John Kim 
Li-Ning made its American debut this past February by opening up its first retail space on American soil and presenting Baron Davis as its premier endorsee. Some of you may believe there might not be enough room for another brand to rise up but this first look at the upcoming Li-Ning F2 Liftoff might change your mind. The design of the shoe features a contemporary basketball-shoe constructing, with a foam-based upper material called “Foam Frame”, a heel-cup for stability, and herringbone traction, but the F2 Liftoff and its friendly $65 price-tag is worth a thorough inspection.
The Foam Frame upper features sloping lines of indents in the material, accomplishing a sleek look and avoiding a bulky appearance. The sturdy construction of the heel-cup should prevent slippage, and the high cut of the ankle could provide Hyperdunk-like ankle support. The traction pattern is very is far from plain, using a zig-zag pattern (Dennis Rodman’s N-Destrukt’s ring a bell?) as well as the brand’s namesake in chinese stamped proudly on pivot-point of the sole. Just a few days ago, Li-Ning announced its partnership with Champs Sporting Goods, which will make Li-Ning products available at Champs in-store on the West coast and online. Continue reading for a detailed look at this upcoming shoe and let us know if you’d add these to your basketball-shoe repertoire. via CK.
