The And1 Too Chillin’ 2013 (off-court)

[Sole Spotlight – 7.22.13] – The And1 Too Chillin’ 2013 (off-court)

Inks: FLASH aka g_sk1lls

Images: FLASH and various online sources

It’s been quite some time already since Sole Spotlight focused on an AND1 off-court pair, and this month – we highlight one of the most revolutionary models of all time, AND1’s Tochillins, recently retooled and re-released as the Too Chillin’ 2013.  This model’s predecessor, the original Tochillins was the most commercially successful model in AND1’s history.  Featuring some minor tweaks from the original design  – the popular off-court pair is back for 2013 in different colorways.  Posted below some images of the said model.

This model (and all of its color variants) features:

o    Lycra mesh, antimicrobial foam cools foot.

o    Heel pull-tab allows for easy entry/exit.

o    Molded EVA midsole offers cushion.

o Herringbone outsole eases movement & reduces weight.

Originally announced exactly a year ago (click HERE for the July 2012 article), the Too Chillin’ 2013 sports a different sole from the original, but fuses old and current AND1 logos on the final product – giving that throwback feel with the modern treatment.

Classic Tochillin and Too Chillin' 2013 comparison.

Check out the throwback AND1 “boomerang” logo on this silhouette.

Personally, I felt that the shoe didn’t run true to size - probably owing to the original mold.  When buying a pair, it’s highly recommended to get one size bigger (not even a half size upgrade).  That means if you’re regularly a size 10 US in AND1 performance kicks, you might want to get a size 11 US for the Too Chillin’ 2013 for that maximum comfy feel.  Other than that, this shoe is automatically a must-cop for any AND Juan out there.

More pictures of the shoe below.  I originally had a similar pair back in the day, and other than sheer nostalgia, this pair offers a comfortable alternative to wearing slippers/sandals before and after a good hooping session.  Sneakerheads and regular basketball junkies are also sure to appreciate the simple and yet stylish look that this model brings.

This model is set to be released within Q3 of this year according to sources from AKT!V / Relzbach (local distributor of AND1).  Colorway selections are as follows:

• V.Red/White/Silver
• Royal/White/Silver
• Black/White/Silver 

Check us out regularly for more Sole Spotlight features from AND1 Ph as we continue to post new models in the coming months.  ONE!

The And1 Entourage Mids 5 Elements pack – Water (performance)

[Sole Spotlight – 7.4.13] – The And1 Entourage Mids 5 Elements pack – Water (performance)

Inks and Images: FLASH aka g_sk1lls

Hey AND Juans, Sole Spotlight for the month of July features a new colorway from the recently released Entourage Mids model of AND1.  Part of the 5 Elements pack that is yet-to-be-released locally – the Water pair (alongside Fire, Metal, Wood, and Earth) sports a wave-like skin, and comes in a bright blue/gray colorway.  S/O to Rob Purvy and AJ Vander Woude (AND1 US) for this recent batch of shoes that I received last June 2013.

Water and Wood (green) are set to be released within Q3 of this year according to sources from AKT!V / Relzbach (local distributor of AND1).  The 5 Elements pack was previously featured here in AND1 Ph, click here for the related article.  Posted below some images of the said model.

This model (and all of its color variants) features:

-          Upper:

o    High density synthetic upper material provides lighter weight and increased durability.

o    Hybrid low-sew process enhances comfort.

o    Triangular quarter ventilation windows provide great breathability and lateral support.

o   Mesh tongue keeps the feet cool.

-         Bottom:

o    High rebound sockliner provides excellent energy return.

o    Molded EVA midsole design gives extra cushioning.

o    Non-marking, high quality tinted rubber compounds provides great traction.

o    Extended airbag provides comfort and reduces shock.

o L2G design provides optimal court feel by reducing distance from the ground.

AND1's version of icy soles.

I’ve recently hooped with this model on the hardwood, and I’m so impressed with its performance that I’m making it my default playing pair whenever I use a blue jersey.  While I’m currently using the Empire Mids for playing (both varsity red/white and white/blue/red Japan CW), the Entourage Mid has slowly entrenched itself in my sneaker rotation to ball in.  This pair is a must-get, as it boasts of good breathability, ankle support, superior traction, and yes – just the right weight.

Check out the Kanji symbol on the heel section, matching the dynamic colors that tie back to the Water element.

On a personal note, I wish this Water CW had a different color of laces, but that’s just a minor gripe as those can easily be replaced to match any jersey/pair of shorts.  I’m currently keeping the stock laces, but I might swap it for another pair of electric blues or quite possibly a gray set (to match the sole’s colors).

More pictures of the shoe below.  Similar to the Empire/Empire 2.0 Mids’ performance, this pair is recommended for players looking for a shoe that can provide comfort, support, performance, and on-court attitude (the 5 Elements pack does feature some bright colorways, making them highly noticeable).

Sole Spotlight from AND1 Ph will continue to feature more new models in the coming months.  Stay tuned and check us out regularly, AND Juans.  ONE!