Magnity

The world of Nike GS releases is a mixed bag that leaves some room for interpretation. On some of the more feminine looks (does the above pictured pair qualify?), it’s natural to see an abbreviation for ‘girls’, and Jordan Brand even goes so far as to use this designation in lieu of labeling any of its drops as WMNS. But the original expression was actually grade school, which means this new Nike Zoom Kobe VII GS was crafted with young ballers in mind, NikeStore even going so far as to label these as a “boys’ basketball shoe.” It is indeed built in the Deep Royal shade of the color most often associated with males, but you can’t deny that the Magenta and teal details push the blue sections toward purple and an overall look that’s ‘berry’ good, irrespective of its intended users’ gender. If you’re looking for a standout colorway and happen to fit in US sizes 3.5-7y, grab a pair of these Kobe VII GSes fromNikeStore.

Nike Zoom Kobe VII GS
Deep Royal Blue/Metallic Summit White-Magenta
505399-400

The Air Jordan XII looks to have such a rousing 15th birthday this year that one of its new variations has spilled over into the other Air Jordan Legacy model currently making the Retro rounds. TheJordan X Auto Clave is the Ten’s answer to the AJXII Clave, this design more closely resembling the 1995 original than its older sibling’s version. The Jordan 10 Clave is almost line-for-line the same as the OG AJX, just with a vulcanized sole, though this all-Varsity Red edition is like nothing we’ve ever seen from that model. Are we looking at a formidable new entrant into the lifestyle sneaker market, or do you prefer Jordan Brand’s sportier hybrid releases? Click through for a closer view and pick up this January 2012 release now at select retailers like ExtraButter.

Jordan X Auto Clave
Varsity Red/White
487225-601
01/2012
$110

As if they hadn’t already completely inundated the holiday shopping season with something for everyone and then some, Nike Sportswear has come through with word that they’ll be giving away pairs of this super-luxurious Nike Air Force 1 Bespoke that’ll go down in history by it’s nickname, ‘The Gift’. This ultra-premium AF1 Low was crafted by 21 Mercer Lead Design Consultant, Iz Mateo, in collaboration with this year’s iD Royale Contest winner Gianni Mele. They came together to really nail the spirit of the holidays, offering a look that’s both dark and warm, and one that overtly references its theme without going over the top. You’ll get a sense for how well the materials on these come together courtesty of a series of detailed shots from FRESHNESS, and then be sure to follow @21_Mercer on Twitter to get your chance at one of the four pairs up for grabs this week.

As of midnight last night, the Sneaker News 2011 Readers’ Choice Poll results were officially in the books, leading us right up to tonight’s moment of truth and the unveiling of this year’s winners. There were runaway landslides and some neck-and-neck battles, obvious favorites and a few sleepers, and when it was all said and done, we’re left with a year-end awards list determined entirely by you, our faithful readers. You might not be on board with all the winners, and quite frankly, neither are we, but at the end of the day, majority rules and the people have spoken. Keep reading to see what shoes took the crown in each category and thanks to all who participated in the Sneaker News 2011 Readers’ Choice voting.

Nike SB has officially kicked off our Twitter account! Follow us at http://twitter.com/nikesbfor news, links, contests and more — including a Twitter-based contest happening soon with challenges to meet and prizes to win!

Chasing the next big trick is the thrill of pursuit – sometimes you win the battle, sometimes you lose. But in skateboarding, the war is never over. Paul Rodriguez knows this, and his signature product is designed to help him soldier on. Watch the new Nike SB commercial starring Paul Rodriguez in Barcelona. Then check out the new Nike Paul Rodriguez 5 with Lunarlon, plus the P. Rod Fall 2011 apparel line including Dri-Fit denim, all available now.