The Nike KD 18 “Air Bakin'” Nods To A DMV Favorite

Kevin Durant’s Nike KD 18 signature shoe launched in mid-February as part of the Black Label collection, officially commencing the lifecycle of his 18th signature shoe with the Swoosh. While other pairs won’t be hitting retail until April, we’re getting some previews via Durant’s on-court selections and this newly revealed PE that has connections to his roots.

Images shared by sneaker photographer @uninstructedvision reveal a bright crimson red upper against a black base and midsole and golden yellow hits on the laces, Swoosh border, and mid-foot. As it turns out, this colorway is inspired by the Air Bakin‘, the Eric Avar-designed basketball shoe from 1997 that ended up being one of the more controversial shoes in brand history.

The public uproar was a result of the design on the “AIR” on the heel; it was created to appear as if the word was engulfed in flames, but it bore a similarity to “Allah” in Arabic. Nike quickly pulled the product that was in circulation, and the shoes released later with a standard Nike Air logo. The Air Bakin’s were a hit in the DMV area where Durant was born and raised.

Currently, a release is expected May 2025 for $150; see the images ahead for a closer look.