Still not a 100% back to my pre-pandemic self but getting there. At least tennis is one activity that I became more consistent with. I was a weekend casual player, playing at least once a week.
I've always been a utilitarian such that I don't normally buy things out of whim. For me, the joy of spending is when I was able to buy something needed at a 'good' price. I still wear clothes I've been using since college and I don't care much about the latest trends.
Old Beat Up Shoes
As of late, my tennis shoes have been screaming for replacement as it has already been showing some gaps. I usually also play in shell courts, so these shoes have been used to dirt all the time.
This is the Solecourt Boost from Adidas, which I have been my best shoe so far. The model is good for those who have relatively wide feet and the addition of Boost soles helped a lot for heel cushioning. It has also great support for side stepping; I never had any worries twisting my ankle with these.
Looking Back When It Was Brand New
I got this pair back in 2019 at the Adidas Outlet store in Marikina Riverbanks. This is how it looks like brand new. Back then, it was easy to cop 50% off even from the latest models. Got this for around Php3,500 if I'm not mistaken. I even got an extra pair for running such that with Outlet stores like these, I'll never buy again at full price, so I thought.
I've tried waiting for new shoe models even with other brands; however, I no longer see much discounted tennis gear. Must be because tennis have become popular ever since the pandemic, being one of the sports that was allowed early on.
Most of the models that came out were white which is quite hard to maintain with shell courts. Alas, With my Solecourt pair nearly busting off, I've become desperate in getting a new pair. As a frugal shopper in need, no choice but to grab anything that is discounted.
The New
A brand new pair these days costs around Php7,500. I was able to find an online seller offering Barricade 13 for Php4,250. Even though it's white, I'll take it. That's around 40% discount. May not be the colorway of my choice, but I badly need a reliable pair of tennis shoes asap.
This might be my 4th pair of Adidas tennis shoes. Adidas Barricade has been my staple. I did got curious with Asics, but they're selling at a premium here in the Philippines (Php10,000 for the FF3). Maybe next time if there is a sale.
Meantime, gotta play more tennis and perform better. But sometimes as they say, "If you can't perform, japorm!" ('japorm' is a Filipino slang referring to being stylish. So the saying goes that if you lack on the skill, you can compensate by at least looking good) :)
