Air Zoom Trainer VS. Air Monarch III

[SystemicAnomaly]

I've been a long time fan of the Nike Air Monarch cross-trainers (even tho' I feel that the Monarch II was a better shoe than the current Monarch III). This is the primary shoe that I've been using for tennis for quite a few years now. Have not come across any shoe so far that can match it for comfort. The generous cushioning of its insole seems to be the best thing for my feet and legs. I've suffered from heel spurs on my right foot in the past. My feet are somewhat pronated and I'm also prone to shin splints. Most other tennis & x-trainer shoes that I've tried appear to bring on the shin splints very readily. Much less so with the Air Monarchs. Also have some knee issues (previous meniscus damage. Currently experiencing arthritis).

Not had an opportunity to try Nike's Air Zoom Trainer. I believe that this is the current update of the Air Trainer 1 (which I've not seen either). I am wondering how this model compares to the Air Monarch shoes. I am aware that soles of both models wear out rather quickly when used for tennis. Is one better than the other for durability?

I imagine that the Zoom Trainers might offer a bit more ankle support. How are they for comfort (compared to the Monarchs)? How about performance. Any/all feedback is appreciated.

 

[SystemicAnomaly]

Also curious how the Adidas CYD Reflex shoes compare to these 2 models. Wouldn't mind some comparison of some of the Nike Air Vapor series (esp the ones under $90) as well.

Forgot to mention that I've got something of a wide foot. D width shoes are sometimes too snug (even when I increase the length by 1/2 size). EE (or EEEE) shoes are ok for my feet. I've also had some decent results with K-Swiss Contestor II shoes (in a EE width). However, the Nike Air Monarchs still seem somewhat better for my feet/legs. Any other K-Swiss shoes that might meet my needs (not too pricey tho')?

 

[chinobambino]

Try New Balance which specializes in width and are pretty durable, or by your description the Nike Lunarlite Vapor might fit your bill. Really soft underfoot (which might be too soft for the higher level player) and they are fitting much wider this year - maybe E to EE.

 

[SystemicAnomaly]

^ Thnx for the feedback, CB. Are you referring to NB tennis shoes or their x-trainers? Used one of their x-trainer models for tennis quite a few years back (bought several pairs of them before the model disappeared). Not seen a recent NB x-trainer in my area for quite a while since that was suitable foe tennis and suitable for my own feet/legs.

Took a quick look at the NB (MC) 655 today. anyone have much experience with the 654 or the 655 from NB? Other tennis (or x-trainer) models? Will have to take a look at the Vapor that you suggested. Is there a newer version of this?

 

[Azzurri]

I use the Nike AT and have 8 pairs of them (I also use the Oscillates at times). The Air Trainer is an awesome shoe. Its got a wide forefoot, great cushioning and holds the ankles quite well. Its durability depends on you. I know guys that play 3-5 times a week and their Barricades will last almost the year, while other that play the same amount go through them in 3-4 months. But try the AT, its well worth a try.

 

[SystemicAnomaly]

^ Thnx for the input. Have you tried the Zoom version of the AT? Any different than other (previous?) versions? Any experience with the Air Monarch III (or II) for the sake of comparison?

 

[Azzurri]

^ Thnx for the input. Have you tried the Zoom version of the AT? Any different than other (previous?) versions? Any experience with the Air Monarch III (or II) for the sake of comparison?

do you mean the latest Air Trainer? It was re-released less than 2 years ago. TW still sells the white with a bit red/black one. no experience with the other shoes..sorry.

 

[SystemicAnomaly]

^ Don't know the history/versions of the Nike Air Trainer. I assumed that the Zoom Air Trainer is an updated version (released in 2009?) of the Air Trainer 1.

 

[Azzurri]

^ Don't know the history/versions of the Nike Air Trainer. I assumed that the Zoom Air Trainer is an updated version (released in 2009?) of the Air Trainer 1.

then that is it. I highly recommend them.

 

[Tina]

Check this website out!!
http://www.tennis-warehouse.com/feedback-NMAZTWR.html

 

[High Roller]

IMO these are Nike's best re-issues ever. Because they are full Air Zoom the cushioning is outstanding. My only regret is not stashing away a few more pairs of black/black/silver.

 

[Azzurri]

IMO these are Nike's best re-issues ever. Because they are full Air Zoom the cushioning is outstanding. My only regret is not stashing away a few more pairs of black/black/silver.

I got 3 pairs...wish I had 2 more.

 

[SystemicAnomaly]

Bumpin' the thread. Hoping to hear any comparison of these 2 shoe models.

 

[new_tennis_player]

No comparison, but I'll have a quick review of the Air Monarchs soon. You can get them for $50 or less, if that makes any difference to you.

 

[SystemicAnomaly]

^ Thnx, but don't really need a review of the Air Monarch shoes. Have been using them for more than a decade now (the original model as well as AR II and AR III). Have never tried the Air Zoom Trainer tho'.

 

[new_tennis_player]

Did you ever pick up a pair? It sounds like you would like them.

Heck, it sounds like I would like them also, if they have good ankle support.

Currently, I'm finding my athletic tape to be good for ankles too.

Systemic, your Air Monarch rec is great, but I find them to be a "slow" shoe. I can't quite push off or make sharp cuts with anywhere near the effective of stiffer, less cushy shoes.

Do you consider this to be an issue for yourself?

 

[SystemicAnomaly]

^ Nope. Never found a shop in the area that have the Air Zoom Trainers so that I could give them a try. Not about to order them online unless I I get a chance to check them out first for size, comfort, etc.

Have not found the Monarchs to be "slow". Quite the opposite, in fact. Because they posses such a great combination of cushion and support, I feel that I have more "bounce" in my step and my movement around the court is better as a result.

 

[Sinner]

I can't speak for the Monarch's, but I play in the Zoom Tennis Trainers. The history of these is that in 2004 they released the Air Zoom Trainer as an updated model to the original Air Trainer 1 (as worn my McEnroe). In 2008, Nike retroed them, but renamed them as the Zoom TENNIS Trainer, marketing them as a tennis performance shoe (with XDR outsole and all).

I'm quite happy with them as I prefer a midcut over the lowcuts we have today. The Zoom airunit offers a low-to-the-ground feel, which is great. Picked-up 2 pairs back in '08.