Paul Rodriguez continues to push boundaries of footwear technology in skate shoes, as he introduces his ninth instalment of his signature line in the Nike SB P-Rod 9 Elite.
Having become the SB brand’s longest-running signature athlete, celebrating the lines 10th anniversary this year, P-Rod marks this landmark with the most technologically advanced signature silhouette of the Paul Rodriguez series to date. The aim of the design is to protect, adapt to and support the foot through the rigours of skateboarding, from bombing hills to clearing stair sets. The low profile silhouette draws from Paul’s personal style and combines Nike’s knowledge in forward thinking functionality.
The 9 Elite is constructed from a lightweight and breathable Hyperfuse panelling on the seamless upper which meets with a durable suede on the toe box and heel, giving the shoe a premium feel. Moving the laces further back from the toe avoids unnecessary wear, while the Flywire cabling at the lacing system gives a ‘dynamic lockdown’ of the foot, keeping the foot stable through sketchy landings. The sole utilises several of Nikes key technological features, with the Air sole unit built into the shoes sock liner for optimal cushioning while Nike’s Hexagonal Zoom Air sole has been utilised to provide flexibility in the forefoot. The translucent and multidirectional rubber outsole is highly durable and also offers traction to keep your feet on the board.
Although most P-Rod footwear releases are met with a fair amount of opposition from those who aren’t too keen on the high tech shoes, Nikes and P-Rod’s willingness to explore new opportunities in skate footwear has continued to develop the search to create the best skate option possible. With all the protection and comfort you could want in a skate shoe and more, the Nike SB P-Rod 9 Elite continues to build on the legacy of one of the most respected riders in world skateboarding. You can pick up the Nike SB P-Rod 9 Elite, in two colour ways, at nike.com and selected Nike SB retailers.
