Sneaker Tribe D.O.N. Issue #3 Review

For this week, we have Donovan Mitchell’s shoe, the D.O.N Issue 3. Donovan Mitchell and Adidas are joining a long line of Fresh Prince sneaker history with the release of two new variants of the D.O.N. Issue 3 that invoke the Bel-Air Academy uniform. While both pair blue with a red paisley print, the pattern is applied differently as a nod to how Will Smith wore his school-issued jacket. One pair saves the paisley for accenting, while the other goes with an all-over print to channel Smith turning his jacket inside out to make it more stylish.

As the name suggests, the D.O.N. Issue 3 is Mitchell’s third signature sneaker. It features Light strike cushioning for the first time in the series after previously utilizing Bounce, while TPU panelling is strategically placed across the upper to lock in your feet.

Design

The D.O.N Issue series continues to keep a low-cut silhouette to accommodate Donovan Mitchell’s quick cuts and movements. The base of the upper is a mesh material with fuse overlays around the lacing and toe area. It looks to feature a small mid-foot band along the tongue for extra lockdown. Much like the Issue 2, the lacing emphasises on lockdown around the backside. The TPU piece located in the middle, warps below the ankle to ensure additional lockdown when the laces are tightened.

The outsole pattern of DON issue 3 is almost identical to the spiderweb-like pattern found on the Issue 2 with minor adjustments being made to facilitate the new midsole shape. Also, the D.O.N issue 3 weigh at 12.25 oz making it lighter than average.

Usage

The Adidas D.O.N Issue #3 offers dependable traction with a wide base and the comfortable material makes it feel so good on your feet. However, the cushion doesn't hold up in the long run and the heel slippage also takes away from the shoe a bit. All in all, it is a flexible shoe due to its light weight but potential issues might occur, leaving much to be desired.

Is It worth the money?

The D.O.N Issue 3 is a responsive shoe that feels light on your feet and has a wide base that provides consistent traction. Furthermore, the cushion and support are both reliable. For a shoe with such benefits and is retailing at $170 SGD, we would say it is definitely a steal.  

Summary

Overall, The D.O.N Issue 3's support and lockdown appear to be consistent across the board. When it comes to heel lockdown, however, consistency varies depending on your size. Overall, the Adidas D.O.N Issue #3 is a reliable shoe with continuous traction; however, make sure you order the correct size.