In an effort to maximize performance, Nike has worked in tandem with three of the best basketball players in the world. Kevin Durant, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James have all lent their expertise to the design and implementation of the KD 7, the Kobe X and the LeBron 12. With the Elite series collections launching in April, May and June, they’ve magnified the performance capabilities of the signature lines even further in three new colorways.
The first, Nike Elite Series Team Collection, launches April 18 and features the team colors (see above) of Bryant, Durant and James.
The second, Nike Elite Series Elevate Collection, features an homage to sky blue, and launches May 15.
The third and final colorway is available June 5. The Nike Elite Series Rose Gold Collection was inspired by every player’s quest for the gold of the Larry O’Brien Trophy.
The Nike Basketball Elite Series features nine total shoes, three colorways each for the KOBE X Elite, KD7 Elite and LEBRON 12 Elite, all of which are detailed below.
The shoes are available globally in limited quantities at nike.com and select retail locations. Apparel that coordinates with each colorway is also available for the Elite Series.
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KOBE X ELITE
The KOBE X Elite features a Nike Flyknit upper construction with dynamic Flywire technology for superior strength, breathability and support. The shoe is the first Flyknit basketball shoe constructed with recycled polyester yarn – each pair is knit with the equivalent of five recycled plastic bottles. Designer Eric Avar used a high-cut silhouette for proprioception.
The KOBE X Elite’s dynamic traction, hybrid cushioning system (Lunarlon, Nike Zoom Air and Nike Free-inspired siping combined) and modern aesthetic result in a new standard for performance footwear.
KD 7 ELITE
The KD7 Elite is designed to enhance natural motion and responsiveness without compromising strength. Hyperposite upper construction is now perforated to minimize weight and deliver zoned breathability.
The shoe’s three primary features include Hyperposite upper construction, dynamic Flywire technology and Nike Zoom Air cushioning. Designer Leo Chang built the shoe to be light and tight, optimized for performance in a clean aesthetic.
LEBRON 12 ELITE
The LEBRON 12 Elite embodies pinnacle performance and indisputable strength, much like James himself. The LEBRON 12 Elite leverages high-quality Megafuse construction with mesh and composite for structure and features new vertical wings wrapping the foot for lockdown and stability.
The shoe now features six visible, independent Nike Zoom Air units that provide low profile, responsive cushioning. The strategic placement of the pods is engineered for James’s explosiveness and his multidirectional movement.
[NIKE]
