1. Blog Home
  2. Sports Lifestyle
History of the Nike KD 17 Signature Basketball Shoe

Sports Lifestyle

History of the Nike KD 17 Signature Basketball Shoe

Feb 20, 2025

He’s the Slim Reaper, tall and slender while artfully reaping victories on the hardwood. His fans recognize his initials, “KD.” And regardless of his moniker du jour, Kevin Durant is a tour-de-force both on the court and in the sneaker game. 

The Phoenix Suns star has been in the NBA for 18 seasons as of 2025, and his signature sneaker collab with the Swoosh has also enjoyed popularity since 2008. Here’s an inside look at the evolution of the Nike KD lineup and what makes the latest silhouette, the Nike KD 17, so great.

Nike KD 17 Sunrise

Nike KD 17 Facts & Features

The initial Nike KD 17 release date was May 17, 2024, with the “Sunrise” colorway. The Nike Basketball shoe features a combination of synthetic leather in the heel and mesh in the mid and forefoot, providing flexibility, breathability and minimal break-in time. A TPU wrap on both sides, inspired by the Nike Air Max Plus, enhances lateral containment. The shoe’s Cushlon midsole is reminiscent of the contoured comfort of Nike’s all-but-forgotten running shoe, the Air Talaria. A prominent forefoot Air Zoom unit offers responsive cushioning, aiding quick movements and first steps, smoothed out by a thick foam midsole. The outsole features a topographical map-like pattern with contoured ridges, delivering multi-directional traction for various on-court movements. And a supportive arch plate enhances stability during play.

Nike KD 17 Easy Money

Notable KD 17 Basketball Shoe Colorways

Each color story in the KD 17 lineup is personal for Durant. Here are a few of the best colorways to date: 

  • The men’s Nike KD 17 “Sunrise” draws inspiration from the 1998 Air Max Plus, the aesthetics of the NBA Jam video game and the Arizona sunrise for a striking look. 
  • With its shades of pink, the Nike KD 17 “Aunt Pearl” edition honors Kevin Durant's late aunt. Released on November 15, 2024, this version symbolizes the fight against breast cancer and celebrates his aunt’s memory.
  • The shades of blue, black and white, the “Glacial Rift” rendition pays tribute to the Orlando Magic 

The “Producer Pack” features a trio of colorways, including the  Nike KD 17 “Metro Boomin’,” “Bink!” and “The Alchemist.” Each shoe in this pack reflects the individual style of the collaborator, blending musical influence with basketball performance.

Shop Hibbett for more dynamic colorways packed into an already-dynamic basketball sneaker. We’ve also got tips for getting the best basketball shoe for your game, as well as all the equipment, apparel and accessories for buzzer-beating success.

Related Categories

Shop the Story

You Might Also Like to Read

Recently Viewed

View All Articles