TOP FLEX is the futsal shoe for you if you want a gum-sole: The appeal of TOPS2121IN and TOPS2122IN

When looking at futsal shoes, you still often see what are known as "gum soles."

I feel like the number of models with gum soles has decreased compared to the past, but you still see them quite commonly on shoes designed for gym use.

Especially for those who have been playing futsal for a long time,

I imagine they might even associate this color with "gym shoes."

In this post, I'd like to introduce Joma's classic model that features just such a gum sole: the "TOP FLEX."

Specifically, the black TOPS2121IN and the white TOPS2122IN.

Compared to recent futsal shoes, they are quite simple.

But there's something great about that simplicity.

These are two pairs I would easily recommend to someone wearing Joma for the first time.

*This article was written by Futsal.shop, a retailer of Joma futsal shoes, based on a hands-on review of the actual products.

What exactly is a "gum sole"?

As the name suggests, a gum sole is an outsole with a brownish color that resembles candy or gum.

They are also sometimes called "gum soles."

They have long been used not only in futsal but also for shoes used in indoor sports centers, such as volleyball and handball.

Recently, there has been a significant increase in colored outsoles—white, black, or matched to the color of the shoe itself.

It no longer feels quite as synonymous with "gym shoes" as it used to.

Nevertheless, you still see them quite often.

Personally, I think that slightly retro look is part of the appeal of gum soles.

It gives them that classic, dedicated gym shoe feel.

[Photo: Full view of the TOP FLEX gum outsole]

The beauty of gum soles is that they work in almost any gym

A major reason for choosing a gum sole is that they are very gym-friendly.

Depending on the gymnasium, there may be specific rules regarding the outsoles of the shoes you can use.

Some gyms allow colored outsoles as long as they are "non-marking," while others specifically require gum or white soles.

Therefore,

I cannot say that "a gum sole guarantees you can play in any gym."

Ultimately, you need to check the facility's rules.

However, for those who visit various different gymnasiums, gum soles are a very safe bet.

You aren't just playing at your usual practice location; you might be visiting new gyms for tournaments, practice matches, casual futsal events, or away games.

In those cases, if you're wearing flashy-colored soles, you might wonder:

"Can I really wear these shoes here?"

With a gum sole, that worry is relatively minimal.

Usability over flashiness.

I think that is one reason why gum soles remain popular today.

Despite the gum sole, they are stamped "NON MARKING"

If you look at the outsoles of the TOPS2121IN and TOPS2122IN, they are stamped with "NON MARKING."

 

[Photo: NON MARKING stamp on the outsole]

"Non-marking" refers to a specification designed to prevent the shoes from leaving marks on gymnasium floors.

So, it’s not just that they look like gym shoes because they have gum soles;

they are actually built with non-marking specifications.

I think this is easy to confirm if you take a look at the photo.

If you are looking for indoor futsal shoes, I recommend checking not just the upper and the color, but also taking a look at the outsole.

Gum soles also offer solid grip

Since you're using them for futsal, performance—not just looks—is crucial, and that includes grip.

Futsal is a sport that involves frequent sudden stops, sharp turns, and explosive steps.

On the flat floor of a gymnasium, the feel of the outsole is a very important factor in choosing a shoe.

The TOP FLEX uses a rubber outsole that provides a secure grip on the floor.

However, personally, I find that rather than being "aggressively high-grip," they offer a sense of control thanks to their flexibility.

As this model has been worn for futsal for a long time, this balance is exactly what makes the TOP FLEX what it is.

Another perk: dirt isn't very noticeable

This is slightly different from performance, but it's a genuine advantage of gum soles.

White outsoles look beautiful when brand new, but they can quickly show grime and dirt as you use them.

In that regard, gum soles are naturally brownish, so even after quite a bit of wear, the dirt doesn't stand out much.

Of course, that doesn't mean they don't get dirty.

They definitely do.

However, a little bit of dirt doesn't significantly change the overall look.

When you think about shoes that you wear to the gym every week, this is a nice feature to have.

There's just something about that traditional look

The appeal of gum soles goes beyond just function.

The look is a major factor, too.

The TOPS2121IN has a black upper with a gum sole.

The TOPS2122IN has a white upper with a gum sole.

Both are very simple.

[Photo: TOPS2121IN and TOPS2122IN side by side]

The black and gum colorway, in particular, has a very old-school, traditional gym shoe vibe.

The white and gum combination is also a classic choice.

Recent futsal shoes have become quite flashy in their color schemes.

Those look cool, of course, but there's something fresh about seeing such a simple shoe.

Retro-looking.

A bit understated.

But that really suits the TOP FLEX.

When you think Joma, you think TOP FLEX

Joma offers many different futsal shoes.

Models like the REGATE, INVICTO, and TOP FLEX REBOUND all offer different fits and feels.

However,

if you asked me, "I want to try Joma, but which one should I pick?"

I would easily recommend the TOP FLEX.

When people think of Joma, they think of the TOP FLEX.

I’m sure many of you feel the same way.

The standout feature of the TOP FLEX is definitely the softness of the upper.

It has a way of molding to your feet as you wear them.

It’s a different direction from the thin, ultra-lightweight futsal shoes of today.

If you like shoes that feel like they’re hugging your feet,

if you prefer soft shoes,

or if you like traditional-style futsal shoes,

this is a perfect fit for you.

Recommended even for those new to Joma

The TOP FLEX isn't just a "shoe for beginners."

Many competitive futsal players wear them regularly.

But it is highly recommended for people trying Joma for the first time.

When you're buying a brand for the first time, it can be hard to know which model represents the brand's true character.

In that sense, the TOP FLEX is easy to understand.

A soft upper.

A classic, long-standing design.

An outsole that’s great for gym use.

If you're thinking, "I want to try a pair of Jomas,"

I think starting with the TOP FLEX is an excellent choice.

It’s also a great first pair for someone who has just started playing futsal.

There's no rule that says beginners have to choose "beginner-specific" models, so it's perfectly fine to start with a classic.

The black TOPS2121IN

The black model is the TOPS2121IN.

[Photo: Product shot of the TOPS2121IN]

Black upper with a gum sole.

It’s the gold standard.

If you don't like flashy colors, this is the one for you.

It matches just about any gear.

You won't get tired of it, even after lots of use.

Personally, if you want to see the slightly classic vibe of the TOP FLEX, I think the black model showcases it best.

It’s the quintessential futsal shoe.

It’s the quintessential gym shoe.

That’s the vibe.

The white TOPS2122IN

The white model is the TOPS2122IN.

[Photo: Product shot of the TOPS2122IN]

This one has a lighter impression than the black.

However, since the outsole isn't pure white, the inclusion of the gum color gives it a slightly more composed look.

If you like white shoes,

but don't like the recent flashy designs,

this is an easy choice.

Since the performance doesn't differ significantly between the black and white models, you can safely base your final decision on the aesthetic you prefer.

Available in 0.5cm increments from 23.0cm to 30.0cm

The TOPS2121IN and TOPS2122IN are available in 0.5cm increments from 23.0cm to 30.0cm.

This range of sizes is something I personally want to highlight.

When you look for futsal shoes, you might find that models often become scarce once you hit 28cm or larger.

You think, "These are great," only to check the sizes and find yours is sold out.

If you have larger feet, I’m sure you’ve experienced this at least once.

Since the TOP FLEX goes up to 30.0cm, it's easier for people who usually wear 28.0cm, 28.5cm, or 29.0cm to find a pair.

Conversely, because it starts from 23.0cm, those with smaller feet are also covered.

And they come in 0.5cm increments (23.0, 23.5, 24.0...).

It might seem normal to see such a size range, but it's actually quite rare and appreciated to find a futsal shoe that spans from 23.0cm to 30.0cm.

It's handy to have one pair of gum soles

Designs for futsal shoes have increased significantly in recent times.

Colored outsoles have become the norm.

So, if you look only at the gum sole, some might perceive it as a bit old-fashioned.

Even so, you still see them everywhere in gyms.

Gym-friendly.

Non-marking specification.

Reliable grip.

Dirt doesn't bother you as much.

And the classic look of a traditional gym shoe.

There are real, tangible benefits to a gum sole.

The TOPS2121IN and TOPS2122IN combine those gum soles with Joma's classic TOP FLEX.

They’re perfect for someone trying Joma for the first time, or for anyone looking for a simple, dependable shoe for the gym.

Black or white?

That’s entirely a matter of preference.

You don't need something flashy.

You want a classic that is easy to use in the gym and will last a long time.

If that describes you, these are two pairs you should definitely take a look at.

Check inventory and sizes for the Joma TOP FLEX TOPS2121IN and TOPS2122IN at Futsal.shop