361, a brand dedicated to sports gear, has been making waves in the basketball shoe market in recent years. In July 2025, the 361 ZEN VII series basketball shoes launched with five fresh colorways: Panda, Denver, Silent Thunder, Ink Whisper, and Imperial Blaze. With top-notch performance and standout designs, the ZEN VII series has quickly become a favorite among basketball enthusiasts. Let’s dive into the details of these new colorways and see what makes the ZEN VII series a slam dunk.
ZEN VII Series: Built for Versatile Players
The ZEN VII series combines lightweight construction, affordability, and trendy style. Its standout features include full-length CQT cushioning technology and the Soaring Area propulsion system, paired with a lightweight design and exceptional grip, delivering an elite on-court experience. Below, we’ll break down the shoes’ performance, design, and colorways from multiple angles.
Core Performance Breakdown
1. High Responsiveness: ENRG-X Tech Fuels Explosiveness
The ZEN VII’s midsole features ENRG-X technology, a highly elastic cushioning material that delivers rapid energy return during starts, cuts, and drives. Whether you’re pulling up for a quick jumper or slashing to the hoop, ENRG-X ensures every step feels explosive. In testing, these shoes excelled in quick starts and lateral movements, making them ideal for players who rely on frequent direction changes, like guards and wing players.
2. Superior Cushioning: Qu!kCQTECH Midsole for Comfort and Safety
The Qu!kCQTECH midsole is another key highlight of the ZEN VII. This tech keeps the shoe lightweight while effectively absorbing impact during landings, offering safer protection for your feet. In high-intensity matchups, Qu!kCQTECH stores energy to boost your vertical leap. Real-world wear tests show that these shoes stay comfortable even during long games, reducing foot fatigue.
3. Excellent Support: Multi-Zone TPU Design for Stability
The ZEN VII’s upper uses a special woven material that enhances rigidity while maintaining breathability, perfect for summer games. Multi-zone TPU reinforcements at the toe, midfoot, and heel provide all-around support. Whether you’re stopping short, pivoting, or moving laterally during physical play, these shoes lock your foot in place, minimizing the risk of ankle rolls. In high-intensity testing, the TPU structure delivered reliable stability, giving players confidence on the court.
4. Strong Grip: Low-Cut Design with Durable Rubber Outsole
The ZEN VII features a durable rubber outsole with excellent traction, performing well on both indoor hardwood and outdoor concrete courts. Its low-cut design offers flexibility for players at all five positions, especially those who need quick movements. The outsole’s scientifically designed tread pattern ensures reliable grip during sharp cuts and sudden stops, reducing the chance of slipping.
Five New Colorways: Blending Style and Personality
The ZEN VII series’ five new colorways—Panda, Denver, Silent Thunder, Ink Whisper, and Imperial Blaze—are not only top performers but also visually striking, catering to a range of player aesthetics. Here’s a detailed look at each colorway:
1. Panda: Classic Black-and-White, Sleek and Stylish
The Panda colorway features a black-and-white base with light brown and green accents, inspired by the iconic panda. This design is clean yet vibrant, perfect for players who prefer understated style with a modern edge. The bold black-and-white contrast creates a striking visual, while light brown details add warmth, and green accents bring a fresh touch. It’s versatile enough for both casual wear and on-court flair.
2. Denver: White with Rainbow Accents, Dynamic and Versatile
The Denver colorway starts with a crisp white base, accented by vibrant rainbow details for a lively, multifaceted look. The clean white upper keeps things sharp, while the rainbow accents add a playful vibe. This colorway suits players who love bright, expressive styles, especially under sunlight, where the rainbow details pop with unique visual flair, showcasing your personality.
3. Silent Thunder: Subtle Green, Calm and Composed
Silent Thunder features a soft green base, drawing inspiration from tranquil yet powerful thunderstorms. This understated yet forceful design is ideal for players who want a unique, low-key style. The light green upper feels fresh and natural, with refined details that exude sophistication. It’s a great pick for players who prefer a reserved yet confident look on the court.
4. Ink Whisper: Bold Pink, Vibrant and Expressive
Ink Whisper breaks from traditional basketball shoe color norms with a bold pink base, delivering a youthful, avant-garde vibe. This colorway is perfect for young players eager to stand out. On the court, Ink Whisper commands attention, making it a focal point in both streetball and competitive games. It’s the go-to choice for those who want to make a statement.
5. Imperial Blaze: Deep Red, Bold and Commanding
Imperial Blaze features a rich red base with purple and light brown accents, exuding a commanding, regal presence. The deep red upper radiates power, while purple details add a touch of mystery, and light brown tones balance the palette. This colorway is perfect for players who want a dominant, leadership-driven style, especially in clutch moments.
Who It’s For and Best Use Cases
The ZEN VII’s low-cut design and all-around performance make it suitable for players at every position. Here are some ideal use cases:
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Guards: The high responsiveness and grip make the ZEN VII a top pick for guards who rely on quick drives and sharp cuts.
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Wings: Multi-zone TPU support and cushioning provide stability for wing players who balance offense and defense.
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Bigs: The Qu!kCQTECH midsole’s cushioning protects bigs during intense battles and jumps in the paint.
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Streetballers: Trendy colorways and durable outsoles make the ZEN VII a standout on street courts, blending performance and style.
Price and Release Date
All five ZEN VII colorways are priced at $110, offering incredible value. The shoes officially launched in July 2025 Pacific Time and are available for purchase on the 361SPORT platform via 361’s official website. For players on a budget who still want high-performance gear, these shoes are a no-brainer.
Why the ZEN VII Is a Must-Have
The 361 ZEN VII series stands out as a dark horse in the 2025 basketball shoe market, thanks to its stellar performance and stylish design. From the explosive ENRG-X technology to the cushioned Qu!kCQTECH midsole and stable multi-zone TPU support, these shoes meet every on-court demand. The five new colorways—Panda, Denver, Silent Thunder, Ink Whisper, and Imperial Blaze—offer something for every player’s style.
If you’re in the market for a basketball shoe that blends performance, comfort, and fashion, the ZEN VII series is a must-try. Whether you’re dominating in competitive games or shining on the street court, these shoes will help you stand out and perform at your best!
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