Nike GT Cut 3 Review: ZoomX finally hits basketball — should you buy?
The Nike GT Cut 3 is the first Nike basketball shoe with full-length ZoomX foam. It promises quicker acceleration, strong indoor traction, and a lighter feel. Here’s what matters before you buy.
Key takeaways
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Cushioning: ZoomX is springy and fast, with decent court feel and solid impact protection.
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Traction: Excellent bite on clean hardwood; needs occasional wipes on dusty courts; not ideal outdoors.
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Fit/Sizing: Generally true to size; good lockdown with a slightly flexible upper.
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Best for: Shifty guards/wings who rely on quick stops/starts and sharp cuts.
What’s new vs. GT Cut 2
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Full-length ZoomX replaces the prior setup for a lighter, more responsive ride.
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Refined stability package: breathable textile upper with Flywire and a subtle lateral aid for cuts.
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Outsole mapping: pressure-mapped pods for multi-directional grip.
Traction: stop-start confidence (indoors)
On clean floors the GT Cut 3 bites hard, supporting crossovers, step-backs, and sudden changes of direction. On dusty courts, plan for quick wipes. For longevity, avoid outdoor asphalt—this outsole is tuned for indoor play.
Cushioning: ZoomX done right for hoops
ZoomX brings a lively rebound that helps first-step acceleration and quick lift-off without feeling mushy. Stack heights are tuned to keep you closer to the floor than a typical “max cushion” shoe, so you keep speed and control.
Fit, lockdown & support
The upper is light and breathable, with Flywire tying the forefoot into the lacing for a secure wrap. Heel containment is reliable; lateral containment is good but not “tank-like.” Players who want a very rigid sidewall may prefer a beefier model.
Sizing advice
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Most players: True to size.
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Slightly wide feet: usually fine TTS.
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Narrow, 1:1 fit seekers: some may consider down ½ size, but TTS is the safer call.
Indoor vs. outdoor
Indoors, it shines. Outdoors, rubber wear and dust pick-up reduce value. If you hoop outside often, choose a dedicated outdoor compound.
Price & availability
Typical retail sits in the $190–$200 range depending on colorway and region, with broader availability through the GT line (including budget and “Turbo” variants).
GT Cut 3 vs. GT Cut 2 vs. GT Cut 3 Turbo (quick take)
| Model | Cushioning | Traction | Support/Containment | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| GT Cut 2 | Zoom Air–centric, very connected to court | Very good | More rigid feel | Players who prefer a planted, contained ride |
| GT Cut 3 | ZoomX (full-length), springy | Top tier indoors; dust-sensitive | Good, lighter upper | Shifty guards/wings, quick acceleration |
| GT Cut 3 Turbo | ZoomX + added plate/stability | Similar or slightly improved | Firmer, more stable | Those wanting extra stability vs Cut 3 |
Who should buy
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Guards/wings prioritizing speed, separation, and quick stops.
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Players who want energetic cushioning without losing too much court feel.
Who should skip
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Outdoor hoopers wanting durability.
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Players who need maximum lateral stiffness and a very rigid upper.
Best alternatives to consider
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GT Cut 3 Turbo — a touch more stable and structured if you want extra containment.
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GT Cut Academy — value option for similar on-court feel at a lower price.
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Support-heavy builds (e.g., LeBron-line style) — if you prefer dense foam and stronger sidewalls.
Verdict
The Nike GT Cut 3 successfully brings ZoomX to basketball: fast, lively, and lethal indoors for shifty play. If you live on clean hardwood and play a guard/wing style, it’s a top pick. If you want outdoor durability or maximum lateral rigidity, look elsewhere.
