The Nike Vapor 12 Hypersmash Channels Kobe Bryant’s Legendary 2008 Hyperdunk

have officially unveiled the Vapor 12 Hypersmash ‘United We Rise’, a high-performance tennis shoe inspired by one of the most revered basketball sneakers of all time – the Nike . Worn by during the Beijing Olympics, the original Hyperdunk became an instant classic. Now, that legacy is reimagined for the court – this time, in the world of tennis.

Blending nostalgia with cutting-edge performance, the Vapor 12 Hypersmash takes direct inspiration from the Vapor 11 while incorporating upgrades for speed, agility and durability. The reengineered upper is designed for enhanced breathability and lockdown, providing stability during quick lateral movements – a must-have for competitive tennis players. Flywire cables add midfoot support, while a TPU heel counter pays homage to the 2008 Hyperdunk’s futuristic design cues.

The ‘United We Rise’ colour scheme – a bold mix of red, white and blue – directly nods to Team USA’s gold-medal-winning run in 2008, further strengthening the shoe’s connection to its basketball roots. Underfoot, a herringbone-patterned outsole ensures top-tier traction, allowing for sharp pivots and explosive accelerations. Meanwhile, Zoom Air cushioning delivers responsive impact protection, comfort and support for high-intensity play.

With a retail price of $180, the Nike Vapor 12 Hypersmash ‘United We Rise’ is available now via Nike.com and select retailers.

Looking for more sneakers that transcended their Olympic origins? Check out our top picks