James Harden made the most of last night’s game against the New York Knicks, which marked both his debut playing for the Los Angeles Clippers and of the Adidas Harden Vol. 8.
Like the other signature sneakers that have been trotted out for this NBA season, Harden’s latest is a bit of an oddball. A massive oblong ring cage forms the profile as it wraps around the midsole and upper. The rest of the sneaker is relatively simple with its construction and includes a sock-like knit collar. Three vertical stripes on the heel form the only overt branding, leaving the focus on the shoe’s dynamic shape.
Adidas is still keeping it mum on details for the Harden Vol. 8 and says it will formally announce the shoe in February. That leaves a long time to find out about precisely what materials it makes use of and what technology is in play for the futuristic-looking sneaker.
The Adidas signature basketball lineup for this year shares DNA as Anthony Edward’s upcoming AE 1 and Trae Young’s Trae 3 also feature round, sculpted lines that see the upper appear subsumed. All three have also seen at least one colorway pairing black with neon hued overlays. And before we even hear more about the Harden Vol. 8, we’re still waiting for the AE 1’s full rollout in December.
Stay tuned for more updates on the Adidas Harden Vol. 8 and expect to say many more colorways on-court before the full reveal in February. Chances are, Adidas will time the launch to coincide with the NBA All-Star Game.
Ian Servantes is a Senior Trending News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
