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Nike KD15 Performance Review

Nike KD15

01 Jul 2022

We’re now onto the 15th model in Kevin Durant’s Nike signature series and after the acclaim last year’s model received, will the stripped back, minimal approach to a basketball shoe be a change for the better or worse?

Let’s cut to it straight away – for many players, these are going to play better than the much-loved 14s. Many of the things that made the 14s stand out are back and the new updates arguably improve things even further. Intrigued? Scroll on…

Traction needs to be reliable in a performance basketball shoe and the KD15 does not disappoint. You get all the multi directional grip thanks to a topographical inspired pattern design that performs exceptionally indoor and out on models with the added XDR outsole.

Fans of the KD14 will be happy with the carried over full length Air Zoom Strobel unit, which combined with the foam cushion midsole delivers a soft, plush and comfortable ride. OK, so the ride is firmer than the 14, which gives a more spring than pillowed approach. But this makes the KD15 perfect for quick movements, fast breaks and you can feel the energy returning as a result.

Lockdown also has an evolution. Gone is the one-piece Velcro strap that visually made the KD14 stand out, now replaced by two TPU winged elements on either side of the shoe. The laces go in and out of the TPU and the upper, securing your foot as you lace up with an arguably more stable and locked in sensation.

What else is new? Well, the ventilated tongue – arguably a big upgrade from the 14s – still features a double layer padded tongue with a mesh netting, but on the KD15 allows a lot more airflow and breathes a lot better. Which is always welcome. A translucent toe guard strip aids durability and reduces any unwanted abrasion.

The Nike KD15 basketball shoes are now essentially a low top, with a lower, scooped ankle collar for a bit more flexibility, agility but it’s still supportive. The overall fit is excellent with sufficient room on the toe box and not too narrow, although exceptional wide footed ballers may find this narrow.

So you wanna know if you should upgrade? Yes, it’s a bit firmer than the 14; yes, is more minimal in construction than the 14 and although not lighter than the 14, certainly feels like it on foot. There’s a lot to like about the Nike KD15 and as a performance basketball shoe, it has all the boxes ticked. Easy upgrade.

Shop all Kevin Durant Nike basketball shoes at Pro:Direct Basketball