Even though Li-Ning has been supplying sneakers to NBA players for years now, it wasn't until Dwyane Wade left Jordan Brand for the Chinese footwear company that the sneaker community started taking notice. While official releases of D-Wade's sneakers have been rare in the States, a cult-like following has already started to develop for the brand. Sole Collector had the chance to catch up with the the man spearheading the Li-Ning movement in the U.S., John Lyon, for its latest edition of NICHE.
Lyon shows off signature sneakers from Baron Davis, Evan Turner, and Marc Gasol, but it's his D-Wade collection that is his bread and butter. From the Way of Wade 2 "Birthday" to the "Ring Night" and "All-Star," Lyon's got an impressive collection of hard-to-find Li-Ning gems.
While Li-Ning's presence in the U.S. is growing, Lyon understands how most sneakerheads might perceive the brand. He says, "Most people, it seems, are afraid to try new things. They're afraid to stretch away from the bigger brands, but I always like to try new things and I'm glad that I have because nobody is doing what Li-Ning is doing." Check out Lyon's collection on NICHE and you'll understand exactly what he's talking about.
