Even though Nike just recently unveiled the KD 8 Elite, the 9 has already stolen all the headlines. During the event to introduce the sneaker, Kevin Durant discussed a number of topics including its design inspiration, and the dramatic decrease in its price tag.
According to Sneaker News, Durant spoke about working with Nike to bring his signature sneakers back to a more affordable price, while maintaining its quality and performance. "It was a collaborative effort. I always wanted my shoes to be affordable, but as I got older and my game started to change, I knew I needed a shoe to fit my game and there’s that compromise of going up in pricepoint. But now as you get into the KD 9, you get a $250 shoe for $150," said Durant. That prices his sneakers well below the KD 8, LeBron 13, and Kobe XI, while still incorporating Nike's popular Flyknit technology. Durant also spoke about how Flyknit ended up in his sneakers, crediting Kobe Bryant as inspiration. "The Flyknit, man. I saw it on the running shoes and Kobe was first on the Kobe 9, so after I saw that I knew I wanted it with my next shoe," said Durant. We're used to seeing sneaker prices continue to rise, so it's great to see Durant push for his to be more affordable, while still advancing its design.
