LeBron James Gifts Ohio State Cleats Inspired by the LeBron 4 ‘Eggplant’

Sneaker-inspired cleats have become big business in recent years. Galvanised by the custom community, college sponsorship deals and player PEs, there are more and more football players channelling the energy of sneaker classics than ever before.

Ahead of the Big Ten matchup between Oregon and Ohio State, LeBron James will be hoping his home team can get over the line with special edition Vapor Edge Zoom cleats inspired by the Nike LeBron 4 ‘Eggplant’. Originally appearing in 2006, the LeBron 4 ‘Eggplant’ is still a classic of the LeBron sneaker cannon. Imbued with a deep purple hue and metallic sheen, the silhouette was known for its eye-catching Foamposite shell and patented full-length Zoom cushioning.

The Vapor Edge Zoom provides a solid canvas for exploring the design hallmarks of the LeBron 4 ‘Eggplant’. Featuring both the Foamposite material and reflective finish, the cleats are also emblazoned with LeBron’s signature 23 logo, this time appearing on the tongue in all black.

Of course, it’s not the first time we’ve seen LeBrons from the Nike vault grace football cleats. Other notable models include the LeBron 4 ‘Graffiti’ cleats and the LeBron Soldier 12, which Odell Beckham Jr. laced pregame during the 2018–19 season.

Unfortunately, we’re not expecting a retail release for these, but keep an eye on Saturday’s Oregon-Ohio State game to check out the special edition cleat.