Official Images Of The Nike KD 18 “Air Bakin”

An ode to an iconic and controversial shoe.

Sneaker News May 1st, 2025 (updated)

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Updated May 1st, 2025: The Nike KD 18 “Air Bakin” has been officially revealed, continuing the retro inspirations for a silhouette that already draws comparisons to trail models like the Terra Humara. In these shots, finer details like alternating Swooshes below the collar and embroidery on the inner tongue reading “EA$Y” come into clear view. The throwback look, comprised of “Fire Red/Black/Amarillo” shading, is expected to release on May 15th, retailing for $150.

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WHERE TO BUY

Mens Nike KD 18 "Air Bakin'"

SKU: HV1992-600

RETAIL PRICE: $150

RELEASE DATE: May 15, 2025

After Market

M 4.5 / W 6 M 5 / W 6.5 M 5.5 / W 7 M 6 / W 7.5 M 6.5 / W 8 M 7 / W 8.5 M 7.5 / W 9 M 8 / W 9.5

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US 05/15/2025 Thursday

Retailer	Release type	Status
DICK'S	Standard	Check Site
Foot Locker	Standard	Check Site
TAKOUT NY	Standard	Check Site
Nikestore US	Coming Soon	Coming Soon

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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.