Another NBA season is about to get underway and with it comes another round of signature shoes from Nike and some of the most prominent NBA superstars in the league. First up is the LEBRON X Diamond Collection. Although Nike released the LEBRON X a few weeks back, they keep rolling out new models every few weeks. ‘LLERO was invited to view their current line and we got a sneak peak at future models and a few other surprises.
The Backstory
The line is said to be inspired by diamonds – how they’re made and their resulting beauty. The diamond served as inspiration because it is forged by time, heat and pressure. According to the lines makers although a refined diamond is beautiful, it takes work to get there and starts as a dull rock. Over time, it gains clarity and sharpens with multiple facets. Anyone that has followed James’ career can see the comparisons.
The Styles
On-the-Court
If the back-story for the shoe weren’t enough, each colorway of the LEBRON X has its own meaning. The blue diamond colorway is symbolic of the blue tint diamonds gain from interaction with electricity, which can be paralleled to James’ electric style of play.
The cutting Jade colorway is inspired by the Chinese art of cutting jade using diamonds. The story continues throughout the season with multiple colorways that are linked to the diamond.
Off-the Court
Winning an NBA title is considered a distinction that stands the test of time like a fine champagne, hence the inspiration for – that’s right-a genuine cork version of the LEBRON X. Nike Sportswear said it is looking to bring a sophisticated edge to the shoe with premium materials and fabrication. Be forewarned fellas’ these kicks are intended for a night on the town and not on-court use, otherwise you’ll be sure to scuff these puppies up. When ‘LLERO got a look and feel for the shoe we thought it was just plain cool. Not yet available in stores, these bad boys will be rolled out in limited quantities in December.
The LEBRON X Tech
Nike always innovates and rolls out a new form of technology with each new shoe and the LEBRON X is no different. The LEBRONX+ is Nike’s first signature basketball to feature Nike+ Basketball technology and in three versions: the fully loaded LEBRON X+ Sport Pack – which includes the shoe and the Nike+ Sport Kit, a Nike+ Basketball enabled version with NIKE+ technology embedded in the midsole and a non-enabled version. The technology allows for an interactive experience by letting users track in-game activity and later review, analyze and share that information using the Nike+ Basketball app.
Oh yeah, besides the new kicks King James has pretty slick apparel line that debuted earlier this month for the holiday season. The pieces are also inspired by and continue the theme of the LEBRON X shoe line. Check out a couple of the pieces below.
Pea Coat Destroyer
The pea coat features a wool body and leather sleeves, while signature pea coat buttons, zonal Nike Sphere lining and a longer length make it a stand out.
Earned Not Given Tee
LeBron’s motto, “Earned, not given,” is emblazoned across the three-time MVP’s signature shirt.
Photos Courtesy of Nike