Shoe Review: K-Swiss Hypercourt Supreme 2

• Price: $145 (buy here)
• Weight: 13.9 oz. (men’s 9); 11.3 oz. (women’s 7)
• Size Run: 7-12, 13, 14 (men); 5-10, 11 (women)
• Outsole Warranty: None

What’s New

K-Swiss took the positives of the original Hypercourt Supreme and looked to give the shoe a more supportive and substantial feel. A new dual-density midsole puts high-rebound Shock Spring in the forefoot for greater energy return and lightweight Surgelite in the rearfoot for a plusher ride. Tweaks to the ankle collar give it thicker padding and improved fit, as well as modifications to the tongue for easier entry. The upper on the shoe also got more durable with reinforced polyurethane in high-wear areas.

What Works

If you’re in the market for a new shoe and in the wilderness about where to look, the Hypercourt Supreme 2 would be a good starting point. It’s a solid, stable mover with tons of comfort. Whether a casual player looking for a plush ride or a hardened competitor needing dependability, it can fit the bill.

The updated upper sports a quasi-half-bootie/gusseted tongue construction that hugs the foot while still allowing for routine entry. There’s improved padding all around the ankle for a soft, securer fit. It does raise the collar a bit—not a mid-cut, but higher than standard. Although not a requirement, it probably means a sock high enough to cover the ankle bone to prevent rubbing.

A protective layer of TPU gives the upper some toughness and support. The medial side by the forefoot has been fortified with thicker material (Durawrap X) to offset the effects of toe-dragging. Numerous cutouts around the shoe allow the mesh underneath to breath and promote greater ventilation.

The cut of the shoe is neutral to slightly wide and should accommodate most foot types. K-Swiss shoes can be roomy, but the Supreme 2 feels more streamlined. Players with wider feet may require a break-in period to stretch out the upper a bit, although it should be fairly minor.

It’s a no hassle to lockdown the shoe thanks to the easy cinching from the loop eyelets on the lacing system. Those looking for even tighter security can employ the optional runner’s knot. They also have the bubble Stay-Tied laces—a K-Swiss staple—that does a great job of resisting untying without the need for a double loop. It’s a minor advantage, but it’s often the little details that can make a difference.

Once in motion, the shoe’s plush cushioning—arguably its best feature—is readily apparent. It has a dual-density midsole of Shock Spring foam in the forefoot for better bounce and responsiveness, and denser Surgelite in the heel for greater shock absorption. It does a superb job of soaking up harsh landings, even on an unforgiving hard court.

A midfoot shank helps maintain the shoe’s structure and stability on sharp cuts. It also has a fairly wide base, giving it more support when stretched wide and pushing out of corners. The high degree of dependability produces confidence to move without any hesitation.

The high-density rubber outsole is fashioned with a fairly shallow herringbone pattern. It starts out grippy but doesn’t take long to get slick enough for hard court slides. Durability is first-rate, with DragGuard strategically located in high wear areas to combat abrasion.

What Needs Work

The updates to the Supreme 2 has improved its support and sturdiness, but consequently have increased the overall mass of the shoe. While not sluggish or too burdensome to maneuver over a long day on the courts, it certainly wouldn’t classify as a speed shoe. It seems best for players who prefer models that favors substance, cushioning and support over ultimate quickness.

Similarly, the cushioning is superb but can rob of some court awareness. At times it can feel squishy—especially early on—and has a slightly elevated heel. However, it’s a minor quibble and sacrifice that many players will make in an otherwise solid and steady shoe.

Lastly, the shoe purports to be an all-surface performer, but the Supreme 2 is probably best-used on a hard court. The tread isn’t deep and doesn’t reliably dig into and channel through clay, making for some uncertain maneuvering. Players who compete on both surfaces may want another option with a dedicated clay outsole.

Bottom Line

With its first-rate cushioning, stability and durability the Hypercourt Supreme 2 is a go-to offering in the K-Swiss lineup.