Set to launch next year, the adidas Harden Vol. 9 Hell Cat promises to be an exciting addition to the celebrated signature sneaker range of NBA superstar James Harden. Arriving alongside the Metamorphosis pair and an Ice Metallic iteration, next spring promises plenty of choice for consumers globally.
With a long history of producing high-performance basketball footwear, The Brand With The Three Stripes has ensured that the Harden Vol. 9 follows this tradition. One of the key design elements of the adidas Harden Vol. 9 is the internal neoprene bootie that ensures a snug, sock-like fit. Thus, it provides enhanced comfort and flexibility, adapting to the foot’s natural movements during intense gameplay.
The bootie is wrapped in a durable synthetic overlay, creating a harmonious blend of structure and comfort. This model features the iconic "bred" colorway—a black and red combination that has long been revered in basketball culture. However, adidas and Harden have given this colorway the nickname “Hell Cat,” likely an homage to the iconic Dodge engine upgrade in the Challenger and Charger.
With the color scheme prominently emphasizing the curved look of the silhouette, the black base color of the bootie and overlay provides a sleek, almost futuristic look. Departing from the traditional Three Stripes branding, the Harden Vol. 9 Hell Cat showcases three sections of lucid red mesh underlays strategically placed along the midfoot. These sections vibrantly contrast, contributing to the modern design that balances style with breathability.
This unique branding decision elevates the overall aesthetic, making the sneaker stand out on and off the court while keeping functionality at the forefront with a design that promotes airflow. The shoe sits atop an FYW-style (Feet You Wear) rubber outsole, which has been crafted to support dynamic movement with superior grip and stability.
The adidas Harden Vol. 9 Hell Cat will release on April 5, 2025, through adidas and select retailers online and in-store. Men's sizing will be available at the retail price of $160. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via adidas
Craig Bell happily talks about sneakers or as he calls them "trainers" every day of the year. An avid Bradford City fan, he's also a big supporter of the Philadelphia Eagles. He will forever profess that Cricket is better than Baseball and that Rugby League is better then Rugby Union. Among his many hot takes, he believes the adidas ZX range is the pinnacle of sneaker design.
