The adidas Harden Vol. 9 is set to join in on the celebration of the Chinese New Year, paying homage to the Chinese Zodiac that decrees 2025 as the Year of the Snake (YOTS). As it just so happens, NBA superstar James Harden was born in 1989, and that year shares the same zodiac sign, making this pair a multi-faceted celebration.
First seen earlier this year when images of a sample surfaced, anticipation has been building for the LA Clippers guards' ninth signature shoe with adidas. Cyber Metallic, Glow Blue, and Red Metallic colorways are expected, amongst others, throughout next year. As the Chinese calendar has it, following a lunar schedule, the Year of the Snake begins on Wednesday, January 29, 2025. However, the pair is expected to launch well before the festivities begin.
Arriving with an outer shell enveloped in energy ink hues, the adidas Harden Vol. 9 Year of the Snake has snakeskin detailing across the layer, elevating the shoe. Beneath the striking outer shell lies a core black internal bootie that offers a snug and supportive fit. This internal structure ensures maximum comfort during intense gameplay, aligning with the brand's focus on performance without compromising style. The black bootie contrasts with the energy ink exterior, highlighting the shoe's layered aesthetic.
This design gives it a dynamic two-tone look, emphasized by the abstract cutouts along the midfoot that serve as Three Stripes branding, featuring mesh inlays. At the rear, a carbon fiber heel cup carries Harden's signature logo. The insoles are a major highlight, with a custom YOTS graphic on the right footbed, while the left features Harden's name, D.O.B, and birthplace. Completing the look is a rubber outsole crafted with many curved edges. Feet You Wear (FYW) technology inspires the outsole's pattern, which promotes natural foot motion and better grip.
The adidas Harden Vol. 9 Year of the Snake will release exclusively in China on December 26, 2024, through adidas and select retailers online and in-store. Coming in men's sizing, retail is to be announced. 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.
