#KicksStalker: What makes the Agimat click?
A closer look at the Nike LeBron 14 “Agimat.” Photo from Nike PH
Now that the LeBron 14 “Agimat” has finally hit select shoe store shelves and found its way to the hands of giddy sneakerheads, it’s time to look at the qualities that made the shoe quite a pick among buyers.
First off, there’s the Filipino markings all over the shoe and its limited edition-issue box.
READ: #KicksStalker: Nike, LeBron provide Gilas PH with ‘Agimat’
The words “Para Sa Kadakilaan” appear on the heel tab and the heel cushion. If you have the limited edition box, you’ll find a triangular emblem on top that’s a replica of a medallion (an agimat, what else?) that accompanies the sneaker. There, you’ll also find the phrase “Mula mandirigma sa mandirigma” inscribed on it.
Photo from Nike PH
The traditional fabric woven along with the cultural elements adorning the shoe also help make it a collector’s piece among Filipino kicks stalkers.
The homage to the Filipino basketball culture interspersed with Filipino mythology is the reason why some of the Gilas Pilipinas players like Troy Rosario were in awe of the shoe, arousing feelings of national pride and patriotism even at just first glance.
“It feels so proud to see the Filipino words written on the shoe,” said the Gilas forward.
Photo from Nike PH
Also worth a look is the shoe’s perforated upper, which contributes to the Agimat being one of the lightest and fastest in the LeBron line. Filipino sneaker fans tend to lean to lightweight shoes and with LeBron James wanting to honor the country’s passion for hoops that matches his own, having a light, breathable and flexible shoe became a priority for the Agimat engineers.
GALLERY: Gilas Pilipinas rocks Nike LeBron 14 ‘Agimat’
Anyone who loves to play basketball, from the consummate pro to the wobbly weekend warriors, values cushioning too, and the Nize Zoom Air midsole provides the Agimat with comfortable absorption that maximizes every step.
With all those features and more, it’s no wonder people were queueing for the Agimat when it went on sale last weekend.
