With the 2018 NBA Playoffs officially getting underway this past weekend, that means it is almost time for Nike to release the latest addition to LeBron James' Soldier line. To mark the nearing release of the "Dark 23" Soldier 12 inspired by LeBron's traditional social media blackout during the playoffs, Nike has provided a closer look into the design of the new model.
The Soldier 12 was developed using insight of athletes ranging from high school ballers all the way up to King James himself. It brings back the laceless system introduced on the Soldier 10, but simplifies the system by reducing the total number of straps from four to one that crisscrosses its way up the upper. Another change made to the Soldier 12 is its shortened collar in comparison to past models.
"The Soldier was always meant to be stripped down in the best possible way," says Nike senior footwear designer Jason Petrie. "Even early on, LeBron’s insight was that the playoffs and the regular season are different. The Soldier has always been about toughness and connecting to the playoffs, in particular."
Other design details of the Soldier 12 include a knit upper similar to the Battleknit found on the LeBron 15, Velcro on the heel to adhere to the strap, and protective heel and toe caps. In particular, the "Dark 23" colorway will feature a blacked-out upper with nubuck on the toe and carbon fiber hits on the heel.
Expect the "Dark 23" Nike LeBron Soldier 12 to hit Nike SNKRS and other select retailers on April 25 for $140.
