5 things to know about the LeBron XVII

MANILA, Philippines — As LeBron James gears up for his 17th season in the NBA, Nike is outfitting him with the latest innovation in his newest signature sneaker: the LeBron XVII.

Set to launch in the Philippines starting October 10, the latest LeBron kicks will set you back Php 9,895 a pair.

So what's new about the King's latest kicks? Here are five things you need to know about the LeBron XVII.


1. It has the highest-volume Heel Max Air unit in a LeBron shoe

It's the most Max Air that LeBron's worn in a shoe, set beneath the heel to provide shock absorption for his explosive play.

A soft foam pod directly under the Max Air units add cushioning.

2. The shoe has two independent Air Zoom pods under the forefoot

Combined with Max Air, the Air Zoom provides the ultimate hybrid cushioning.

The Air Zoom units in the forefoot respond to LeBron's downhill speed from point to point.

3. The shoe introduces 'Knitposite'

Evolved from the upper construction from Battleknit 2.0 on the LeBron XVI, the LeBron XVII combines lightweight Flyknit construction with heat-molded yarns that add structure and color.

The result is durable, supportive and resists stretching.

4. Signature LeBron details have shifted to the tongue

In the LeBron XVI, the Lion crest was on the heel of the shoe while the silhouette of LeBron dunking could be found on the outsole.

For the LeBron XVII, the details shift into the tongue, combining phrases and symbols like "I'm King", "LJ" and "23".

"LeBron wanted a more overt tongue for the shoe, which opens up the opportunity for storytelling," LeBron XVII designer Jason Petrie said.

5. The LeBron XVII releases on September 27

The LeBron XVII will be available in three colorways, Purple and Gold, In The Arena and Air Innovation.

They're set to drop on October 10, 20 and 29, respectively.

Will you be copping a pair of the King's newest signature shoe?

source: philstar.com

Nike reacts, and how

I am a sneaker head — I wear sneakers 98 percent of the time, no matter the occasion.

Next to living with my pets, driving cars, my next best thing to do is try out the latest sneakers on the market.

Last Sunday it was off to a fun run at UP Diliman for the launch of a second release of Nike Epic React Flyknit.

Following its Feb. 22 debut, the new Nike Epic React Flyknit colorways, including Pink Matcha, an off-white Alloy (for women) and Horizon (glowing red for women and a dark gray for men), were made available in select Nike stores.

If there is one virtue I truly love about Nike and its sneakers it is that it constantly asks runners (for the Flyknit series) what they look for in a running shoe.

Here’s what the Nike runners asked for: better cushioning, better energy return, lightweight technology and durability.

Time for the test

As I took my first few strides with the Nike Epic React Flyknit I did notice how light and bouncy the sneakers were. A clear sign for me that these shoes were made for running.

I am not a hard-core marathon runner. I am what I like to call a fitness runner — this means I include a five-kilometer outdoor run in my workout schedule at least once a week. On other days, I use the treadmill at the gym for a 20- to 30-minute interval training run-walk-run.

But, today was for a three-kilometer fun run — so I was sure I would get a good feel of just how well my knees would be protected with the Nike Epic React Flyknit.

I mention knees, because when you reach your 50s the knees are the first to buckle if the shoes are not the best for running.
Well, the React’s dynamic is quite straightforward. For starters there is the design, (looks are almost everything when it comes to good kicks, nowadays) so the one-piece Nike Flyknit bootie seems to be precision-engineered for support, flexibility and breathability in the spots where runners need it the most. With all the running technology it is equipped with plus its cool design, the shoe hugs the foot and gives it good support just where it is needed.

More running time

I also love that the Nike React Flyknit, like all Nike sports shoes today, are gender-specific. So, the Nike Epic React Flyknit Women’s Running Shoe allowed me a good run, with no tightness or pinching on my foot — and all these as I hit my stride with the shoe.

I guess this can be attributed to the Nike React foam cushioning, which is responsive, lightweight, durable and soft. 

The Nike Epic React foam is the real deal and made for folks who love to pound the pavement — real runners.

As I joined the warm- up before the run, I noticed how the Flyknit upper fit my foot just right. And, as I did a few foot stretches, my knees and ankles liked that the Flyknit bent the way I wanted it to — not too soft and pliable even when I did a few pivots with my ankles.

My verdict

The Nike Epic React is a lightweight all-around daily training shoe that can take on every workout you can throw at it: from long runs to speed work on the track and treadmill.

With the Nike React Flyknit, Nike has raised the bar by creating a running shoe that feels different, and better.

From an aesthetic standpoint, this shoe is artful, and I think that it will stand as a classic in both design and aesthetic.

But, since I am a fitness junkie, I value functionality, comfort, and durability — even over looks.

source: philstar.com

Sneakers just got loud

MANILA, Philippines -There’s nothing better than a pair of well-worn sneakers that have been everywhere and back with you. Coming out of the gate running with some new styles of sneakers to “get loud” with, Converse is showcasing their new Fall 2013 collection.

The new collection introduces a new shif, making everything look “premium” and attention-grabbing. While Converse celebrates simplicity in its basic design, the new collections uses simplicity as a foundation, adding stunning and bold details. Fall is the time to throw subtlety out the window: it’s time to get loud.

First look at the Chuck Taylor All-Star line, Converse’s most popular and iconic design. The Chucks have evolved from being a functional basketball shoe into the fundamental definition of sneaker culture — the kind of attitude that turns the amp up to 10. Converse is cranking that up to 11 with studs, spikes, and zippers adorned on the classic silhouette.

Converse also mixes it up with materials and textures, from the sheeny-shiny to the sparkly to the rugged — there’s definitely more variety to mix and match outfits with. Inspiration came from 2012s Converse X John Varvatos Collaboration. Much like the 2012 version, it is made of leather. What’s new is the focus on more solid rugged colors, for that well-worn look, and an all-new designer sole.

The Jack Purcell line reached a new level of popularity in Southeast Asia, specifically Hong Kong and Singapore. Named after the eponymous badminton legend, they’re distinguished by a preppier look and trademark “smile” on the toe.

The Cons line has always been an excellent choice for performance and aesthetics. The new Cons signature skateshoes are now equipped with sister-company Nike’s popular Lunarlon soles for better cushioning. Couple that with awesomely vibrant new colorways and you’ve got every reason to go Con.

New designs will be released periodically until October. Check out the Converse Philippines’s Website (www.converse.com.ph), Facebook page (www.facebook.com/ConversePhilippines), and Twitter (@ConversePH) for release announcements.

source: philstar.com