All-Time Best Nike KD Sneakers

Nike KD 17 "Penny"

Nike KD 17 "Penny" | Image: Nike

The partnership between Kevin Durant and Nike has been phenomenally successful—a synergy that has spawned some of the basketball and sneaker realm’s most celebrated footwear.

As we celebrate the release of the Nike KD 17 in the “Sunrise” and “Penny” hues, now is an opportune time to reflect on the path leading to this landmark.

We reminisce over the “Creamsicle,” “Weatherman,” and the “Aunt Pearl” collections, taking a look at the top 17 Nike KD variants of all time.


KD1 “Sonics” (2008)

The odyssey initiated with the KD 1 “Sonics,” honoring Durant’s inaugural season with the Seattle SuperSonics. Adorned in the team’s emblematic green and yellow, the KD 1 was an homage to the team’s signature palette. The minimalist yet efficient design laid the groundwork for subsequent creations. The “Sonics” variant continues to resonate with enthusiasts as a token of Durant’s nascent stage and his burgeoning prodigy.


KD2 “Creamsicle” (2009)

With the KD 2, the lineup featured more striking and whimsical patterns. The “Creamsicle” colorway captivated attention with its intense orange exterior, drawing inspiration from the Oklahoma City Thunder’s alternative kits. This eye-catching shoe quickly won over the hearts of many, representing Durant’s fresh vigour and his electrifying finesse on the court.


Nike KD 3 “Christmas” (2010)

Unveiled for the festive period, the KD3 “Christmas” donned a lively mix of yellow, blue, and red tones. The concept paid homage to the Yuletide matches where Durant regularly showcased his talent to audiences nationwide. This shoe became a seasonal favorite for both sneaker aficionados and basketball devotees.

The Nike KD 3 “Christmas” was reissued in December 2023.


Nike KD 3 “Scoring Title” (2011)

Commemorating Durant’s premier NBA scoring championship, the KD3 “Scoring Title” showcased a distinctive style with motifs and tints that celebrated his achievement. This athletic shoe manifested Durant’s scoring finesse and his supremacy in the offensive playfield.


Nike KD 4 “Nerf” (2011)

One of the acclaimed KD sneakers, the KD 4 “Nerf,” introduced a jovial and reminiscent concept to the footwear scene. Its bright, toy-inspired color palette coupled with distinctive packaging made this launchImmediately recognized as a timeless masterpiece, this rendition fuses Durant’s spirited competitiveness with a playful and inventive spirit.

In July 2024, the Nike KD 4 “Nerf” makes its comeback.


Nike KD 4 “Weatherman” (2011)

A notable legendary model, the KD 4 “Weatherman” exhibits a motif influenced by Durant’s boyhood aspiration to become a weather forecaster. The distinct sneakers, featuring a blend of green and blue hues ornamented with meteorological chart imagery, established their dominance both athletically and stylistically. This model showcased Nike’s flair for intertwining narrative with avant-garde design.

The Nike KD 4 “Weatherman” resurfaced on May 21, 2024.


Nike KD 4 “N7” (2012)

The KD 4 “N7” was crafted in support of Nike’s N7 Initiative, aiming to introduce athletic pursuits to Native American and Aboriginal populations across North America. Its turquoise and red palette, adorned with detailed motifs, pays tribute to indigenous traditions and underscores the significance of community contribution.


Nike KD 4 “Galaxy” (2012)

As a member of the storied 2012 NBA All-Star “Galaxy” collection, the KD 4 “Galaxy” draws its theme from the cosmos. Its futuristic appeal is undeniable with a metallic silver upper decorated with celestial graphics and an outsole that glows in the night. This model captured the essence of forward-thinking and became an in-demand item.

February 2024 witnessed the reissue of the Nike KD 4 “Galaxy”.


Nike KD 4 “Gold Medal” (2012)

Celebrating Durant’s glorious conquest with Team USA at the 2012 Olympics, the KD 4 “Gold Medal” is adorned with a red, white, and blue color pattern that evokes patriotism. This sneaker not only honors Durant’s international triumphs but also symbolizes his vital role in securing the triumph.


Nike KD 5 “BHM” (2013)

Included in Nike’s acknowledgment of Black History Month, the KD 5 “BHM” displays a bold black and orange color theme with elaborate patterns. It pays respect to the African American legacy and spotlights the accomplishments of black sports icons. The “BHM” KD 5 stood as a significant emblem of Durant’s esteem for his lineage and influence on basketball.


Nike KD 6 “DC Pre-Heat” (2013)

The KD “DC Pre-Heat” offers tribute to Durant’s place of origin, Washington, D.C. It showcases a vivid green, teal, and pink color palette, derived from the city’s structural and natural scenery. This edition underscores Durant’s origins and his ascension from capital city streets to NBA fame.


Nike KD 6 “All-Star” (2014)

A member of the 2014 All-Star series, the KD 6 “All-Star” exhibits a distinctive aesthetic complete with phosphorescent details and a lively chromatic scheme. The cosmically-inspired motif pays homage to New Orleans, the celebrated host of that year’s All-Star festivities. This special model casts a spotlight on Durant’s consistent All-Star caliber and his capacity to excel on basketball’s grandest occasions.


Nike KD 7 “35K Degrees” (2014)

Inspired by the phenomenon of lightning, which touches down on Earth at an estimated heat of 35,000 degrees Fahrenheit, the KD 7 “35K Degrees” mirrors Durant’s swift and dynamic approach on the court. The sneaker’s vivid orange hue with metallic silver highlights evokes the fervent blaze of a lightning bolt, rendering this sportive footwear a conspicuous enhancement to the KD series.


Nike KD 7 “Aunt Pearl” (2015)

Dedicated to his late aunt who succumbed to cancer, the KD 7 “Aunt Pearl” is among the most poignant additions to Durant’s sneaker lineage, donning a white and soft pink color scheme with seraphic wings, embodying her unwavering spirit and the crusade against cancer. Holding significant sentimental value, this sneaker not only embodies personal remembrance but also galvanizes support for cancer research.


Nike KD 14 “Ron English” (2021)

Resulting from a collaboration with the acclaimed artist Ron English, noted for his pop-surrealism artwork, the KD 14 “Ron English” basketball sneaker was adorned with effervescent illustrations and prominent tones, mirroring English’s iconic style. This variant embodies an amalgamation of athletic prowess and creative flair, reflecting Durant’s esteem for originality and cultural artistry.


Nike KD 15 “Aunt Pearl”

In honor of his late aunt, the KD 15 “Aunt Pearl” iteration is bathed in shades of pink. This model serves as a commemorative piece for Aunt Pearl, actively contributing to the Kay Yow Cancer Fund. With its poignant design, the KD 15 “Aunt Pearl” declares Durant’s commitment to harness his influence for charitable causes while keeping his aunt’s legacy vibrant both on the hardwood and beyond.


Nike KD 16 “All-Star”

Released in celebration of the 2023 All-Star Game, the KD 16 “All-Star” showcases a design teeming with vibrancy, giving a nod to Durant’s “Easy Money” moniker. With holographic currency illustrations on the tongue tabs, $35 imprinted underneath translucent orange TPU layers, and a compelling aesthetic, the sneaker ensured Durant’s presence was prominent during the All-Star celebrations.


The Nike KD 17: A New Chapter

Nike KD 17 "Penny" FJ9487-100

Signifying the progression in Durant’s play and Nike’s ceaseless innovative spirit with each introduction, the KD 17 presents advanced technicalities and fashionable features reminiscent of the Air Max Plus. The KD 17 stands poised to join the KD footwear lineage as a celebrated new chapter.

Expected to be available on May 24, 2024, the Nike KD 17 in the “Penny” alternatively known as the “Glacial Rift” colorway will be on offer at distinct Hibbett Sports establishments countrywide as well as through their online platform, Hibbett.com.

  1. Sneakers Top Trends

    Official Release Date for the Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen”

    jordan-tatum-3-zen-fz6598-001-release-date-3jpg

    jordan-tatum-3-zen-fz6598-001-release-date-3jpg

    The Boston Celtics’ season is unfolding just as they had envisioned, with only one loss to report and a striking 30 points per game average from their star player, Jayson Tatum.

    After a more eventful off-season than what championship teams typically endure, Tatum and his Boston teammates have skillfully tuned out distractions, staying focused on their goal of repeating their success early in the season. In line with this theme, the upcoming #0 Jordan Tatum 3 is about to launch a “Zen” colorway that embodies this same sense of tranquility.

    The motif of serenity has been a consistent element in Jayson Tatum’s sneaker line, especially highlighted by the “Vortex” version of the Tatum 2, which explicitly connects to this theme: our previous coverage noted that the design reflects Tatum’s calm demeanor, reminiscent of the peacefulness found in a vortex above water.

    While this new model opts for a more subdued color palette, its execution remains true to that original concept; the graceful cut-outs in the upper design resemble calm waters, serving as a guiding inspiration throughout Tatum’s signature collection.

    As mentioned earlier, the Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen” is set to launch on November 14th via Nike.com, available in sizes for the whole family. The adult versions will be priced at $125.

    For a closer look at this appealing colorway, check out the official images below, and make sure to keep an eye on our Sneakers page for updates.


    Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen”

    SKU: FZ6598-001

    RETAIL PRICE: $125

    RELEASE DATE: Nov 14, 2024

    Jordan Tatum 3 “Zen” (Images via: Nike)

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  2. Sneakers Top Trends

    Jason Kelce’s Field Goal Attempt In Timberlands Will End In A $100,000 Donation

    This Saturday, November 2nd, Jason Kelce will take on a field goal challenge while wearing Wheat Timbs during the ESPN College GameDay broadcast of the highly anticipated Penn State vs. Ohio State matchup. The idea for this challenge originated when college student Daniel Villasenor successfully kicked a field goal in Vans checkerboard slip-ons, winning an impressive $100,000 earlier in October.

    Initially discussed on the Kelce brothers’ New Heights podcast with special guest Pat McAfee, this lighthearted challenge quickly evolved into a real event. The NFL legend, Jason Kelce, is set to attempt scoring three points while donning the famous Wheat Timberlands.

    In an exciting twist, VF Corp — the parent company of both Vans and Timberland — has stepped in with a generous $100,000 commitment to the charity Soles4Souls, aimed at supporting hurricane relief efforts. Fortunately for Jason, VF Corp has assured that the funds will be donated regardless of whether his kick is successful or not.

    Make sure to tune in to ESPN College GameDay on November 2nd, 2024, to witness this unique field goal attempt for yourself!

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  3. Sneakers Top Trends

    Notre and Vans Collaborate For the Rowley XLT “Linen”

    NOTRE-NOV-15-1200x675jpg

    NOTRE-NOV-15-1200x675jpg

    The highly anticipated Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen” is set to drop on November 15, 2024, exclusively at Notre and its flagship location.

    Be sure to check HQZ’s Sneakers page to stay updated on the latest happenings and drops in the sneaker world.


    Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen”

    Colorway: Linen/Silver
    Style #: VN000D1GDPB1
    Release Date: November 15, 2024
    Price: $165

    Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen”

    Notre x Vans Rowley XLT “Linen” VN000D1GDPB1 (Images via: @oscar_castillo/Instagram)

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