There are 12 minutes remaining on the clock. The fourth quarter – where players prove their worth and cement their legacy as the most elite in the game. Miami HEAT guard Dwyane Wade has proven his ability to rise to the occasion. This unique and rare trait served as the inspiration for his newest signature shoe, the WADE 4.

“Dwyane Wade’s fourth quarter play served as inspiration for the design of WADE 4, but we also wanted the shoe’s performance elements to contribute to late game success as well,” said Duane Lawrence, Converse Designer. “This isn’t only the lightest WADE shoe ever, but the Suspend Technology in place also helps support his aggressive style of play and provides cushioning to minimize impact forces.”

More photos below…

“I’ve always taken an aggressive approach with my game in the fourth quarter and when I step on the court I believe my drive can help myself and my teammates overcome any deficit,” said Wade. “The WADE 4 is the lightest of my signatures shoes yet, which helps keep me agile and explosive as the clock winds down.”

The WADE 4’s design pays homage to Wade’s ability to escalate his game to the next level in the final quarter of play. The tread of the shoe represents the last 12 minutes of the game. On the bottom of the shoe, from heel to toe, 12 red chevrons mark the amount of time remaining in the game and decrease in size. In the same direction, the treads in between the 12 chevrons represent Wade’s intensity, and increase in size as time winds down.

Weighing in as the lightest WADE signature shoe to date at 14 ounces, the WADE 4 also provides advanced support and breathability. It features new Suspend Technology in a cushioned shelf that rests over the hollowed heel on top of a layer of foam. Upon impact, the shelf displaces to create a desirable “trampoline” effect that helps to minimize impact forces. The WADE 4 is a truly breathable shoe, with open ventilation on the lateral and medial sides of the shoe for maximum airflow. The thin, inner booty sock has a fit system, which promotes lock down, while cushioning the ankle and allowing flexibility.

Signature details on the shoe reflect the most important things in Wade’s life, which he can view when lacing up before each game. On the inside of each tongue are his sons’ names, Zion and Zaire. One lace has the date, 06/20, and the other reads 2006, reminding Wade of the date he led the Miami HEAT to their first NBA Championship and was named 2006 NBA Finals MVP. The front of the tongue boasts six bold stripes on the left shoe and four on the right, a nod to Wade’s height. Finally, the WADE logo and his number “3” are on the back of the shoe.

The Converse WADE 4 will roll out in three colorways throughout the 2008-2009 NBA season with the retail at  $90.

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