Jordan Eclipse - Jordan Brands New Shoe for Everyday Use

Just launched in select retailers this past April 1st, is the the newest shoe designed by the Jordan Brand: the Jordan Eclipse. The new Jordan Eclipse is an off-court shoe featuring forward thinking sportswear designs for everyday use. Just in time for summer, these lightweight shoes are perfect for hot, sunny days.

The Jordan Eclipse is the latest footwear offering to take cues from past iconic Jordan basketball shoe models, featuring tooling and the iconic Jumpman logo on the heel, drawing directly from the Air Jordan 3. The low top Eclipse has deconstructed textile upper offering lightweight breathability, while the Neoprene tongue provides a moldable fit. The Jordan Eclipse also sits on a low profile injected midsole that doubles as the outsole and holds an encapsulated Zoom Air component in the heel for optimal cushioning and support. The outsole provides great traction on a variety of surfaces with a herringbone pattern.

The Jordan Eclipse is now available at Nike and select retailers with a MSRP of $110. Currently 4 colorways are available with new colorways scheduled for release throughout the year so stay tuned.

Under Armour Curry One

This year marks the debut of Golden State Warriors point guard, Stephen Curry's first signature shoe, the Curry One from Under Armour. As Under Armour continues to expand and grow in its basketball offerings, competing with stalwarts like Nike and Adidas, the signing of Steph Curry only made sense. Both with a similar history as the underdog or upstart that had to prove their own worth, Under Armour and Curry have officially arrived as established household names. What better way to achieve such recognition then to do it together as brand and player support one another to mutual success.

Inspired by Steph's journey from an unheralded high school player to indisputable NBA superstar, the Curry One commemorates the personal moments that have defined Curry's path to stardom. The shoe’s precise and sharp design reflect Steph's unflappable on court demeanor and electrifying style of play. The Curry One features technology engineered for the games most unguardable player with performance benefits that Curry's game demands. The Curry One is available in 7 different color ways with each one telling it's own unique story about Steph's life on and off the court.

CHARGED BY BELIEF.
Stephen Curry’s path wasn’t lined with people saying he was great. He had to rely on the Will, Skill, and Belief inside himself. Grinding every day… refining his game shot after shot after shot.
NOW, HE’S WRITING HIS OWN STORY.

Curry One Technology and Innovation

• Charged Cushioning absorbs impact & converts it into responsive quickness
• AnaFoam upper delivers a body mapped fit, lightweight structure & support
• External heel counter secures the foot & eliminates sliding
• Multi-directional herringbone outsole delivers superior court feel & control
• Midfoot TPU shank wraps under foot for extra lateral stability
• Padded mesh tongue lined with synthetic suede breathes & protects the foot

The Curry One includes signature finishes from Steph himself that truly tell his story through these personal design elements. Each colorway of the Curry One is adorned with the SC30 logo. The duality of this logo represents who Steph is on the court and off. The number 30 runs deep in his family and is a nod to his father, Dell who wore the number during his NBA career. The “Home” and “Away” colorays feature the quote “I CAN DO ALL THINGS” on the inside tongue of the shoes. The lace loop at the bottom of the tongue has “4:13,” representing one of Steph's favorite Bible verses, Philippians 4:13, that reads: “I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” Lace tips on the “Home" and "Away” colorways feature respectively the acronym “MMTB” for “Make My Team Better,” and “LEAD.” These personal touches give an intimate feel to the Curry One and help draw a closer connection to who Stephen Curry is in his Christian faith, son, and leader.

Shoe Anatomy - Shoeology 101

The basic anatomy or make up of a shoe is similar across almost every style of footwear. Whether we are talking about men's dress shoes, women's heels or even casual snearkers, every type of shoe has two major parts. These two parts of a shoe can be broken up into the sole, which makes up the base of the shoe and often includes a heel, and the upper which helps hold the shoe in place on the foot. Refer to the figure below as we take a more in depth look into the make up and anatomy of shoes.

The Sole - bottom of the shoe that makes contact with the ground.

The sole can be considered the "soul" of a shoe, as it is the base and foundation of the shoe and typically determines the style of the shoe. The soles of shoes are made from a variety of different materials including leather, wood, rubber and polyurethane. They can be as simple as a single layer, such as in sandals and slippers or complex with multiple layers as found in most athletic shoes. Shoes with multiple layered soles, usually consist of an insole, midsole and an outsole.

Insole - found inside the shoe, this is the part of the shoe that makes direct contact with the foot. From a structural standpoint, the insole is the part of the sole that attaches to the upper. Shoes will typically have a thin layer of fabric covering the insole called a sock liner or will include a separate footbed for added comfort, cushioning and support.

Midsole - middle of the sole found between the insole and the outsole, the midsole functions as a shock absorber and is typically found in running shoes and other styles of athletic footwear.

Outsole - bottom of the sole that makes direct contact with the ground. Depending on the style of shoes, different materials are used offering different tread and traction.

Heel - bottom rear part of the shoe, offering heel support for the foot. The heel can be high or flat depending on the style and type of footwear and the look that is desired.

The Upper - top portion of the shoe that makes contact with the majority of the foot.

The upper is like the "body" of the shoe that secures the shoe to the foot. This is the part of the shoe with the most decorative elements to give a shoe a specific style and look. The upper of a shoe is connected to the sole by a strip of material stitched between the two, which is known as a welt. Uppers usually have features to adjust and tighten the fit of the shoe with laces which are always accompanied by eyelets, or straps, buckles, velcro, buttons or elastic.

Tongue - piece of the shoe that runs along the upper to make it easier to put on and take off shoes and protect the foot from the different forms of enclosures.

Vamp - front part of the shoe, typically starting behind the toes and extending around the tongue towards the middle of the shoe.

Toebox - often considered part of the vamp, this is the very front area of the shoes covering the toes extending a half inch further back then the longest toe.

Lining - covers the inside of the shoe for a softer and more comfortable feel against the foot.

Quarter - rear and sides of the upper behind the vamp.

Counter - or heel counter serves as a heel reinforcement and counter balance to keep it in place inside the shoes and prevent slippage.

Jordan Classics Remastered

In the spring of 2015 the Jordan Brand will be celebrating its 30th anniversary. Along with the epic milestone, the brand will be remastering the entire retro line of shoes made famous by Mike himself, starting with the Jordan IV, VII, and X. The remastered Jordan Classics will be re-released in a completely different manner with an emphasis on quality construction and materials as well as a focus on producing a product that is more accurate in appearance with the original design.

This announcement has only affirmed the dismay of many collectors and sneaker heads alike, who already questioned the quality of retro releases in the past decade. There have been numerous complaints of the increasingly poor quality of Jordan Brand shoes, along with the continued price increases over the years. Complaints about poor quality and craftsmanship are one thing, but to have a shoe completely fall apart or bottom out altogether is a whole different story. See for yourself as just last year in a Philadelphia 76ers game, Tony Wroten wearing the Air Jordan 10 'Varsity Red' has the sole of the shoes completely come off in the middle of a game.



Perhaps, the remastering of these Jordan Classics will prevent any future mishaps. Along with such major changes in quality will obviously be further price increases, which we have already seen this year in the $190 range. The 10% - 15% price increase doesn't have many people surprised, as the Jordan Brand has already been seen of one driven by hype, supply and demand. Nonetheless, consumers still continue to line up in the mornings or flood the internet on release dates to get their hands on a pair of Jordan Retro Classics.

What do you think of this remastering concept? Is this just another great marketing tactic from Jordan or is this an attempt to right the wrong and address the consumer complaints? Will you be spending another $10 - $20 more for a pair of these classic retros? We'd love to hear from you in the comments below.

For an inside look on the new concept from the Jordan Brand, read the exclusive interview from Sole Collector with Dave Schechter, VP of Jordan Footwear, and Jeff Atienza, Jordan Brand Product Line Manager.

Nike 2015 BHM Collection Cont'd - Part 3

Our final post on the Nike 2015 BHM Collection features some of Nike's most popular men's and women's lifestyle footwear and one release only available through the Nike Soccer App. Nike continues to use it's platform as one of the world's most recognized footwear companies to inspire, recognize and empower people across the world.

Sports remind us what history has long revealed. That courage is contagious. That the actions of a single individual can impact those whose faces they will never see. That a single voice can resound through generations. This month, we honor those who have let their actions and their voices speak. Not only for themselves, but for us all. To the challenges that we face, with the courage, the conscience and the power that resides in each of us.

THE POWER OF ONE

A portion of proceeds from the sale of the Nike 2015 BHM Collection will go to the Ever Higher Fund, which supports organizations that leverage the power of sports to maximize the potential of under served youth. The fund’s mission is to assist communities with knowledge, resources and tools for the next generation of leaders.

Nike Air Force 1 Duckboot BHM - $175, Jan. 29, 2015

Nike Air Max 1 BHM - $125, Jan. 29, 2015

Women’s Nike AF1 Ultra Force BHM - $140, Jan. 29, 2015

Women’s Nike Air Max 1 Ultra BHM - $150, Jan. 29, 2015

Nike Mercurial Superfly BHM FG - $300, Jan. 29, 2015 - Exclusively in the Nike Soccer App

Nike 2015 BHM Collection Cont'd - Part 2

In honor of Black History Month, Nike went all out with their 2015 BHM Collection of basketball shoes. Nike is featuring all four of its signature basketball shoes in the specially designed styles and prints in honor and recognition of the courage, actions and impact of African Americans throughout history.

A portion of all proceeds from the Nike 2015 BHM Collection will be donated to the Ever Higher Fund, to support organizations that leverage the power of sports to maximize the potential of under served youth. Ever Higher Fund’s mission is to assist communities with knowledge, resources and tools for the next generation of leaders.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite BHM - $250, Jan. 19, 2015

The innovative and ultralight Nike Kobe 9 Elite Men's Basketball Shoe moves naturally with your foot while providing the lockdown and responsiveness Kobe demands. A virtually seamless, formfitting Flyknit upper integrates areas of breathability, stretch and support, while super light, super strong Flywire technology cables lock your foot down. The result is a lightweight, locked-in feel unlike any other. The ultra lightweight, springy Lunarlon cushioning delivers soft yet responsive shock absorption from tip off to final buzzer. Made with less outsole rubber than traditional basketball shoes, the Kobe 9 Elite from Nike offers enhanced flexibility yet maintains the traction required for quick cuts and sprints.

Nike Kyrie 1 BHM - $130, Jan. 19, 2015

With advanced traction, zoned support and lightweight cushioning, the Nike Kyrie 1 Men's Basketball Shoe is designed to engage forward motion while keeping a tight grip on the ground, allowing a quick first step. The durable rubber outsole features a modified herringbone pattern that wraps up the sidewalls for maximum traction. Three layers of material are Hyperfused together to produce a nearly seamless upper, creating zones of durability, breathability and support, right where you need them. A Nike Zoom unit in the forefoot provides low profile, responsive cushioning for a quick first step, while lightweight Phylon foam in the heel delivers extra cushioning on impact.

Nike LeBron 12 BHM - $220, Jan. 24, 2015

Previous LeBron shoes have harnessed LeBron's power and now the Nike LeBron 12 Men's Basketball Shoe unleashes his explosiveness. With ultra responsive, ultra flexible cushioning directly underfoot, this is the most dynamic and agile shoe in the LeBron series. Four visible Nike Zoom units in the forefoot deliver ultra responsive cushioning, and a maximum volume Nike Zoom unit in the heel provides excellent impact protection. New Megafuse technology comfortably locks down your foot while letting it move. Plus, super strong, ultralight Flywire cables adjust with your foot's natural motion, creating even more lockdown through the midfoot. Hyperposite wings are fused to the sides of the shoe to provide greater support during sharp cuts. One wing cradles your midfoot while the other cups your heel.

Nike KD7 BHM - $170, Jan. 24, 2015

The Nike KD7 Men's Basketball Shoe is made for the player who excels in the paint and on the perimeter, offering natural motion and cushioned support with a data informed shank and 180° Nike Zoom unit. Flywire cables and a Hyperposite construction work together to stabilize the foot and provide dynamic changes of direction. Flywire design and midfoot strap provide lightweight lockdown. Hybrid design blends flexibility and support to give you speed and strength on every step. Visible Nike Zoom Unit delivers ultra responsive cushioning.

Nike 2015 Black History Month Collection - Part 1

February is designated as Black History Month or National African American History Month in the United States. During this annual celebration the achievements and endeavors of African Americans in United States history are recognized, remembered and honored. This past Monday on January 19th, 2015 we celebrated the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. one of the most recognized leaders of the Civil Rights Movement.

This year, Nike is celebrating Black History Month with a collection of footwear across basketball, running, soccer, skateboarding and football. Nike is honoring six athletes and coaches who have positively impacted sports with their courage and determination. The Black History Month Collection of BHM Collection will recognize Theotis Beasley, Kevin-Prince Boateng, Jerry Rice, Brianna Rollins, C. Vivian Stringer and John Thompson.

Nike will be donating a portion of proceeds from the sale of the 2015 BHM Collection to the Ever Higher Fund, which supports organizations that leverage the power of sports to maximize the potential of underserved youth. The fund’s mission is to assist communities with knowledge, resources and tools for the next generation of leaders.

Because the Nike BHM Collection includes so many different shoes, 13 pairs to be exact, we will be splitting up the collection into separate posts by release date. Below you will find the first launch of shoes that make up the 2015 Nike BHM Collection released on January 17th, 2015.

Air Jordan 1 Retro High BHM - $130, Jan. 17, 2015

Girls Air Jordan 1 Retro High BHM - $120, Jan. 17, 2015

Air Jordan 29 BHM - $225, Jan. 17, 2015

Nike Dunk Low Premium SB BHM - $135, Jan. 17, 2015

Hottest 2014 Nike Holiday Releases

Happy New Year to everyone! Wishing you all nothing but joy, prosperity and good health this year. 2015 is here and 2014 is in the books. Every year the holidays always seem to speed by and are over in a blink of the eye. With all the festivities, feasting, family time and of course shopping, the busyness of the season causes us to miss out on a lot of the latest news and rumblings in the world, especially the shoe world. Being the biggest season for retail, shoe companies have bought in to the trend and love to release special styles around the holidays. Here is a quick look back at some of the HOTTEST 2014 Holiday Releases from Nike.

Air Jordan 6 Retro 'Black/Infrared23' - $185, Nov. 28, 2014

The Nike Air Jordan 6 is back in its original colorway and arrives just in time for the holidays. Capitalizing on the new shopping craze "Black Friday", these shoes were released the morning after Thanksgiving. Jordan’s first championship shoe features a black nubuck upper with eye-catching pops of Infrared on the heel and Jumpman logos. For the first time since the original release, a reflective underlay shines bright on the courts or in the streets. Check out the official release page for the Air Jordan 6 Retro Black/Infrared.

Alejandro's Nike X Doernbecher Air Max Penny - $145, Dec. 6, 2014

Alejandro Muñoz was born with kidneys that have never worked well and eventually will fail. He spent his first 12 days in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Trips to Doernbecher have become a frequent part of his life. At eight you just want to play. Now. Today. It’s pretty simple.

Alejandro’s canvas is the Nike Air Max Penny, inspired by his love of football. Alejandro loves nothing more than hanging out in shorts and tees – and now he has designed one of each. Personal drawings and designs are imprinted all over the reflective base of the Air Max Penny, and his own logo is inspired by his favorite football team: the 49ers. Look closely and you’ll see a self-portrait of Alejandro playing football on the tongue of his very own Nike X Doernbecher Air Max Penny.

Air Jordan 11 Retro 'Legend Blue' - Dec. 20, 2014 - $200

The Air Jordan 11 has become a cult classic and is now a legend. Released back in 1996, the Air Jordan XI is regarded as one of the best Air Jordans ever. This original colorway, known back then as "Columbia", is a mix of patent leather and smooth leather in all white, with a tongue tag, Jumpman logo and translucent outsole tinted in Legend Blue. Tinker made it shine. Mike made it fly. You made it iconic. Check out the full release details for the Air Jordan 11 Retro Legend Blue.

Air Jordan Ultimate Gift of Flight Pack - Dec. 23, 2014 - $500

The Air Jordan Ultimate Gift of Flight Pack features the newest Air Jordan and one of the best Air Jordans ever. The two pack features the Air Jordan 29 and the Air Jordan 11, celebrating performance, innovation and Legend Blue. This is one of the most anticipated Jordan Packs to be released to date and will be sure to have fans and collectors in a frenzy. Check out all the full details here for the Jordan Ultimate Gift of Flight Pack.

Released back in 1996, the Air Jordan 11 was ahead of its time. Form and function melded perfectly together for a great look on the court and off. The Air Jordan 11 features Legend Blue on the patent leather and smooth leather upper, and a white midsole and translucent outsole tinted in Legend Blue.

Today, the Air Jordan 29 is the lightest Air Jordan ever with a re-engineered Flight Plate and one piece woven upper that moves naturally and comfortably with your foot. The Air Jordan 29 features Legend Blue highlights with elephant print, framed with a white upper and translucent grey midsole.