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[GoodLeave]

So.

Instead of "Who's best". I'm interested in other people's views on "What's changed".

We've seen A fair few of the 2017 offerings now. How do brands compare to last year? Who's upped their game? Who's got it completely wrong. Who hasn't bothered! (Arguably worse). I'll stick to big players, but feel free to bring any brand to the table worth mentioning.

GN

Score: B

2016 was decent for GN, the Supernova was a revalation, especially the duffle. 2017 looks a bit samey, but they've been saved with the introduction of big bats (Halestorm, 50+, XP70/80). Signs of improvement

Kookaburra

Score: A

2016 was hit and miss for me. Ghost was superb, but other offerings such as Onyx/Blade/Ignite didn't really do anything for me. 2017 however looks promising. Ghost continues, Surge looks very nice, We've got coloured, affordable Short Format Softs and another big bat offering in the form of Big Kahunas. Much improved.

GM

Score: A+

2016 was a bit boring for me. Infact, I didn't take any notice of it at all. 2017 however, they've not only upped the stakes in aesthetics, for me they have the most attractive "Collection" when taken as a whole, but we have options on blade lengths without having to go custom. A smart move for me. Top of the class.

New Balance:

Score: C

I've given NB a C, not because the TC and DC ranges are bad, but because they haven't really pushed the boundaries. Still only 2 options, both in similar colourways to 2016. Room for improvement.

Notable mentions:

Puma - Haven't bothered. 3 different colours for the Evopower 1SE (Why?...) and not much else.

Adidas - Hard pushed to find the difference from 2016. Haven't pushed on from the 2016 Boost, the boots I covet the most. Tread plate is now blue, big deal.

Nike - Well. What can I say.

2016 kit: Full Puma Evospeed SE Badger.
2017 kit: Full Kook Surge Badger.