Nike LeBron 9 - "China"

words // Brandon Richard

Diverging from the standard red, white and gold "China" sneakers we've seen in the past, this year's China-inspired LeBron shoe salutes 2012 and the Year of the Dragon on the Chinese Zodiac Calendar with a fire-themed colorway.

Understanding the blue is the hottest part of a flame, the "China" LeBron 9 is decked out in bright Neptune Blue, with Total Orange accenting the Swoosh logos, pull-tab and newly designed LeBron logo on the heel. A fire-breathing dragon graphic is sublimated on the tongue, while a flame appears on the pull-tab to further carry out the theme. Adding the finishing touches below is a blue 180-Max Air bag and translucent rubber outsole.

With a launch of the LeBron 9 slated for October 1st in China, it's highly likely we'll see this colorway made available to our friends overseas. No information on when they'll hit stateside retailers yet, but we'll keep you posted here at Sole Collector