The beefiest member of the bunch somehow finished second in the Shootout. Unlike the other two, the Foamposite Max is truly a big man's shoe. Composed of Foamposite technology all around, the FP Max added full length Total Air Max cushioning to provide the maximum comfort and impact protection. The cushioning never felt like it was going to bottom out. Ankle support is fantastic, rising high and when laced tightly provides the utmost safety for those battles in the paint.

      What makes this shoe unique is it's combination of style and quality. A few years back, we would've laughed but today, the Foamposite Max is simply a masterpiece that was well ahead of its time. Styling is extremely bold, especially in the silver trim, which make the shoes appear like space-age boots. The black colorway, on the other hand, exudes a commanding presence of elegance, classiness and luxuriousness. Quality on this shoe is as good as ANY shoe we have ever tested. The superiority of material used, craftsmanship and attention to detail is simply unmatched. Everything adds up to durability rating of 9.5/10. We are expecting this shoe to withstand the toughest of battles. To sum it up, imagine a black Cadillac Escalade roaming down the highway and you'll have an idea what the Foamposite Max is all about.

      There's no question the Foam Max is luxurious and comfortable. The reason why it finished second in our test is because all of that came at the expense of true performance. The stiff upper restricts too much mobility in side to side movements. Cuts proved to be difficult and responsiveness lacking (expect body roll, lots of it). The sheer weight of it all makes the shoe feel clunky and obstructive. And at this price range and class category, we expected more performance. Sitting so high off the ground, the FP Max almost makes you feel like you are standing on stilts. However, to be fair, for a PF or a C that camps in the post all day, the disadvantages that we mentioned can turn into more of an advantage.

      So how did the Foam Max sneak in ahead of the Foamposite Pro? Check out the current Collectibility and Value. Everyone is trying to get their hands on a pair of the Max. Expect to drop in excess of two Ben's for a deadstock pair of the black one we tested. Even Nike has recognized the demand and will re-release the shoe early next year - despite the fact it never sold well the first time. A truly great big man's shoe is difficult to find like a diamond in the rough. People never really criticized the drafting of Olajuwon before Jordan (even though Jordan became the greatest ever) simply because that gem in the center only comes once a lifetime. Even though the Pro is a better performer, with all things considered, the Max narrowly edges out the Pro in this Ultra-Luxury & Performance comparison.