Li-Ning Saga II Max BOA (AYAT001-1) review

Full review

Li-Ning is the other giant of Asian badminton equipment, and the Saga line is its performance court shoe family. The Saga II Max BOA is the top-tier version, and its defining feature is a BOA dial in place of laces. Turning the dial tightens the whole upper evenly, which is quicker than relacing and appeals to players who like to loosen their shoes between games and lock them down again before a decider.

Underfoot, the Danish authorised distributor lists BOOM technology in the heel for shock absorption, Bounce+ in the forefoot for push-off, LN Cloud cushioning along the whole midsole and an integrated carbon plate for stability when you change direction or brake. Probar LOC adds arch support, and the upper uses BOOM Fiber with Cool Shell for ventilation and Tuff Tip reinforcement on high-wear spots. The outsole is Tuff RB rubber.

The listing does not give a weight, width or sizing advice. One retailer lists 320 g, but we could not confirm that with Li-Ning, so treat it as an estimate. The size range is wide for a performance shoe, running up to EU 46 1/3.

It is aimed at ambitious players and carries a premium price. If you want a Li-Ning shoe for less, the Saga III Lite is sold in the UK at a lower price, though it comes with fewer published details.