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Diadora B. Elite Star Tennis Shoe Review
In this article, I have tested the following Diadora tennis shoe models. The products have been received from Diadora in exchange for reviews, and the reviews reflect my true opinions.
This article includes affiliate links, indicated by an asterisk (*). If you purchase through these links, the author may earn a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
Diadora B. Elite Star
Pros & Cons
Details
Model Name: B. Elite Star
Price: $240.00
Court Type: Hard
Summary
The B.Elite Star is Diadora’s lightest and most premium tennis shoe. It is made in Italy using high-quality materials, with leather overlays that give the shoe a clean and solid feel. As Diadora’s flagship model, it also comes with the highest price tag in the lineup. Compared to other Diadora models, this shoe is designed to fit both men and women.
Because the B.Elite Star is such a high-end shoe, this review focuses more on whether it is worth the money rather than purely on its on-court performance. Based on my own experience, the shoe performs very well on court, but considering the high price, premium materials, and overall look, I personally prefer using it more outside the court than for regular match play.
When I tried the shoes on for the first time, the quality was immediately noticeable. Compared to other premium tennis shoes such as the Asics Court FF or K-Swiss Hypercourt Pinnacle, the laces stand out in particular. They are thicker, softer, and feel more elastic than the thin laces usually found on performance-focused tennis shoes. The inside of the shoe also feels very comfortable against the foot, and the sole fits well despite the shoe being a unisex model.
One standout feature that surprised me was the heel technology. From the outside, the heel does not look especially unique, but when walking in the shoes, you can feel a gel-like element that provides a very comfortable and cushioned sensation.
Since the shoes are crafted from premium materials, they do require a break-in period, especially to soften materials like the leather finishes. During this time, the shoes can feel a bit stiff and unnatural, but after a few hours of use, they begin to adapt well to your feet.
During my playtest, I noticed a few minor drawbacks. The first was the thin tongue of the shoe. I experienced a similar issue with Diadora’s B.Icon model, where the laces run over the tongue and can feel firm against the ankle. The second drawback, again similar to the B.Icon model, was the slightly high shoe collar. In certain positions, the collar presses against the ankle and can cause discomfort, although this can improve with a more thorough break-in or depending on your ankle shape.
As mentioned earlier, I prefer to evaluate these shoes based on whether they are worth the price rather than giving them a standard performance-based rating. Taking into account the premium build quality, comfort features, and stylish appearance, I would say they are worth the price if you also intend to use them off the court. In terms of pure on-court performance, there are cheaper models that perform just as well. However, if you are buying them purely as performance tennis shoes and do not place much value on their style, then they may not be worth the price.
Special Features
- Hand assembled in Italy in the Diadora factory in Caerano di San Marco, Treviso.
- ANIMA technology increases midsole responsiveness by 30 percent compared to the standard EVA Light compound, giving the shoe a quicker and more energetic feel.
- Leather inserts on the logo, vamp, tongue and heel.
Material Quality – Outstanding
The overall material quality of the shoe is outstanding. The upper is coated with high-quality rubber and real leather inserts. The mesh underneath the rubber coating is also above average in quality and feels more solid. As mentioned in the summary, the laces feel thicker, softer, and more elastic compared to standard tennis shoe laces.
One drawback in terms of materials is the lightly padded tongue, although this may also be a deliberate design choice.
The heel and ankle area are extremely well finished, with everything feeling smooth and well padded. I did not notice any material rubbing against my foot.
The sole is well constructed with thick rubber, and the grooves feel rigid and durable. It also features an interesting spider-web–shaped design and is mostly flat, with a small horizontal section in the middle.
Lastly, there are a few nice details, such as the Italian flag on the heel and “Made in Italy” written in gold lettering on the upper.
Overall, the B.Elite Star offers some of the best material quality and finishing in the premium shoe category, along with standout looks.
Comfort – Great
For a high-priced tennis shoe, the B.Elite Star offers very good practicality and everyday comfort. It has a lightweight construction, weighing just 13 ounces (370 grams), which makes it slightly lighter than the Nike Vapor Pro 3 (13.5 ounces / 380 grams). This light weight contributes to a feeling of agility and responsiveness.
In terms of comfort, the shoe provides excellent heel cushioning thanks to the technology built into the heel. When walking, you can feel the shoe absorbing impact with every step. The light rubber coating also adds breathability, making it comfortable to wear for longer periods.
Overall, the B.Elite Star offers great comfort for everyday use. However, as mentioned in the summary, I would recommend using it more off the court than on, as you might not want to wear out a shoe of this type.
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