basketball shoe market.
From the exceptional, durable traction that performs flawlessly indoors (and likely outdoors), to the sophisticated material package that offers a premium, breathable, and quickly broken-in feel, the shoe excels in many areas. The fit is true to size with solid lockdown, though wider-footed players should be aware of its slightly narrow profile.
However, the defining characteristic, and arguably its greatest strength, is the unparalleled support system. The fusion of lateral stability akin to the Air Jordan 13 with the medial mobility seen in Kyrie models makes it an ideal choice for shifty guards seeking both protection and agility.
The cushioning, while branded as “Boom,” offers a firm ride with excellent court feel, catering more to those who prefer direct court interaction over bouncy responsiveness. If you’re chasing maximum energy return, you might find yourself looking towards other Way of Wade signature models.
Ultimately, if you’re a dynamic player who prioritizes top-tier traction, a secure fit, incredible support for lateral movements, and appreciate high-quality, durable materials, the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore is an excellent investment. While it shares many similarities with its predecessor, the “Encore” tweaks, particularly the forefoot strap (for those who need it), add to an already impressive package. It’s a shoe built for performance, allowing you to focus on your game with confidence.
Jason Cole is a passionate sneaker writer and basketball shoe reviewer with years of experience in the world of athletic footwear. Combining deep product knowledge with a genuine love for the game, Jason delivers in-depth reviews and insights that help players choose the right performance sneakers for their style and needs. His articles break down every detail — from traction and cushioning to support and fit — making them a trusted resource for both casual hoopers and serious athletes.
Over the years, Jason has tested and analyzed hundreds of basketball shoes from top brands like Nike, Adidas, Jordan, Puma, and Under Armour. His hands-on approach and honest feedback make his reviews stand out for their accuracy and authenticity. Whether it’s the latest signature model or a hidden gem on the court, Jason’s expertise helps readers find the perfect pair to elevate their performance.
When he’s not writing or testing sneakers, Jason follows the latest trends in basketball culture, exploring how innovation, style, and performance come together in modern sportswear. His goal is simple — to guide every reader toward the ideal basketball shoe that blends comfort, technology, and court-ready confidence.
