New Balance KAWHI to Debut in "Four Bounces" Colorway
A nod to Kawhi’s infamous shot from the 2019 Eastern Conference Semi-Finals, accompanied by matching 850s, sandals and apparel.
Kawhi Leonard and his Los Angeles Clippers are set to face Luka Doncic and the Dallas Mavericks in the first round of the NBA Playoffs — and ahead of the postseason’s tip-off, Leonard’s New Balance KAWHI is set to debut in a “Four Bounces” colorway. Inspired by Leonard’s memorable buzzer-beater in the 2019 Eastern Conference Semi-Finals that sent the Philadelphia 76ers packing and star center Joel Embiid weeping into the arena tunnel, the “Four Bounces” also marks New Balance‘s first true signature basketball sneaker.
Dressed in black, blue and gold, the “Four Bounces” is packed full of Kawhi-specific detail. The 5/8 cut upper features “M” detailing and latitude/longitude coordinates that salute Kawhi’s hometown of Moreno Valley, California, plus eyelets and quilted heel tabs that nod to his old-school car. Embossed details inspired by his cornrows appear on the collar strap, and accolades are listed on the inside of the tongue. Even the color has meaning: it draws directly from the OMN1S “2-Way” that Kawhi wore when he sunk the “Four Bounces” shot.
From a performance standpoint, the KAWHI aims to blend power and versatility in equal measures. FuelCell midsoles offer energy return and support, with a full-foot midsole plate adding responsiveness. Finally, uppers use a new Kinetic Stitch technology, a “data-driven thread application” for personalized lockdown. Accompanying the KAWHI is a similarly-colored take on the popular 850 lifestyle silhouette, a special pair of slides and a full apparel collection of tracksuits, t-shirts and shorts, all with special branding.
The New Balance KAWHI “Four Bounces,” 850, slides and apparel will all release via the New Balance webstore and retailers like Foot Locker on August 20. Prices range from $30-$160 USD.
For more NB news, check out DIME‘s upcoming 860 collaborations.
