The inside of the Superstar Ultra includes a heel pocket with "cat tongue" lining to ensure proper heel lock. The velour lined interior is one of lushness and comfort. The interior of the Shox VC 3 is sophisticated. Flawless and attention to detail like the diamond shape inner lining gives the interior an incredible exclusive feel. The only thing that warrents a complaint is the lack of ventilation on both shoes. It is hardly noticeable but can be a turn off for those seeking hard to please perfectionists.

      This is an area where both shoes lack a thing or two. The Superstar's upper is built to be mid cut and flexible. While this greatly increase performance and comfort, it also loses the much to be desired safety and protection. In this class of shoes, the lack of a good anti-inversion structure is quite disappointing. But where it lacks in support, it tries to make it up in area like overall stability and foot balance. The Shox VC on the other hand, is at the other end of extremes. It is jammed pack with protection and inversion controls. Although it rid itself of the monkey paw, there is now added padding and support specifically with the ankle area in mind. Under normal circumstances, it seems unconscious able for anyone to roll their ankles in these. But it is worth noting that we loath the VC III's overall balance. Its hefty weight and high clearance from the ground causes the shoe to have a lot of body roll and more prone to tip over during peak competition. Extreme side to side cutting and landing will also this shoe more squirrelly than it should be.

      This is hardly a category worth arguing about considering the intended target market for these shoes. If you go into a Ferrari dealership and have to ask for the price tag on a car, then you can't afford it. In the same sense, $160 is an awful lot to spend on a pair of shoes without a Jumpman logo. So if you have for the price, then perhaps you should look elsewhere.. This is where the Superstar Ultra is geared directly at cutting the VC III market share. Those seeking high performance and luxury now have the option to choose a shoe $40 cheaper. The Superstar lacks the flair and flamboyance most buyers seek to at these retail prices. However, the Superstar does make up for a lot of its short comings in areas like flexibility, performance and practicality. So in terms of value for your hard earned dollar, the Ultra is hard to beat.

      It'll be interesting to see how these shoes evolve in the next few years. Both pairs of shoes are OUTSTANDING basketball kicks. While the overall nod goes slightly to the Supserstar Ultra, the real winner will depend on your individual preference with regards to price, performance, comfort and image.