The Li-Ning All City 14 and All City 14 Encore follow a similar versatile basketball-shoe concept, but the Encore is more than a simple colorway or cosmetic revision. Its main changes are concentrated underfoot, with updates to the cushioning system, LIGHT FOAM ULTRA structure, and outsole configuration, while the core stability system remains largely consistent.
Midsole: Dual-Layer Cushioning vs Full-Length SUPER BOOM
The most significant difference is the cushioning setup.
The standard All City 14 uses a two-layer midsole combining full-length BOOM with SUPER BOOM. This configuration is designed to balance cushioning, impact protection, and responsive energy return.
The All City 14 Encore switches to a full-length SUPER BOOM setup. This places greater emphasis on the lightweight and high-rebound characteristics of SUPER BOOM, giving the Encore a more responsive underfoot configuration.
That does not automatically make the Encore better for every player. The standard All City 14 retains a more balanced two-layer cushioning arrangement, while the Encore shifts the emphasis toward quicker response.
Stability: Euro Plate TPU + PROBAR LOC Remain
Both models retain Euro Plate TPU and PROBAR LOC as their primary stability components.
The Euro Plate TPU provides anti-torsional and lateral support, helping manage multidirectional loading during cuts and changes of direction. PROBAR LOC reinforces arch support and works with the Euro Plate to assist force transmission through the midfoot.
This means the Encore changes several underfoot components without removing the structural stability system used on the standard All City 14.
LIGHT FOAM ULTRA: A More Extensive Structure on the Encore
LIGHT FOAM ULTRA is another area where the two models differ.
On the standard All City 14, LIGHT FOAM ULTRA is used as a heel-support structure.
The Encore uses an extended LIGHT FOAM ULTRA structure, increasing its role within the overall support system. Combined with the full-length SUPER BOOM setup, this helps the Encore maintain stability while pursuing a lighter and more responsive ride.
Outsole: TUFF RB vs TUFF RB + GCU
The outsole also receives a meaningful update.
The All City 14 uses a TUFF RB outsole, with an emphasis on traction and abrasion resistance.
The All City 14 Encore combines TUFF RB with GCU, creating a mixed-material outsole configuration that places greater emphasis on traction while retaining durability-oriented rubber where appropriate.
Actual grip will still depend on court surface, dust, outsole wear, and playing conditions, but from a configuration standpoint, the Encore places a clearer emphasis on traction performance.
Which One Makes More Sense?
The distinction between the two models is relatively straightforward.
The All City 14 is the more balanced option, with its configuration emphasizing cushioning, stability, and durability. It makes sense for players looking for a versatile setup without placing too much emphasis on any single performance characteristic.
The All City 14 Encore shifts the formula toward a lighter, more responsive feel with a stronger focus on traction. Full-length SUPER BOOM, the extended LIGHT FOAM ULTRA structure, and the TUFF RB + GCU outsole are the main changes behind that direction.
Final Take
Neither model is universally better.
The All City 14 offers a more balanced overall setup, while the All City 14 Encore places greater emphasis on responsiveness, a lighter underfoot feel, and upgraded traction.
For most players, the choice comes down to whether they prefer the balanced character of the standard All City 14 or the quicker, more responsive direction of the Encore.