Ranking the top 5 Kevin Durant shoes under his Nike deal
Brooklyn Nets superstar forward Kevin Durant has been endorsed by Nike since he stepped foot in the NBA. Durant first signed with Nike in 2007 as a rookie and later got his first signature shoe a year later in 2008.
Nike has been producing new models of “KD” shoes ever since. On that note, here are five of the highest-rated KD signature shoe models so far based on common reviews.
5. Nike KD 9
Kevin Durant's "Nike KD 9" were seen as a big step up from its predecessors. Reviewers noted the shoe's good traction and extremely comfortable cushioning. However, some have said that they have maybe a little too much cushioning for a basketball shoe.
Other downsides include the shoe's design being difficult to get into and the support features being minimal. But overall, they are considered very good performance sneakers that work for all types of basketball players.
4. Nike KD 12
Kevin Durant's "Nike KD 12" are also known for being a big step up from the models that came before it. The main reason for this is the full-length Zoom strobel beneath the feet, which provides a lot of response and bounce.
However, as for the downsides, the cushioning has divided reviewers, with some loving it and others finding it too inconsistent on dustier courts. Some have also complained about the materials looking cheap. However, the performance of the flywire upper is considered top-notch.
KD 12s usually fit most basketball players as they aren't as long and narrow as most KD models.
3. Nike KD 13
Kevin Durant's "Nike KD 13" are also best known for their full-length Zoom strobel, which provides elite cushioning. It also has a traction pattern that is effective when moving in all directions. This traction is also strong enough to be effective outdoors.
In addition, the KD 13's materials are very lightweight and perform well. The shoe's support comes from wide base and is a good fit.
As for the downsides, the shoe reportedly doesn't provide as much lockdown as previous KD models.
Similar to many previous KD models, the KD 13 fits very comfortably on people who have regular or narrow feet. However, people with wider-sized feet usually have to choose a bigger size. Some have even been forced to choose a different shoe model entirely.
2. Nike KD 14
As for Kevin Durant's "Nike KD 14," some reviewers have said the traction took a little time to break in. The consensus, however, is that they provide a strong grip on clean courts. KD 14s also works pretty well on dusty courts.
The zoom strobel and cushion in the sole provide a mix of comfort, protection and responsiveness. Some say it is the softest KD shoe model yet.
As for the downside, the materials feel a little cheap. But this is outweighed by their comfortability. This, combined with the wide base and plastic enforcement on the side, provides a lot of support.
The KD 14s are also reportedly less narrow than previous KD models and fit a variety of foot sizes.
1. Nike KD 15
Kevin Durant’s newest shoe model, the "Nike KD 15" are popular due to their traction, which works on any type of court. Reviewers have also said that the cushioning offers the ability for the wearer to feel the court. The shoes also allow responsiveness and bounciness, while offering strong protection.
KD 15s are also made of materials that are comfortable and conform to your feet. This allows them to fit a bit better than all previous KD models, including on various foot shapes.
As far as the downside, some reviewers say they have experienced some heel slippage or lack of security around their heel. However, the Nike KD 15 is still considered one of the best basketball performance shoes available.