LeBron’s Nikes Are Business, Not Personal
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By DERON SNYDER
Some folks behind the steering wheels of luxury sedans can barely keep food on the table. Some folks who live in gorgeous mini-mansions can barely pay their other bills. Some folks who regularly buy expensive clothes, make expensive hair-care appointments and drink expensive cups of coffee can barely make ends meet.
Is that the fault of the automakers, builders, designers, stylists and baristas? Of course not. Likewise, no one should blame Nike and LeBron James if their exorbitantly priced sneakers land on the feet of people who really can’t afford them.
A shock wave roiled pop culture this week when the Wall Street Journal reported that Nike’s priciest version of James’ next basketball shoe is expected to retail for $315. After a day of furious reaction from some quarters, Nike said the reported price is inaccurate, while pointing out that James’ main shoe will retail for $180, with another signature shoe offered at $120.
Even if the high-end, technology-laden model comes in at $275-$290, that’s still too costly for most of the teens and youngsters who’ll clamor for the shoes. Critics howled at Nike and James for having the nerve to market such expensive sneakers, especially given the current economic climate.
