The XVIII's featured the most quality, luxurious components of all the shoes tested in this category. Its traction is nearly unmatched. The downside of the equation is that the XVIII is a tad on the porkier side. It could've shed a bit more weight. All the comfort and features that comes with the shoe makes it more luxurious than true performing. Don't take this the wrong way; the XVIII can deliver up to task at the highest level of competition. Turn the foot towards one direction and the shoe quickly plants and follows. Yet you can't help but notice that good performance alone does not tell the whole story. There's little feedback on the actual physics at work where the rubber meet the court. This is the result of a lot of good technology but you really need to pinch yourself and wonder if all of that is necessary. Instead of the added technology and weight, perhaps Air Jordans would be better off going back to the basic yet awesome performances provided by the likes of the AJ XIV. The boxy toe area is nice for comfort but allows the forefoot to slide around and decreases overall performance fit. The internal lacing system is also harder to tie up for a full locked down fit. While Brand Jordan's primary intent is always focused on performance, the XVIII exhibits more focus on the overall package rather than any single category. Its poor ventilation and high price tag also diminish its chances in the end.

2nd Place - Air Zoom Ultraflight

      The Ultraflight became the closest competitor in the final struggle with the Zoom Flight 2K3 for Best Performance in 2003. At near exact price ranges and with similar technology used, both shoes focused on performance. The Ultraflight was able to better the Flight 2K3 in overall comfort, lightness and flexibility. It is also a fan favorite due to its sporty minimalism. It won the online voting by 4% but could not keep the lead as we tally up all the performance statistics. What hurt the Ultraflight was its discomfort at the ankle area and overall ankle support falls well short of the Flight 2K3. We also began having durability issues after 15 wears. The bottom sole is quite narrow and the traction loses its competitive grip over time. The Ultraflight is a great shoe and would have taken the cake in just about any other year. However, with all things considered, it falls short of being our 2003 PSOTY. To be completely fair, we would recommend the Ultraflight over the Flight 2K3 to a slashing guard who seeks a performance shoe that is not too restrictive.