Nike KD 15 Performance Review

The Nike KD 15 is the newest in the line of Kevin Durant’s signature sneakers. After the success of last year’s model which was one of the top models last year, the Nike KD 15 followed in the 14’s foot’s steps and has also made it to our Best Basketball Shoes list. Many things that worked last time are back, and some changes may make these better – at least for some people. You can grab them using the link above or at the end of the review.

The Nike KD 15 is also featured on the Best Outdoor Basketball Shoes, Best Traction, Best Basketball Shoes for Ankle Support, Best Low Tops, Most Comfortable, Best Basketball Shoes for Shooting Guards, Best Basketball Shoes for Small Forwards, Best Basketball Shoes for Power Forwards, and Best Basketball Shoes for Centers. It’s also one of the best shoes for jumping and one of the best volleyball shoes, and Nike volleyball shoes on the market.

Traction

Traction is multi-directional and grips every surface very well. The traction pattern isn’t exactly like the traction on the Nike Kobe 9, but at first glance, it really does give off some Kobe 9 vibes. The grip is excellent, maybe not Kobe 9 level, but still great.

Cushion

The cushion setup is the same as in the KD 14, which is great, considering the KD 14 was one of the most comfortable rides of the year. The midsole foam is Cushlon, that’s soft and plush. The strobel board is a full-length Zoom Air unit that’s springy under your feet. This is great for flat-footers since foam and Zoom Air will cover you anywhere. This year, they feel lower to the ground for better stability.

Materials

The materials on the KD 15 are nothing special but they do their job well while keeping the shoe lightweight and comfortable. We’re grateful that the annoying strap from the last model was removed. Now, you don’t have to worry about the strap loosening and flapping around when you’re out there playing your best. They replaced the strap with two independent plastic pieces on both lateral and medial sides, which work better for containment. The materials are still all textile, which is expected from all modern basketball shoes. The tongue is reminiscent of Nike’s Torch system – one of the best there ever was.

Fit

Fit is true to size. Last year’s model had us going up half a size, especially for the non-EP versions. This time around, you can go with your usual size. The materials rest well on your feet and are comfortable to play in, though they’re thinner. The fit will improve because of the insoles molding to your feet. Just be patient with the break-in time.

If your wear ankle braces and other accessories and you plan to try these on in-store, make sure to bring those with you for more accurate sizing.

Support

Support on the KD 15 is excellent, and a slight upgrade on last year’s model. Even with the removal of the midfoot strap, you still get all the support you need. There’s the traditional heel counter. Both lateral and medial sides have been reinforced with TPU pieces to act as lockdown wings. They also help catch you on hard side-to-side movements. The key here is to get the right size.

Overall

The Nike KD 15 is one of the best basketball performance sneakers of the year. There’s little to complain about. You won’t like these if you’re picky with materials and want leather. However, as a modern basketball shoe goes, it has everything you need. Plus, most colorways are great so far. This feels like a true evolution from last year’s Nike KD 14.

Initial Nike KD 15 Detailed Look

What’s in the video?

In the video, Chris provides detailed information from all the usual categories, providing the in-depth information you need. He supplies expert-level opinions on the materials, cushioning, traction, support, and fit. Here’s some of what he discusses:

• Gorgeous outsole
• XDR rubber for EP versions
• Same cushion setup as Nike KD 14
• Feels lower to the ground with Zoom Air Strobel
• Same insoles as Nike Kobe 6
• Full textile, breathable upper
• Nike Air Presto-looking cage
• Inspiration from Nike Air Jet Flight and AJ 4?
• Cool Swooshes
• Thanos’s chin in the rear
• Nike Torch System-like tongue
• Sizing recommendations
• Additional support features
• Rear branding like the AJ 12

As an added bonus, Mrs. Wing and Chris debate the color of the sneaker.

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Let us know your opinion on the KD 15 in the comment section below or on YouTube or Twitter.

How to Buy the Nike KD 15

The Nike KD 15 is available now at iD4Shoes on eBay and at Nike. More sizes are available at Foot Locker.

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