
The Next 10 Signature Sports Shoes We Can't Wait to Cop
This is a great time for sneakerheads. Between holiday Jordan Brand releases and signature shoes, the selection is unmatched.
Sticking with that signature kicks theme, we're going to explore 10 that we can't wait to get our hands on. Some are well-known, some are slept-on, and one in particular hasn't even been imagined yet.
Let's break down and examine the next 10 signature sports shoes we can't wait to cop.
Jordan Brand: CP3.IX
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Jordan Brand's CP3.IX is a shoe we've already talked extensively about. Truth be told, Chris Paul's latest signature model is a tremendous upgrade from previous versions.
A secure fit forced into a low-top silhouette is a winning combination. There's no fear of these kicks being too bulky or weighted.
Past CP3 models haven't been visual masterpieces. Essentially, the casual side of the conversation was delayed because these kicks were strictly meant for putting in work on the courts.
The CP3.IX changes that narrative.
The shoes are in stores now, but Jordan Brand will be dressing it up in extensive color patterns in the coming months. If you haven't already, get your hands on a pair.
Nike: Kyrie 2
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We loved Kyrie Irving's first shoe. Without a question, it was easily one of Nike's freshest signature models.
Another cool thing about the Kyrie 1 was the price point. It's not some huge secret that kicks—especially athletic ones—are super expensive. Irving's first shoe came in a lot lower than a lot of other sneakers.
It's unclear if the second sneaker will stay along those lines, but according to Sneaker Bar Detroit, the tag is currently set for $125.
From what we've seen so far, the Kyrie 2 is a bolder version of the original concept. The sketch featured in the Sneaker Bar Detroit article reminds us of an old-school, Gary Payton pair of sneakers, except with a modern twist.
Exciting times are around the corner. In fact, the Kyrie 2 should be dropping around the holidays. Make sure to get your wallets and wish lists ready.
Nike: Air Trainer Cruz
3 of 10More NFL players should have their own signature sneakers. We have to stop putting limitations on who gets to create their own models for consumers to enjoy.
Nike's deal with New York Giants wide receiver Victor Cruz is a step in the right direction.
When he's healthy, Cruz is a fantastic pass-catcher—one of the best slot receivers in the game. Off the field, he also happens to be a style icon. He's created a fashion wave that has given him the right to create his own signature sneaker.
The Air Trainer Cruz hasn't officially been released, but the images we've seen have been outstanding. It's everything you'd imagine from a guy like Cruz.
Buttery, diverse colorways, a traditional silhouette and enough flair to make yourself stand out in a crowd is all you need to know about the Air Trainer Cruz. Hype doesn't get any realer than these grails.
Adidas: D Rose 6
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Adidas' benchmark launch this fall has to be the D Rose 6. Since joining Adidas, Rose and the brand have churned out a ton of great footwear-based content.
The introduction of Boost technology into the soles of the D Rose model last season was a wonderful touch. If you've read any of my stuff prior to this piece, you'll know how important the inclusion of Boost technology has been to the rise of Adidas.
The D Rose 6 uses Boost to enhance a unique structure. Straps laced around the ankle created an interesting identity for this particular model.
Dropping October 15, you better believe that the D Rose is going to be a sneaker you have to play ball in.
Nike: LeBron 13
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Nike's 13th installment of its shoe line with LeBron James has us excited.
Out of the gate, the LeBron 13s are ultra-aggressive. The silhouette bares a familiar feel to past ones in certain areas. Nike has carried over LeBron's signature clear sole with pads of color to the new shoe.
The differences start with a sock-liner installation. Though the LeBron 12s were comfortable, they didn't have a secure fit around the foot. The 13s change all of that.
Another sticking point is this sneaker could be the lightest LeBron model to come around in a long time. You can really feel a difference when they're strapped to your feet.
Changes to the core of this shoe make the LeBron 13s a must-cop sneaker for the fall. In terms of hoops or casual wear, the attention to detail on these kicks is noticeable.
Under Armour: Curry 2
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Under Armour's vision for Stephen Curry's initial signature shoe was exciting. It took one of the top apparel companies in the world into a legitimate sneaker contender.
With pressure to match the performance and styling of the first edition, Under Armour has announced plans for the Curry 2.
At first glance, this shoe dazzles. Effervescent colors ignite the mid sole and base of the Curry 2. Of course, we can't talk about this sneaker without discussing the "Charged Cushioning" system. It's a comfortable, supportive feature that reduces the rigors of the court and saves ankles in the process.
Despite not being deemed a household name by the horde of sneakerheads running around out there, Under Armour's Curry 2 is a signature sneaker we're very much looking forward to.
Jordan Brand: Melo M12
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Jordan Brand's longtime stablemate, Carmelo Anthony, has done a lot for the company in terms of his signature shoes.
Each year, we get a brand new pair of Melo kicks to try out and hoop in. Historically speaking, they've always been great shoes on a performance level. Visually speaking, they don't work as streetwear.
There hasn't been an official release for the M12—Anthony's latest shoe—yet, but it's hard to imagine that trend will change. That isn't a reason not to enjoy the kicks; it's just something consumers have to deal with.
On a purely performance scale, the M12s should excite you. Jordan Brand does a marvelous job adding the latest and greatest technology into each Melo model to protect people who wear them.
Despite the New York Knicks' struggles and turmoil, Anthony's kicks need to be here. In a basketball capacity, the stuff that's come from Jordan Brand and Melo's partnership can't be brushed to the side any longer.
Adidas: D Lillard 2
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Can we clap it up for Adidas, please? The recent winner of the James Harden sweepstakes went on a frenzy last year when it rewarded Portland Trail Blazers guard Damian Lillard with his own kicks.
The D Lillard 1 was a cool shoe. It carried slight vibes of the Air Jordan III while not compromising on the originality front.
The D Lillard 1 wasn't always a secure shoe. It ran big, and that caused a lot of on-foot confusion in the basketball department. Another missing element was the use of Boost technology.
Brandon Richard of Sole Collector wrote about that issue, explaining it was done to keep the price point low. Richard also notes that the D Lillard 2 could finally make the jump, infusing Boost into the soles.
The D Lillard 2 is featured here because it's a transitional sneaker for one of the game's best players. Between the rumored induction of Boost technology and the growth from his first pair of kicks, it's going to be tough to sleep on the D Lillard 2.
Air Jordan XXX
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There's been no confirmation whatsoever from the folks over at Jordan Brand, but you can expect the Air Jordan XXX is coming.
Even without images or news, the XXX needs to be here. It's the 30th edition of Michael Jordan's signature sneaker. That automatically makes it an essential component of sneaker history.
Based on how dope the Air Jordan XX9 model was, you have to believe Jordan Brand is going to make the XXX a robust edition to the collection. Patrick Johnson of Sneaker News has shared rumors about its appearance, but nothing concrete has actually surfaced.
No matter how it looks, it's going to be great to see what Jordan Brand has in store for us when the shoe drops later this year.
Adidas: James Harden's Shoe
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We might have to wait a while before we get to see James Harden's first signature shoe with Adidas.
Harden became the latest face of the company over the summer after he inked a $200 million deal, per ESPN's Darren Rovell. That deal includes his own signature sneaker, according to Jesus Gomez of SB Nation. That's important to note because Harden left Nike and in the process turned the spotlight onto Adidas.
Curious minds will wonder if Harden will follow the Adidas blueprint as of late. That means Boost technology, multiple colorways and a more athletic look rather than going in a casual direction.
Of all the Adidas releases, Harden's is by far the one we have to see in person. Considering he's a high-profile name, the entire landscape of Adidas sneakers could change in a hurry.
All Nike/Jordan product information via News.Nike.com, unless noted otherwise. All Adidas information via News.Adidas.com, unless noted otherwise.




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