Nike Courtballistec 4.3 vs Nike Zoom Vapor 9 Tour

[trebbor]

I've been a big and longtime fan of the Nike Courtballistecs, I have the 1.3, 2.3 and 3.3 versions.

I never have any problems regarding durability. So I was wondering if I should switch to Nike Zoom Vapor?

Both have their pro's and con's obviously.

Maybe you guys can help me out decide which one to pick!

 

[trebbor]

Which one of the two is the better according to you guys and why?

 

[Yonie]

Those are two totally different shoes, you cant really compare them.
The Courtballistecs focuse on durability whereas the Vapor focuse on speed and lightness.

 

[trebbor]

But are there other advantages the CB4.3 has over the V9 except for durability?

Because like I said, the durability is no problem for (for almost any kind of shoe), that's why I'm wondering if I should switch to the Vapors. Or does the CB holds an edge over the Vapor in other ways?

 

[sports4eva115]

In my opinion (I have courtballistec series 2.3s and 3.3s and just the vapor 8s),it really come down to preference. I wear my shoes out fast and slide all over hard courts, so vapors just don't cut it for me. But the vapors are also more low to the ground, are way lighter, and more "plush" than the courtballistecs. On the other hand, the courtballistecs have a higher off the ground feel and much more stable due to its constriction and weight.
So all in all, the courtballistecs would seem like a good choice for players who really like to run/shuffle/slide on the court, as the stability and durability are crucial.
Whereas if you don't move much and want more comfort and lightweight feel then vapors are the shoes you'll want.
Hope this helps!

 

[TMCW140]

It's what you personally prefer. I've always used vapors, and got a pair of cage II's, which are widely regarded to be a very good shoe. I however, didn't like them, because they felt too high off the ground and a bit cumbersome - that's not to say they are a bad shoe, it's just that I didn't get on with them.
By all means give the vapors a go though, just don't be surprised if there's a transition stage in there, and stay open minded!

 

[Nima Naderi]

Tried on both yesterday. Vapors are low to the ground and nip the ankles a bit but light; 4.3's are much more comfortable but heavier. I was going to grab the Vapors for a change, but ended up with the 4.3's.

 

[trebbor]

I'm gonna try out the vapor 9 for a change, I dislike the design of the CB 4.3. If it doesn't work out, I'll get the 4.3 later then : P

 

[T21D]

I had to get both. 2 for the price of one.

 

[sports4eva115]

Tried on both yesterday. Vapors are low to the ground and nip the ankles a bit but light; 4.3's are much more comfortable but heavier. I was going to grab the Vapors for a change, but ended up with the 4.3's.

great choice

I had to get both. 2 for the price of one.

gosh both look really nice... wish I could buy both too but I have to rely on 6month warranties haha
thanks for the pics!

 

[trebbor]

I checked out my CB3.3's again. I've played 11 tournaments with it and a dozen of tennis practices. No signs of wear down. Only at the sole at the heel section a little bit. Always landing on the back of my foot.

So I dunno if that says anything about the CB3.3 being that durable or that I'm a person where shoes doesn't get wore down.

That's why I wanna try out the Vapor 9 now, also it looks ways better than the CB4.3 imo.

I'm a very lazy person, moving pretty slow on court and rather not run at all, lol. Sliding is a no-no on our hardcourts. So I don't do that, except on grass and clay. But I do like to jump a lot when I hit the ball, during serve and power shots. It's a bit weird, I consider myself a power player, as in making winners asap, but I don't move like a power player (at all lol). Not much of a runner.

 

[downdaline]

Would you believe me if I say that I currently have a pair of CB 3.3s and Vapor 8s? And that I wear both of them to play?

I wear the Vapors for hotter days. And the CBs for the cooler ones.

Putting durability aside, I find that the Vapors definitely feel lighter and low-to-the-ground. But they sacrifice lateral stability, and comfort (the minimalistic body isnt very cushiony). On the other side, the CBs are exceptionally stable and comfortable, but I can feel the extra weight (no problem if you're fit), and on some REALLY sunny days, they almost stick to the court.

Just my opinion. Both are great shoes nevertheless!

 

[trebbor]

I thought the Vapor 9 are designed for comfortable? So you would feel less pain in a CB than a V?

Anyway, I'll get my pair of V9 tomorrow probably, so I can't wait to try them out!

 

[okaythen]

I am in asia and the store here doesn't honor the 6 months warranty for 4.3. So I emailed Nike and they say inside the shoe above the barcode there are manufacture date, if the shoe got material or workmanship defect you can return the shoe for a nike.com voucher credit. So I guess it's 2 years then?

So has anyone claim the warranty yet? how badly does the outer sole need to be to get the warranty? worn to the upper layer?

 

[kimguroo]

I am in asia and the store here doesn't honor the 6 months warranty for 4.3. So I emailed Nike and they say inside the shoe above the barcode there are manufacture date, if the shoe got material or workmanship defect you can return the shoe for a nike.com voucher credit. So I guess it's 2 years then?

So has anyone claim the warranty yet? how badly does the outer sole need to be to get the warranty? worn to the upper layer?

I don't think they will honor your defective warranty because you worn out the shoes. Worn out shoes is not defective.
I think shoe warranty is only offered few countries such as US.
Here is link for shoe warranty pics.
http://tt.tennis-warehouse.com/showthread.php?t=340506

 

[Rjtennis]

But are there other advantages the CB4.3 has over the V9 except for durability?

Because like I said, the durability is no problem for (for almost any kind of shoe), that's why I'm wondering if I should switch to the Vapors. Or does the CB holds an edge over the Vapor in other ways?

Vapors are a better shoe for sure if durability is not a concern. I've had many pairs of both and really like the 9's. The only advantage of the CB's would be a bit more support.

 

[PhotoBlue]

Vapors are a better shoe for sure if durability is not a concern. I've had many pairs of both and really like the 9's. The only advantage of the CB's would be a bit more support.

Agreed. I can't speak for 4.3 but I had lots of 3.3 and vapor 9 is better in every category except for durability and lateral stability.