20. Nike Kobe 11 Elite “Mamba Day”
So much happens anymore it’s easy to forget the great moments in recent history. Rewinding back before the NBA Playoffs, Kobe Bryant laced them up for his last night ever as an NBA player. And, oh what a night. Not only did his Nike compadres celebrate #MambaDay on and off the court by rocking the living legend’s kicks, the living legend celebrated as well by dropping 60 points in an epic last game that was also a W. Mamba out as a scorer and a winner? It doesn’t get much more storybook than that.
19. Kith x adidas Tubular Doom
For just about a decade, Ronnie Fieg has been getting it in on the collaboration end by doing everything from resurrecting retro running for ASICS to building a retail empire far outside of footwear. Kicking off the adidas Consortium Tour in January, Ronnie and Kith made the most of their fashion forward prowess by decking out the Tubular Doom in a subtle yet striking makeup.
18. Nike Kyrie 2 “Kyrache”
Over the years, Nike Basketball has done a great job of paying homage to their rich history on new models by way of releases like the Hyperize “Decades” Pack and many other heritage makeups. With that said, the Nike Kyrie 2 “Kyrache” may take the cake as best blend of old and new. Setting off Irving’s second silo with the trademark tongue and blue, berry and black color combo, these are just as good with gold Michigan shorts as they are with Elite socks.
17. Nintendo x Vans Collection
The Nike MAG 2016 with power-lacing will certainly be the pop-culture footwear moment once the auctions go live, but until then the Nintendo x Vans Collection is the winner for fun footwear with an audience outside of sports or sneaker culture. Outfitted for the whole family and a cool conversation piece in any arena, the points for packaging and knack for nostalgia make these another power play from Vans.
16. Nike KD 9 “Zero”
Does Kevin Durant have the best shoe in basketball? As it currently stands, yes. While the regular season belonged to Steph and LeBron stole the show in the Finals, KD will be all the talk of the offseason and his shoe will dominate the summer. And while the move to Oakland will help keep his name hot, it’s the combo of Flyknit and Zoom Air for $150 that will do numbers before play even starts.
