Back to CREW MAGAZINE represents a pinnacle of athletic footwear design, embodying the essence of Dwyane Wade's storied career, cultural heritage, and personal life. This shoe is more than just basketball; it's a canvas for Wade's journey from his humble beginnings in Chicago to becoming one of the greatest players in the history of the NBA. Back to CREW MAGAZINE is a tribute to Wade's legacy, blending his history with innovative technology to create a shoe that reflects his unique path and how he made his own way.
Design and Performance
The Way of Wade signature line from Dwyane Wade and Li-Ning has consistently delivered on performance and design throughout the years. Last year's Way of Wade 10 was widely considered by many to be the best basketball shoe, and this year's release will follow in those steps. Compared to its predecessor, the shoe features a sleeker design, but it is still packed with Li-Ning's top-performance technology. The design is inspired by Afrofuturism, combining African-American heritage with a futuristic aesthetic that is evident throughout the shoe.
Innovation meets tradition within the Way of Wade 11's midsole. It features Li-Ning's premium BOOM cushioning and the Carbon Core Drive System, a groundbreaking feature that addresses basketball's four core functional demands: quick start-up, all-around play, speed, and power. By integrating carbon plates within the midsole material through an advanced molding process, the system achieves a unique "sandwich structure." This structural innovation enhances the shoe's performance, making it a game-changer for athletes seeking comfort and durability while staying secure.
The Art Of Storytelling
Storytelling is a key focus for the Way of Wade 11, and Dwyane Wade and the Li-Ning design team used this silhouette as a canvas to communicate that. The TPU wrapping around the heel of the Way of Wade 11 enriches the shoe with storytelling, tracing Wade's career from the beginning to all of his milestones. Symbols like the Triple Vortex (his three championships) and the 2013 Championship Trophy directly reference his titles, alongside the 2006 FMVP Trophy and the Historical Guard Block Leader, showcasing his exceptional performances and defensive skills. These details, alongside many more, create a visual biography of Dwyane Wade's life and career and carry over to the soles of the shoes that complete the story.
The rubber outsoles of the Way of Wade 11 complete the shoe and provide further storytelling through the Afrofutrism aesthetic. They present additional details from Wade's life in the form of totems and incorporate elemental design details that tie into his career and journey. Personal elements, such as his zodiac sign, his daughter's name, and his ties to Miami, add a heartfelt touch, while lightning bolts emphasize his explosive energy and "Flash" nickname.
How Does The Way Of Wade 11 Fit?
Back to CREW MAGAZINE is designed to fit true to size, similar to last year's WOW 10 release. Its ergonomic design ensures a snug fit around the foot, minimizing movement and maximizing stability during gameplay. If you have never owned a Li-Ning product before, it is recommended that you stay with your standard Nike size.
Back to CREW MAGAZINE is more than just a basketball shoe; it's a celebration of Dwyane Wade's remarkable career and the values he holds dear. From its detailed sole design to the innovative performance technology, every aspect of the shoe is designed to honor Wade's legacy and inspire future generations of athletes. As a testament to Wade's impact on the sport and beyond, the Way of Wade 11 stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding us that the journey defines our greatness, not the destination.
