When I first laced up the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore, I knew I was stepping into a basketball shoe that aimed to refine an already solid formula. The All City line has been consistent in delivering reliable performance models, and the Encore edition follows closely in the footsteps of its predecessor.
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After spending hours on both indoor and outdoor courts, I’ve gathered a full picture of what this shoe does well, where it falls short, and whether it deserves a spot in your rotation.
First Impressions: Way of Wade All City 13 Encore Performance Review
The design of the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore instantly reminded me of the previous model, but with subtle tweaks. At first glance, it may not feel like a major leap forward, especially considering the similar setup in traction and cushioning. However, sometimes refinement is more valuable than reinvention. My initial thought was: this is a dependable hoop shoe that emphasizes stability, traction, and durability.
Traction – A True Highlight
One of the strongest points of the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore is its traction. The outsole features a segmented herringbone pattern that immediately brought back memories of the Nike Kobe 2’s setup. Each section of the outsole has deep grooves, and the rubber feels solid and durable, making the shoe an excellent option for outdoor play as well.
On indoor courts, I had no complaints. The grip was consistent, and I rarely slipped, even during explosive changes of direction. The only minor issue was dust buildup, which required the occasional wipe, but that’s standard for most basketball shoes. Overall, the traction delivers confidence every time I planted my foot or made a cut.
Cushioning – Firm and Court-Focused
The cushioning setup is marketed as full-length Boom foam paired with a supercritical insole. While this sounds plush on paper, the ride is firmer than expected. It reminded me of a Nike Kyrie shoe — lots of court feel, low responsiveness, and minimal bounce-back.
For players who prioritize quick movements, responsiveness, and being close to the floor, this setup is fantastic. I enjoyed how it allowed me to stay in control and make sharp cuts without feeling bogged down. On the downside, if you prefer a softer, bouncier ride like Adidas Boost or Nike Zoom Air, this shoe may feel too stiff.
The insole adds some comfort, but it isn’t the most supportive. Players who need extra arch support or torsional stability might consider swapping it for an aftermarket insole.
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Materials – Durable and Breathable
The upper combines synthetics, fuses, and a tight-knit textile that balances durability with breathability. It breaks in almost immediately, which I appreciated because there was no frustrating adjustment period. The knit feels premium, almost sweater-like, but remains breathable enough for long sessions.
High-wear areas are reinforced with fuse overlays, while the tongue and arch have added ventilation zones. I noticed my feet stayed cooler than in many other shoes with heavy synthetic builds. The addition of a forefoot strap is interesting, though it felt more cosmetic than functional. Unless you have a very narrow foot, the strap doesn’t drastically improve lockdown.
Fit and Lockdown
The Way of Wade All City 13 Encore fits true to size, though it leans slightly narrow. Wide-footers may want to try a half-size up. The lockdown is reliable, thanks to a traditional lacing system combined with nylon cables that pull the upper closer to the foot. The midfoot support structure feels secure, and I never experienced heel slippage or instability.
Support and Stability – The Star of the Show
Support might be the shoe’s best feature. The design combines lateral bumpers reminiscent of the Air Jordan 13 with a rounded medial side similar to Nike Kyrie models. This hybrid approach gave me lateral stability when planting on defense while allowing mobility and fluidity when driving to the basket.
The wide base and rubber-encased midsole provide excellent balance. I felt secure making shifty moves and appreciated the added protection during hard landings. For guards who rely on quick footwork or wings who value stability without bulk, this shoe is a standout.
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Outdoor Performance
Because the rubber outsole feels so durable, I tested these outdoors as well. The traction held up nicely on blacktop, and the cushioning, while firm, provided enough impact protection for short sessions. However, extended outdoor play may eventually feel harsh on the knees due to the firm midsole.
Pros and Cons of Way of Wade All City 13 Encore
Pros:
- Excellent traction on indoor and outdoor courts
- Durable outsole with reliable grip
- Support and stability are top-notch
- Breathable, quick-to-break-in materials
- Secure lockdown and true-to-size fit
Cons:
- Cushioning is very firm with little bounce
- Forefoot strap feels unnecessary
- Narrow fit may not suit wide-foot players
- Less comfort for players seeking plush impact protection
Who Should Buy the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore?
If you’re a guard or a player who thrives on speed, sharp cuts, and reliable traction, this shoe is made for you. It’s also a great option if you often hoop outdoors since the outsole can take a beating. However, if you’re a big man looking for extra cushioning, or if you love springy, responsive midsoles, this may not meet your needs.
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Final Thoughts – Is It Worth It?
After thoroughly testing the Way of Wade All City 13 Encore, I can confidently say it’s a performance beast in the right hands. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel compared to the All City 13, it fine-tunes enough areas to make it a reliable, trustworthy shoe.
The traction and support shine the brightest, making me feel locked in and stable during intense games. The cushioning won’t be for everyone, but for players who want court feel and responsiveness over plush comfort, it’s a perfect match.
If you can find the regular All City 13 at a discount, it might be hard to justify the extra cost of the Encore. But if you value slight refinements, improved materials, and consistent performance, this shoe earns its place as a dependable option in today’s basketball market.
As a dedicated footwear reviewer, I have spent years analyzing and testing athletic shoes across every category, from high-performance running sneakers to lifestyle-inspired basketball silhouettes. My work goes beyond simple first impressions; each review is built on a foundation of hands-on experience, thorough research, and attention to the details that matter most to athletes and casual wearers alike. I aim to bridge the gap between brands’ marketing claims and real-world performance, giving readers an honest, balanced perspective.
My writing style combines technical evaluation with an accessible tone, so both professionals and everyday enthusiasts can understand the strengths and weaknesses of each shoe. Whether discussing midsole cushioning technology, outsole traction, or upper material breathability, I break down complex features into practical insights. Readers trust my reviews because they know I highlight both the benefits and potential drawbacks, helping them make more confident purchasing decisions.
Over time, my work has evolved into a comprehensive resource for anyone seeking guidance on athletic footwear. I regularly compare new releases with previous models to highlight improvements or missed opportunities, while also exploring how different shoes fit specific activities—such as marathon training, weightlifting, or casual streetwear. By staying updated with industry trends and listening to community feedback, I ensure that my reviews remain relevant, informative, and genuinely useful.
Ultimately, my mission is to provide clarity in a crowded market. With countless options available, choosing the right pair of shoes can feel overwhelming. Through in-depth, unbiased, and engaging reviews, I strive to make that decision easier, equipping readers with the knowledge they need to find footwear that truly matches their performance goals and personal style.
