What Nike is proclaiming Kevin Durant’s “most transformable shoe”, today welcomes the official unveiling of the Nike KD VI (6).
Precision meets performance as Nike introduces the KD VI, Kevin Durant’s sixth signature shoe. Designed for Durant’s evolved style of play, the shoe’s striking silhouette combines with technical innovations to complement Durant’s controlled footwork.
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DESIGN INSPIRATION
As designer Leo Chang began the process of designing the KD VI 18 months ago, he found inspiration in the precision craftsmanship of a wristwatch. Like a premium watch, which is meticulously crafted, the KD VI features fine-tuned details that include:
- Ultra-thin two layer upper with Flywire for lockdown support
- An optical illusion logo on the tongue revealing “35” and “6” in negative space
- Radial brushed texture marks on the midsole, KD logo and Nike Swoosh
- A multi-layered hexagon traction pattern
Similar to Durant’s controlled fluidity on the court, a watch operates with precise movements. Small nuances in Durant’s style of play and the KD VI design mirror the micro details of a wristwatch. Classic minimalism suggests less is sometimes more.
“When Kevin and I first discussed his sixth shoe we wanted to create a simplified design that was bold, beautiful and told a story,” said Chang, Nike Basketball Footwear Design Director.
PERFORMANCE INNOVATION
High-speed lateral footwork is critical to sports such as tennis and soccer and corresponding footwear is designed to support this skill-set. Why not basketball? In analyzing Durant’s need for quickness on the court, Chang landed on a low-profile design that is light in weight and tight to the foot.
The KD VI features six key performance benefits:
- New tongue construction for superior fit
- Ultra-thin two-layer upper with Flywire for lockdown support
- Hyperfuse construction for comfort and breathability
- Nike Zoom in the forefoot for responsive cushioning
- Max Air unit in the heel for maximum impact protection
- Data-informed traction pattern for non-slip control
“As I look to evolve my game, my shoe plays a big role,” said Durant. “The KD VI has the low and light feel that Leo and I concepted from the start and I’m excited to get out and play in it next season.”
SOLE STORY
The six-sided hexagonal pattern creates the traction pattern of the KD VI, paying homage to the fact that this is Durant’s sixth shoe. A close look at the shoe’s outsole reveals multi-hexagonal layers. This intricate pattern is designed around the imprint, or pressure map, taken from Durant’s foot as it was scientifically analyzed at the Nike Sports Research Lab.
MADE IN MARYLAND
Durant was born and raised in Seat Pleasant, Md., just outside of Washington, D.C. He honed his game after spending countless hours at the Seat Pleasant Activity Center, his home away from home. The rec center’s trademark teal and yellow colors, spotted on the center’s doormat by Chang on his first trip to Seat Pleasant in 2008, inspired the lead KD VI colorway launching globally July 3.
Upcoming KD VI colorways
KD VI D.C. Preheat: The upper features a map of Washington, D.C., overlayed with a white graphic pattern inspired by machining lines of a wristwatch, all in a bold, bright color pattern. This shoe pays tribute to Durant’s hometown roots. Launch: June 29.
KD VI Meteorology: If Durant was not playing basketball, his dream occupation would be tracking weather as a meteorologist. Atomic red, olive and black are featured in a custom graphic mimicking Doppler radar mapping. Launch: Aug. 3.
KD VI NYC 66: When Durant scorched the Harlem blacktop and scored 66 points on Aug. 2, 2011, the world took notice. Despite the lockout, basketball didn’t stop for a 22-year-old Durant who’d play anyone at anytime. Launch: Aug. 17.
KD VI Bamboo: The power of nature and patience comes to life in Chinese bamboo. Typically after four consecutive years of delicate care, bamboo undergoes a transformation in its fifth year. This story parallels the growth of Durant’s game this past season, his fifth in the league. This special green shoe debuts during a summer when Durant will visit China. Launch: Sept. 14.
For more information on the above KD VI colorways follow Durant on Twitter (@KDTrey5), Instagram (easymoneysniper) and Vine.
via Nike