From High School Star to King: Dissecting the Nike Air Zoom Generation
Fit for a King.
Over ten years ago, Nike welcomed then high school superstar LeBron James to the Swoosh family before he even touched the hardwood of an NBA floor. It’s safe to say they gambled well. Fast forward the clock to 2017 and we have witnessed the first retro of King James’s debut signature sneaker in the Nike Air Zoom Generation. Four NBA MVPs and three NBA Championships later, we now take a look back at what went into the design of LeBron’s debut Nike sneaker.
Combining the genius minds of Tinker Hatfield, Eric Avar and Aaron Cooper, the Nike Air Zoom Generation’s blueprint lays on the foundation of comfort. Per LeBron’s request, comfort was a priority as its overall aesthetic followed suit. Looking at James as the modern day soldier of the basketball court, you’ll find the same materials found in Nike’s SFB Boot, which receives a military influence with materials such as leather and ballistic mesh.
In addition to the soldier-like inspiration, the model also took an influence from modern day sports utility trucks, a subtle nod at the controversial H2 Hummer that James received while being a top recruit in high school. These special nods can be seen throughout the shoe via its Metallic Silver hits along the heel, toe-box and top lace eyelets.
After flying off of the shelves in stores and selling out instantly online, it’s safe to say that the Nike Air Zoom Generation is a favorite silhouette amongst many. This only raises hope that more LeBron signature retros are on the horizon.
Take a look at the designs above and let us know what you think below.
