Lebron James is a popular NBA basketball player in America. He entered the league as the number one draft pick in 2003 and was selected by the Cleveland Cavaliers. After seven record setting years, James became a free agent and left Ohio to join the Miami Heat. The player has sparked a wave of controversy and inspired stadiums full of crazed fans but the Lebron James shoes are easily the most recognizable result of his influence.

 James was born in December of 1984 and raised by a single mother. During his high school years, Lebron was known for shattering records and impressive stats. He had already experienced an enormous amount of fame and attention. He was named the Gatorade National Player of the Year during his junior year and played in three different all star games when he was a senior. Even his basketball games were nationally televised.

 Rather than playing ball in college, the then eighteen year old star opted to go straight into the NBA. Teams all over the country desperately wanted the young talent but it was his home state's team that used their first pick to grab him up.

 Like many popular athletes, James was offered various different endorsement deals. However, unlike other players, he was offered a considerable amount before he even began his professional career. He currently has deals with over five different companies including McDonald's, Sprite. However, it's his work with Nike that has garnered the most attention.

 Nike Incorporated is a major sportswear and equipment company that was founded in 1964. The company, which was originally known as Blue Ribbon Sports, is now one of the most profitable and sought after brands in the world. From their shoes and clothing to their jerseys and athletic gear, Nike has become a internationally recognized symbol. They are also known for recruiting and paying top athletes from many different sports to help promote their gear. The most talented soccer, football, and basketball players are paid handsomely to advertise the company's brand.

 With the Nike Company, Lebron James has released six signature styled shoes plus four regular ones. They are, among others, the Ambassador, the Soldier, the Air Max, and the Zoom. The shoes from his signature collection tend to come out in the winter of each year, although he has also regular released new ones to coincide with that year's playoff games.

 All of the different products feature varying designs and colors but for the most part they share the same basic structure. To provide optimum performance on the court, the shoes feature thick sides and gripped bottoms. They also offer cushioned impacts with their double stacked heels. And their high laces help prevent career ending ankle rolls as well.

 The different styles all feature James' personal touch as well. For instance, the Nike Zooms have Lebron's signature "King James" lion graphic on the tongues and his personal logo on the sides. Many of his playoff sneakers were released in colors that matched his teams.

LeBron James Shoes