Li-Ning and Dwyane Wade Announce New Way Of Wade 9 Basketball Signature

Chinese sportswear giant Li-Ning eschews traditional shoelaces Dwyane Wade The WOW9 in high-top format, aka the WOW9 Infinity ( it’Way of Wade) following the announcement of a new signature basketball shoe. Known as the Way Of Wade 9, or WOW9, this generational update is a visual departure from the incumbent WOW8 with a new sleek shape and ankle-hugging cut. Somewhere between a space boot and speed sock, let’s take a closer look at exactly what’s going on here.

The WOW9 in high-top format, aka the WOW9 Infinity, Way of Wade and instead uses the futuristic winding wire system from closure innovators BOA. Fit can be adjusted on the fly by twisting two low-profile dials on the lateral side of the upper, which is covered in a zippered shroud for maximum aerodynamics. Another plus is the graphic treatment possibilities on this shroud; Li-Ning and Wade opt for a molecular pattern (giving this colourway the nickname of ‘Announcement’ that ‘is representative of starting from scratch and seeing infinite possibility in the future’. It looks pretty cool either way.

Alternatively, there’s an all-white version of the WOW9 Infinity too, nicknamed the ‘Balance’. Stripping back all colour reveals the futuristic design details already not mentioned, such as the BOOM foam midsole with cored-out arch for maximum court prowess. There’s also a healthy amount of carbon fibre for lightweight rigidity and support that meets the demands of armchair coaches worldwide and Dwyane himself.

Otherwise, the WOW9 also has a low-cut alternative for players who prefer breezy ankles, or street ballers that don’t need the full six inches. The Low does ditch the BOA system, and pulls the laces from the bench, but everything is still kept clean with the same zippered shroud overlay.

Stay tuned for release info.