The NBA Playoffs are Here and So Are Some Fresh Kicks
The NBA postseason is upon us and the excitement is palpable as four first round playoff series have been announced, along with four play-in tournament matchups. But that’s not the only lineup that’s been prepared for this week – a new collection of footwear drops is also set to hit the market, featuring big names like Jordan Brand, adidas, New Balance, Vans, Converse, Crocs, Nike, and ASICS. But before we dive into the latest sneaker releases, let’s take a look back at the top footwear headlines from the past week.
We took a trip to Mammoth, California to test out Reese Cooper’s five-shoe UGG collaboration and chat with the American designer. And in other news, Nike Basketball officially unveiled Devin Booker’s new collection in partnership with Chevrolet, while also giving us a sneak peek at the “Black Croc” and “White Croc” colorways of the NIGO x Nike Air Force 3. The Swoosh is also gearing up for the release of the highly anticipated Nike LeBron 21 Prime ’96 “Varsity Red,” a fusion of King James’ signature shoe and Coach Prime’s iconic style.
Travis Scott had a big week for himself, headlining Coachella and showing off his upcoming fragment design x Air Jordan 1 Low OG collab while watching the Los Angeles Clippers. The Air Jordan 4 also made waves with a first look at this year’s “Black Cat” pair and detailed presentations of PEs for San Diego State University and Marquette University. And in other industry news, JiyongKim teamed up with Clarks to create a new project featuring the brand’s signature sun-bleaching technique on the Wallabee and Desert Trek models. Meanwhile, ASICS quietly dropped the GEL-SEKIRAN in Australia, a new model that combines three retro runners.
The week was rounded out by LaMelo Ball and PUMA Hoops, who introduced the MB.04 Low in its debut “Alien Skin” colorway. Now that you’re caught up on the latest and greatest from the footwear industry, let’s take a look at the top ten sneaker releases you should have on your radar this week, starting with two exciting restocks from Jordan Brand. And don’t forget to check out HBX for styles that are available now.
A Ma Maniére x Air Jordan 3 “For The Love”
Release Date: April 15
Release Price: $225 USD
Where to Buy: SNKRS
Why You Should Cop: A Ma Maniére’s latest Nike collection dropped a few weeks ago, featuring three shoes including a new take on the Air Jordan 3. This “For The Love” colorway features a white leather upper with dark gray suede mudguards and “Diffused Blue” detailing on the midsole and heel’s Nike Air branding. The shoe also boasts co-branding on the tongue, sockliner, and special shoe box.
adidas Gazelle Indoor Made in Italy “Brown”
Release Date: April 15
Release Price: $350 USD
Where to Buy: adidas
Why You Should Cop: adidas has been putting a focus on their Made in Italy line, and this Gazelle Indoor is the latest addition. The shoe features a premium brown leather upper with gold foil branding and a gum rubber outsole. Made in Italy, this shoe is a must-have for any sneaker collector.
