Nike Zoom LeBron 5: 2007
This fifth iteration plays off the LeBron 4’s blocky silhouette and integrates some of James’ story into the sneaker. As a kid, he honed his craft using a milk crate as a basketball hoop, and the removable midfoot strap imitates those early beginnings. Diagonal overlays and stitching make this Nike LeBron sneaker stand out, while the Phyposite skeleton gives the LeBron 5 its locked-down feel. This shoe also keeps the full-length Zoom Air cushioning, stacking it at the heel for extra liftoff. Maps inset into the outsole pay tribute to LeBron’s hometown of Akron, while a regal insignia sits on the tongue.
Nike Zoom LeBron 6: 2008
After several chunky editions, we begin to see a more refined, streetwear-like shape emerge with the LeBron 6. The lightest LeBron shoe since the Generation, the 6 loses its internal cage, swapping it out with a Dynamic Fit sockliner for a more flexible feel. Full-length, double-stacked Zoom Air cushions the foot, while a carbon fiber heel piece keeps the foot firmly in place. Crown branding appears throughout the shoe.
Nike Air Max LeBron 7: 2009
This was the year Nike designer Jason Petrie began collaborating on the traditional LeBron Nike sneaker line. He started working with LeBron back in 2005 to bring the King’s Soldier line to life. Rather than a Zoom Air unit, a visible, 360-degree Air Max unit runs the length of the shoe. Flywire was used in the upper’s construction, along with transparent TPU overlays with mesh underneath. Thin leather outlines much of the shoe, too, adding stability.