Nike Unveils the LeBron 17, Introducing New "Knitposite" Technology

Almost two weeks away from the start of the NBA Preseason, Nike and LeBron James unveil the LeBron 17, introducing an all-new Swoosh technology, Knitposite.

Evolving from the LeBron 16‘s Battleknit 2.0 upper, LBJ’s 17th signature sneaker combines Nike’s popular Flyknit construction with heat-molded yarns, enhancing durability, support and stretch-resistant; it also allows for fun coloring options.

“We wanted to blend the knit on the 15 and the strength of the Battleknit on the 16. The result is amazing. Once the heat is applied to the knitting process, you get this jewel-like armored exoskeleton that’s stuffed with these yarns,” says the designer of the LeBron 17, Jason Petrie. “It’s both structural and soft in the areas it needs to be.”

1 of 9

2 of 9

3 of 9

4 of 9

5 of 9

6 of 9

7 of 9

8 of 9

9 of 9

What’s more is that this model features the highest-volume heel Max Air unit in a LeBron shoe, providing added shock absorption for his explosive play and aging body. It also includes two independent Air Zoom pods under the forefoot for heightened responsiveness to LeBron’s downhill speed. Max Air in the heel and Air Zoom in the forefoot: the LeBron 17 is the ultimate hybrid cushioning system.

“The lateral and medial pods under the forefoot give him that response and comfort in conjunction with the Max Air bag,” says Petrie. “The way LeBron sees it, he wants to feel confident from the ground up. He doesn’t need help jumping. He wants to feel secure on the way down.”

Additional LB17 details include a myriad of logos and phrases on the tongue, such as LeBron’s crown, “I’m King,” “LJ,” “23” and more.

The Nike LeBron 17 is slated to hit Nike.com and select retailers on September 27, starting with the “Future Air” rendition, which features a grey and orange color scheme with an iridescent tongue and Swoosh.

For more on LeBron’s signature shoes, read about the history of the line’s various cushioning systems.