Barack Obama Nike Hyperdunk PE

Release: Auction Delayed  Retail: Opening Bid $12k Purchase link: Sotheby’s

Back in 2009, Nike developed a shoe for a very special client, 44th President Barrack Obama. Obama was notorious for his pick-up basketball games. For him, Nike released a one-of-one, the Nike x Obama Hyperdunk PE. Nike made one pair for the president, and kept only one other pair, the concept set, in pristine condition. Sometime this year, Sotheby’s auction house will hold the first and only sale of these unicorn sneakers.

Donovan Mitchell x Adidas Top Ten Hi

Release: Feb 20  Retail: $90 Purchase Link: Kixify

In a move to re-enter the hoop shoes conversation, Adidas brought in young go-hard Donavan Mitchell, and let the Utah Jazz point guard do his thing. Donavan put his spin on the classic Top Ten Hi’s using navy suede, white leather and shocks of green around the ankle and under sole to salute the franchise that made him a pro, the Jazz.

Nike Zoom Kobe 6 “All-Star”

Release: Delayed to March 8  Retail: $180 Purchase Link: GOAT

For the one year anniversary of Kobe Bryant’s passing, Nike is giving the Kobe 6 the All-Star treatment. The 2021 release will be an exact reproduction of the sneakers Kobe wore in the 2011 NBA All-Star game.Some speculate the new release will, like the “Grinch” before it, have surprise upgrades: “Air Zoom Turbo will be hidden in the forefoot, a softer, responsive foam will furnish the heel, and the tread will arrive with an improved traction” (sneakernews.com).

Nike x LeBron 7 “Dodgers”

Release: Feb 28  Retail: $200 Purchase Link: StockX

In 2020, Los Angeles was a two-time winner, claiming championships in both the MLB and NBA. To commemorate, the Los Angeles Lakers’ small forward LeBron James is releasing a special colorway, tipping his hat to the LA Dodgers. The “white,” “rush blue,” and “university red” color scheme of the baseball team dominate the design. The stitching on the tongue and heel-tab resemble the iconic stiching of a baseball.

APL Lusso Supreme Black/Pure Gold

Release: Special Order Only  Retail: $20k Purchase Link: APL

Yup. You read the price right. If you haven’t heard of Athletic Propulsion Labs (APL), look them up. The California based shoe company has an interesting history, including being banned from the NBA for giving athletes too much of a lift. As for the Lusso Supremes and their price tag, we’ll let the designers speak. In the company’s own words, “made-to-order APL Lusso Supreme in Black/Pure Gold is entirely handmade in Italy from Nile crocodile skin painted in 24K pure gold. Designed as the definitive expression of luxury, the Lusso Supreme combines the ultimate upper with the famed APL Propelium performance cushioned midsole. Subtle hand stamped logos and waxed cotton laces show the attention to detail. Each privileged owner will have the option to have their shoes personalized with their name detailed on the inside of the shoe.”