The Nike LeBron 12 EXT "Rubber City" is inspired by the Rubber City of Akron, which is why it features a black and chrome color way. Its shades may be clearly different from those of the previous "Red Rubber City," which was released during the recent All-Star Weekend, but its black and chrome hues highlight the same features.
This particular design features an all-black base with a Hyperposite overlay that has a unique tire treads-like look. This makes it the show stand out from the others in the LeBron 12 collection which only sport the brand's traditional Megafuse upper portion.
The tread-like design is actually a tribute to Akron's Goodyear, which is a famous American tire and rubber company, according to Sneaker Bar Detroit. The report also included some pictures of LeBron 12 EXT "Rubber City."
The LeBron 12 EXT "Rubber City" is a clear nod to the basketball legend's roots in Ohio as well as Akron's established rubber industry. This dedication has been made clear by the tire tread-inspired textile found on the shoe's base which has also been rounded out by a chrome Swoosh logo.
The chrome color of the branding makes it stand out from the design's darker hues. Plus, the Nike Swoosh seems to represent tire rims as well as the chrome colors that hit the tips of the shoe's laces.
Furthermore, it sports a translucent type of outsole which is actually a signature feature in majority of today's Jordan and Nike basketball shoe designs, according to High Snob Society. The city's area code, 330, has been embedded on the heel tab.
The LeBron 12 EXT "Rubber City" will be out in select Nike sportswear retail stores on April 25, 2015. Although it sports a relatively classic appeal, this particular model is being sold for $250.
Meanwhile, the residents of Akron are divided with regard this new LeBron 12 design, as indicated in Slam Online. Some are dismayed with the shoe's too hefty price tag, while others are not huge fans of the small black spikes that the design sports on its rear portion.
"I am from Akron," said one fan. "I can't do that for $250 - unless they can make me 10 years younger. Won't be hooping in those, unless the price drops, at least, a bill."
"Akron's area codes 234 and 330," stated another. "Dope gesture to put that on the shoe. Not so sure how I feel about all the mini spikes. Oh, well, looks like I will be getting a request for these from my son."
