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The Nike SB Zoom Paul Rodriguez 4 High is a shoe that's set to instigate some strong opinions. Leaked lookbook shots months ago weren't the best of starts, making the angular rear look downright goofy—and we're not talking stances here. In the flesh, it's not nearly as peculiar looking. The green suede variation is genuinely banging, and this black on black variation is decent. The whole Aztec and Egyptian theme that's visible on the footbed and outsole patterning gets a little wilder here, as the triangular heel detailing is echoed in the overall silhouette.

Whereas the low pares it down, this is a far stranger proposition than just adding a few more vertical inches to the original in a P-Rod 2 High style. The suede effect around the rear and front midsole and oddly awesome embossed leather swoosh on the outsole are cool, and that seems to help channel the general mix of casual and skate performance potential of this model.

The mimimised padding around the collar and texture change from premium leather to suede works. Our only concern is the vast space on that heel begging for a bonus bit of branding, but they're pretty comfortable. Seeing as Paul's getting his own line in a Jordan style next season, we're keen to see SB go all out along these lines and create something truly peculiar for part 5. We think Mr. Koston would approve. Not to all tastes, but admirably odd. These drop soon in your usual core skate spots.