John Kim 
Last week, Nike officially unveiled the Nike KD 7 with a live webcast being broadcast to all inquiring minds. The response to the sneaker was immediately positive, and with five colorways already being unveiled with full release info, this sneaker is definitely poised to be the season of KD. While the USA colorway released last week, the first high-energy offering is this “35k Degrees” colorway, anchored by a vibrant Bright Mango and accented with Grey and Volt around the shoe. Before the sneakers officially hit stores, let’s take a closer look at the fine details of the new KD 7 silhouette.
The are a number of significant advancements made to the KD 7 that makes the shoe unlike any of its predecessors. You won’t see Hyperfuse material on here, but instead a combination of breathable mesh and Hyperposite for one of the most unique upper constructions we’ve seen from Nike. Various other elements on this breakthrough design, like visible Zoom, an articulated midfoot shank, and Dynamic Flywire, make the seventh KD signature model a big player for the Summer-time basketball scene. Check out our breakdown of the KD 7 details and stay tuned for the latest on Durant’s new kicks.
The Nike KD 7 “35k Degrees” will launch at select Nike Basketball retailers on July 12th.
DYNAMIC FLYWIRE + MESH
Making a swift departure from the Hyperfuse material used in earlier KD models, Leo Chang opts for a new breathable mesh at the fore-foot for maximum ventilation and flexible fit. The inclusion of Dynamic Flywire as the underlay provides increased support that moves with KD’s foot.
HYPERPOSITE
For years, Kevin Durant has asked for a Posite material on his signature shoes as a tribute to the DMV’s love for that particular category of the brand. Nike answers his call by applying Hyperposite material on the heel, which allows for enhanced durability and support.
180-DEGREE VISIBLE ZOOM
Zoom Air has been the go-to source for cushioning across the KD line. In 2013, Nike first experimented with a full-length visible Zoom Air unit built specifically for KD, and for the KD 7, the same idea returns as a 180-degree unit acts as the primary source of support in the midsole.
ARTICULATED MIDFOOT SHANK
Kevin Durant needs as much support for his midfoot as he can get. His size 17s leaves a lot of ground to cover, and so this new midfoot shank plate, which mimics the bones of his feet, provides natural support and responsiveness to help propel KD’s game.
MIDFOOT STRAP
The strap isn’t new to the KD series, but it hasn’t seen the light of day since the KD 4. Nike fashions the KD 7 with a new strap that actually features an elastic, stretchy component on the medial side to allow for a custom fit. The new logo is also features prominently on the strap, with Durant’s logo number of 35 encasing the numeral 7 at the center.
OUTSOLE TRACTION
The solid rubber outsole is a combination of a pressure map of KD’s feet as well as a map of Maryland. Flex grooves promote natural movement of the foot as well.
FAMILY
KD’s sneakers have served as a canvas for paying tribute to his loved ones. On the inner face of the strap, the names of Wanda (mother), Barbara (grandmother), Wayne (father), and Tony (Brother) are listed at the base.
