Brendan Dunne 
The first month of the year is almost in the books, and if that was any indication, 2014 could shape into one of the most interesting years for sneakers. Right before we head into the important month of February, we here at Sneaker News want to take a look back at the month that was and pinpoint ten of the more momentous events that took place in the world of footwear this month – things that will certainly develop as we head into the new month of non-stop sneaker updates and more.
Remember, these ten items that we chose here will have lasting effects for several weeks to come, and you’d be wise to keep these topics in mind if you want to be the most knowledgeable you can be. Everything from Jordan (the Championship Cigars, the Jordan Future), Nike Basketball (LeBrons and Kobes, to be specific), adidas (Stan Smith galore, ZX Flux bangers), and more are all included here, so flip through for the recap so you can be sharp as can be when these stories continue to develop in 2014!
Jordan Brand Celebrates Michael’s First NBA Championship
The Air Jordan 6 possesses subplots aplenty, and the most recognized one is without question Jordan’s first NBA Title. The brand gives that accomplishment a nod with the Air Jordan 6 “Championship Cigar”, which is poised for a Summer 2014 release.
Read More: Air Jordan 6 “Championship Cigar”
New Nike Kobe 9 Elite Releases Unveiled
An exclusive Kobe event in NYC was the spot where Nike really pulled the curtain of Bryant’s latest signature shoe. On display were three new March releases along with some exclusives that went up for raffle at 21 Mercer and DSM NY.
Read More: Nike Kobe 9 Elite
“Hot Lava” Air Tech Challenge 2 Erupts
At long last the Nike Air Tech Challenge 2 came back around in the all important “Hot Lava” colorway. And yes they flew off shelves pretty quickly, but there’s plenty more coming from this model this year so you needn’t worry.
Read More: Nike Air Tech Challenge 2
adidas Originals Celebrates All-Things Stan Smith
Stan Smith is back and he’s everywhere. First adidas brought the sneaker back in a handful of classic colorways, then it gave them a deluxe treatment via the Consortium line. Oh, and did we mention they let you “Stan yourself” and create your own Smith style logo?
Read More: adidas Originals Stan Smith
The Jordan 11 Preps for the Future
Jordan Brand shocked the sneaker world with this one. The Jordan Future builds upon the sole of the Air Jordan 11 while utilizing Nike’s Woven technology on the upper. Watch for more when the sneakers make their debut in March.
Read More: Jordan Future
The LeBron 11 Goes Elite and EXT
It was only a matter of time before LeBron’s latest started suiting up for the post-season. This month featured the first glimpse at the LeBron 11 Elite as well as the off-court special the LeBron 11 EXT.
Read More: LeBron 11 Elite/LeBron 11 EXT
Shawn Kemp’s Reebok Kamikaze Returns
Reebok turned the clock back to 1994 with the retro release of the first Reebok Kamikaze model. Of course it’s release wouldn’t be right without the proper Seattle Sonics look. Get ready to see a lot more of this shoe in 2014.
Read More: Reebok Kamikaze 1
The Oregon Ducks Get More PE Air Jordans
The retro goodies just don’t stop for Eugene’s favorite team. Another Air Jordan 5 surfaced this month, proving that Uncle Phil’s home squad will never want for exclusives.
Read More: Air Jordan 5 “JumpDucks”
Nike Sportswear Taps Givenchy designer Riccardo Tisci
NSW proved that they can go super high-end with their collabs by bringing Riccardo Tisci of Givenchy fame on board. So far we’ve seen a gang of Air Force 1s from the collection but we’re hoping for more on both the footwear and apparel side.
Read More: Riccardo Tisci x Nike Air Force 1 RT Collection
The Renewal of the adidas ZX Series
The Three Stripes’ iconic ZX lineup is coming back like you’ve never seen it before. The brand new adidas originals ZX Flux promises to be one of the most exciting things to come from the brand this year thanks to the minimalist build that’s perfect for graphic applications.
Read More: adidas Originals ZX Flux
