There's a new player in the indoor court shoe market and they make exceptional shoes for squash players looking for a high-end shoe ...
Alex Robertson from Control the 'T' Sports recently got his hands on a pair and here's his review of the new Kanso EQx3 Indoor Court Shoes ...
To take a look at the Kanso EQx3 in our store to see the different colourways we have click -> https://controlthet.com/collections/kanso-indoor-court-shoes
First Impressions
From the moment I unboxed these shoes, the Kanso EQx3 made an instant impression. The sleek, minimalist design speaks to the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship and attention to detail.
When you hold them in your hand, you can instantly feel the quality. The shoe is very lightweight and the premium materials feel absolutely superb.
Also, I'm often not usually particularly fussy when it comes to how my squash shoes look, I generally just want to make sure they fit well, allow me to move fast, and keep me stable, however, I can't deny that I firmly appreciate just how good my white and black pair look.
Of course, there are three other colour options available to suit different styles.
The Kanso Design Philosophy
Just before I dive into the rest of the review, I have to touch on Kanso's brand philosophy, as it's reflected clearly in the products they create.
Kanso is a new brand on the block that combines the precision of Japanese design with the sleek, functional aspects of Swedish engineering, and this is very visible in the EQx3.
Founded by Tomas Solin, a footwear expert with years of experience, Kanso created the EQx3, a shoe that is as much about comfort and performance as it is about style.
Every detail, from the stitching to the sole design, reflects this philosophy.
Fit and Comfort
I was really pleased to see that one of my favourite features of an indoor court shoe was present in the Kanso EQx3, and that's the one-piece Integrated Comfort Fit (ICF) tongue.
This design wraps around your foot snugly, ensuring a secure fit without any uncomfortable pressure points so you barely notice the shoe when it's on (which is the main thing I look for in any indoor court shoe).
The tongue is also crafted with foam inserts, giving it that “magic comfort” feel right out of the box.
I took a few steps before going on court and my foot felt relaxed yet secure.
I wouldn't say these shoes fit small or large, they're very slightly thin at the forefoot, but not thin enough to be any cause for concern.
Performance on the Court
The abundance of technologies featured in this shoe is incredibly apparent as soon as I started doing some light ghosting, it was instantly clear that the Kanso EQx3 is built for optimum performance.
The Speedlight foam (SLF) midsole is where the Kanso EQx3 really shines. This advanced midsole provides exceptional energy return, so every step off the T or lunge into the corner feels explosive.
The SA+ heel pad inserts also do a great job of absorbing impact to minimize strain during heavy landings and quick changes of direction.
The EQx3's Integrated TPU torsion unit in the midsole adds notable stability, giving you the support you need during high-intensity, multi-directional movements that you make again and again in squash.
Paired with a fitted, molded heel cup, this shoe holds your foot in place without restricting your natural movement patterns.
If I had to pick two words to describe the EQx3, they would be comfort and performance. The shoe allows me to move freely and fluidly (with explosive speed) while remaining comfortable and stable.
Traction and Grip
Yet another high-quality material used by Kanso, the outsole of the EQx3 features a unique pattern for impeccable grip, and, it's crafted from a lightweight rubber compound called “Ultra”.
This sole is not only durable (thanks to Kanso's assistance on such high-quality materials), but, it also provides incredible levels of grip on indoor surfaces.
Whether you're pushing off for a sprint or stopping abruptly, the traction keeps you grounded and in control.
Longevity and Durability
The Kanso EQx3 sports a reinforced TPU upper, equipping it to withstand the harsh impacts of general indoor court sport movements.
Also, welded TPU elements add to the shoe’s longevity, which should make it great for players looking for a shoe with a little more longevity.
Of course, since this shoe is so new, I'm unable to say for sure whether it will actually stand the test of time just yet, however, based on how premium they feel and what I know about what went into making them, I would predict that they're built to last.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Kanso EQx3 Indoor Court Shoes offer an incredibly impressive mix of comfort, stability, and performance, all wrapped up in a very stylish package.
They are perfect for players who prioritize both comfort and stability and who are looking for a shoe that will keep up with the demands of intense play.
Personally, after testing them out, the Kanso EQx3 is going to be my shoe of choice for squash from now on.
To see them in action and hear more of my thoughts about the shoe, scroll up and watch the video of me putting them to the test!
