Nike KD1 Kevin Durant
Nike KD1 Kevin Durant

LOS ANGELES, Feb 26, 2009 / FW/ — Why should Milan have all the fun with the opening of the Dirk Bikkembergs’ store where 100 football players will grace the occasion? We have the NBA, and Nike unveiled today the ‘KD1’, the first signature shoe of the newest basketball star Kevin Durant.

The reigning NBA Rookie of the Year, Kevin Durant showcases the next generation of footwear with the launch of KD1. Inspired by Durant’s personal journey to reach NBA stardom, the shoe seamlessly integrates superior performance with personal design touches.

Durant’s relentless work ethic is well noted and fundamental to the KD1 design. From the age of nine he has been a “gym rat” through and through, and the KD1 includes design details that reflect Durant’s determination. His strong work ethic has carried him from his amateur basketball playing days to life now in the league.

Nike designers met with Durant to get to know his personality and sources of inspiration. The KD1 has many storytelling elements including:

A postage stamp inspired design on the left tongue because Durant’s mother worked at the post office; a security badge is included on the right tongue for his father who worked as a security officer. Symbols and numbers on the left outsole represent locations meaningful to Durant.

Elements that represent the hard-work ethic that he puts into his game, such as “1 hr defense drills, 1000 toe raises, grandma brings dinner to the gym” and “I never quit”

The KD1 shoe is a lightweight, well-cushioned and sleek men’s basketball shoe. Durant plays small forward and needs a lightweight shoe that can keep up with his quick sprints down the court. KD1 has a Nike Zoom unit and a lightweight injection phylon midsole for exceptional cushioning. It’s also equipped with plenty of flex grooves on the outsole that forwards need for multidirectional cuts.

The KD1 is now available in the United States at Nike.com, Hibbett Sporting Goods, Champs, Eastbay.com, Finish Line, The Sports Authority and Foot Locker. The suggested retail price is $88.

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