I wrote this during Orlando’s run to the NBA Finals and my stance on the shoe’s design and technical specs hasn’t changed much. If you’re interested in copping a pair of the TS Commander LTs, hit up shopadidas.com. (They’ve got the illy team flavors, too!)

When Dwight Howard takes the court to do battle with the Boston Celtics this evening, he’ll be wearing the adidas TS Commander LT, Adi’s ’09-10 evolution of the reliable TS Commander. The LT was designed with the NBA’s finest “Commanders” in mind and will be sported by “Superman” Howard, Timmy D, and Kevin Garnett when the NBA season tips off next Fall.

At first blush, you’ll notice that the LT’s midsole is augmented by three pronounced Stripes. Folks around headquarters are calling this garish aesthetic advancement “Fat Stripes”; I’m not sure if the bulky branding promises anything in the realm of tangible performance gain, but like early Nikes with a “fat belly” Swoosh, people at your gym will be forced to recognize your adidas adoration. The rest of the shoe’s upper features synthetic leather for reduced weight and perforated overlays that aim to dissipate heat build-up.

Down under, the LT incorporates a multidirectional outsole pattern that’s identical to its ’08 progenitor. I’m happy to report that the rubber pattern provided sticky traction on the court that met my pair, so expect dependency in the traction department.

The LT departs from the TS Commander’s ingenious SELECT Cushioning system by furnishing a linking TPU textile system that wraps around the outsole and is designed to lend perceptible support on lateral cuts and pivot moves. A full-length dual-density EVA midsole is backed by a forefoot adiPRENE+ insert for increased response and rebound.