The Nike LeBron 21 Optimism brings a psychedelic, mismatched color gradient to the LeBron 21 silhouette. The left shoe of the Optimism Nike LeBron 21 fades from Bliss Pink to Laser Orange, while the right shoe displays a color gradient from Photo Blue to Vapor Green. The mesh upper boasts a 360-degree zonal cabling system—a series of wavy lines that radiate from the midsole and provide superior containment. These multicolor lines create an optical illusion, giving the upper a more molded appearance. Contrasting vibrant hues can also be found on the Phylon midsole, which houses Zoom Air cushioning in the heel and forefoot. Finally, the TPU shank plate supports the foot and provides structure. Our experts at StockX like the symbolism behind the exposed cabling system. The lines resemble the ridges on an oyster shell and symbolize LeBron’s desire to protect and shelter his daughter. The Nike LeBron 21 Optimism was released on May 1, 2024, and sold for $200.
The Nike LeBron 21 Optimism brings a psychedelic, mismatched color gradient to the LeBron 21 silhouette. The left shoe of the Optimism Nike LeBron 21 fades from Bliss Pink to Laser Orange, while the right shoe displays a color gradient from Photo Blue to Vapor Green. The mesh upper boasts a 360-degree zonal cabling system—a series of wavy lines that radiate from the midsole and provide superior containment. These multicolor lines create an optical illusion, giving the upper a more molded appearance. Contrasting vibrant hues can also be found on the Phylon midsole, which houses Zoom Air cushioning in the heel and forefoot. Finally, the TPU shank plate supports the foot and provides structure. Our experts at StockX like the symbolism behind the exposed cabling system. The lines resemble the ridges on an oyster shell and symbolize LeBron’s desire to protect and shelter his daughter. The Nike LeBron 21 Optimism was released on May 1, 2024, and sold for $200.
The Nike LeBron 21 Optimism brings a psychedelic, mismatched color gradient to the LeBron 21 silhouette. The left shoe of the Optimism Nike LeBron 21 fades from Bliss Pink to Laser Orange, while the right shoe displays a color gradient from Photo Blue to Vapor Green. The mesh upper boasts a 360-degree zonal cabling system—a series of wavy lines that radiate from the midsole and provide superior containment. These multicolor lines create an optical illusion, giving the upper a more molded appearance. Contrasting vibrant hues can also be found on the Phylon midsole, which houses Zoom Air cushioning in the heel and forefoot. Finally, the TPU shank plate supports the foot and provides structure. Our experts at StockX like the symbolism behind the exposed cabling system. The lines resemble the ridges on an oyster shell and symbolize LeBron’s desire to protect and shelter his daughter. The Nike LeBron 21 Optimism was released on May 1, 2024, and sold for $200.
The Nike LeBron 21 Optimism brings a psychedelic, mismatched color gradient to the LeBron 21 silhouette. The left shoe of the Optimism Nike LeBron 21 fades from Bliss Pink to Laser Orange, while the right shoe displays a color gradient from Photo Blue to Vapor Green. The mesh upper boasts a 360-degree zonal cabling system—a series of wavy lines that radiate from the midsole and provide superior containment. These multicolor lines create an optical illusion, giving the upper a more molded appearance. Contrasting vibrant hues can also be found on the Phylon midsole, which houses Zoom Air cushioning in the heel and forefoot. Finally, the TPU shank plate supports the foot and provides structure. Our experts at StockX like the symbolism behind the exposed cabling system. The lines resemble the ridges on an oyster shell and symbolize LeBron’s desire to protect and shelter his daughter. The Nike LeBron 21 Optimism was released on May 1, 2024, and sold for $200.
Last updated at 03/21/2026 16:29:39
Nike LeBron 21 'Optimism' | Multi-Color | Men's Size 14
Delivery between 23–30 Mar $25
Nike LeBron 21 Optimism
Delivery $34.95
originally posted on store.nike.com
As usual, these run small, especially in the toe box; This has been going on with the Lebron basketball shoe for at least the last ten years. You will need to go up a half to a full size in these. I went up a full size from my running shoe size and they fit great, along with wearing basketball socks which are thicker than your normal socks. My running shoe size is 11, so I got these in a 12. If you buy these in your normal running shoe size, you may complain about the fit, so size up before giving a negative review. Also, adjusting the shoe laces will adjust the fit to some degree.Generally speaking, I go up a full size in Lebrons and up a half size in Jordans.These are better than the Lebron XX as they are more flexible, as also stated by other reviewers of ... MoreAs usual, these run small, especially in the toe box; This has been going on with the Lebron basketball shoe for at least the last ten years. You will need to go up a half to a full size in these. I went up a full size from my running shoe size and they fit great, along with wearing basketball socks which are thicker than your normal socks. My running shoe size is 11, so I got these in a 12. If you buy these in your normal running shoe size, you may complain about the fit, so size up before giving a negative review. Also, adjusting the shoe laces will adjust the fit to some degree.Generally speaking, I go up a full size in Lebrons and up a half size in Jordans.These are better than the Lebron XX as they are more flexible, as also stated by other reviewers of this shoe. The cushion appears to be somewhat better than the Lebron XX also. Cushion & comfort is very important to me, besides grip, as I wanna protect my knees and keep shooting like Curry! --'cause I play a lot of competitive basketball. I am addicted to basketball and high quality basketball shoes.I was worried these might be too heavy, but they are not (like older Jordans, before the 34s), maybe slightly, but these are just fine.I feel the Lebron basketball shoes are simply improving over time.
originally posted on store.nike.com
Whenever I am breaking in Lebrons, I can expect feet pain for the first 3 times that I wear them. Once that phase has passed these shoes were really comfortable. I liked the padding in the heel and in the toe box. I played volleyball in these shoes and felt a lot of security around my ankles. For a basketball shoe, they’re also surprisingly lightweight and I didn’t feel too sluggish wearing them casually. I would give them a solid 90/100 for comfort. I wish there was a little bit more support in the arches. I would give it a 85/100 for style. The color way idea is dope and the suede material is fire! But I think the pearl theme just missed the mark. Tahitian pearls have a more purplish blue hue to them more than green and I think the black and purple would’ve been ... MoreWhenever I am breaking in Lebrons, I can expect feet pain for the first 3 times that I wear them. Once that phase has passed these shoes were really comfortable. I liked the padding in the heel and in the toe box. I played volleyball in these shoes and felt a lot of security around my ankles. For a basketball shoe, they’re also surprisingly lightweight and I didn’t feel too sluggish wearing them casually. I would give them a solid 90/100 for comfort. I wish there was a little bit more support in the arches. I would give it a 85/100 for style. The color way idea is dope and the suede material is fire! But I think the pearl theme just missed the mark. Tahitian pearls have a more purplish blue hue to them more than green and I think the black and purple would’ve been better than black and green. Either way, this is still a fire shoe and it doesn’t sacrifice comfort and durability for style. Overall 95/100 from me!
originally posted on store.nike.com
I have about 15 pairs of Lebron’s 18’s, 19’s, 8’s, and more. This was the most disappointing pair I have and the most looked forward to wearing. I wonder if the design team wore these or they didn’t expect anyone to in real life. The first time worn I got a nice scratch from the clutch peddle followed by another one hitting the car on the way out. The problem with the scratch is the underlying color is a very visible light color. As others pointed out size runs a little on the small side. Another disappointment because this inconsistency doesn’t exist in the other Lebron’s I have. Wanted to love these shoes but even Cinderella would avoid these dogs.
| Style | HF5353-500 |
Nike LeBron 21 'Optimism' | Multi-Color | Men's Size 14
Delivery between 23–30 Mar $25
Nike LeBron 21 Optimism
Delivery $34.95
As usual, these run small, especially in the toe box; This has been going on with the Lebron basketball shoe for at least the last ten years. You will need to go up a half to a full size in these. I went up a full size from my running shoe size and they fit great, along with wearing basketball socks which are thicker than your normal socks. My running shoe size is 11, so I got these in a 12. If you buy these in your normal running shoe size, you may complain about the fit, so size up before giving a negative review. Also, adjusting the shoe laces will adjust the fit to some degree.Generally speaking, I go up a full size in Lebrons and up a half size in Jordans.These are better than the Lebron XX as they are more flexible, as also stated by other reviewers of ... MoreAs usual, these run small, especially in the toe box; This has been going on with the Lebron basketball shoe for at least the last ten years. You will need to go up a half to a full size in these. I went up a full size from my running shoe size and they fit great, along with wearing basketball socks which are thicker than your normal socks. My running shoe size is 11, so I got these in a 12. If you buy these in your normal running shoe size, you may complain about the fit, so size up before giving a negative review. Also, adjusting the shoe laces will adjust the fit to some degree.Generally speaking, I go up a full size in Lebrons and up a half size in Jordans.These are better than the Lebron XX as they are more flexible, as also stated by other reviewers of this shoe. The cushion appears to be somewhat better than the Lebron XX also. Cushion & comfort is very important to me, besides grip, as I wanna protect my knees and keep shooting like Curry! --'cause I play a lot of competitive basketball. I am addicted to basketball and high quality basketball shoes.I was worried these might be too heavy, but they are not (like older Jordans, before the 34s), maybe slightly, but these are just fine.I feel the Lebron basketball shoes are simply improving over time.
Whenever I am breaking in Lebrons, I can expect feet pain for the first 3 times that I wear them. Once that phase has passed these shoes were really comfortable. I liked the padding in the heel and in the toe box. I played volleyball in these shoes and felt a lot of security around my ankles. For a basketball shoe, they’re also surprisingly lightweight and I didn’t feel too sluggish wearing them casually. I would give them a solid 90/100 for comfort. I wish there was a little bit more support in the arches. I would give it a 85/100 for style. The color way idea is dope and the suede material is fire! But I think the pearl theme just missed the mark. Tahitian pearls have a more purplish blue hue to them more than green and I think the black and purple would’ve been ... MoreWhenever I am breaking in Lebrons, I can expect feet pain for the first 3 times that I wear them. Once that phase has passed these shoes were really comfortable. I liked the padding in the heel and in the toe box. I played volleyball in these shoes and felt a lot of security around my ankles. For a basketball shoe, they’re also surprisingly lightweight and I didn’t feel too sluggish wearing them casually. I would give them a solid 90/100 for comfort. I wish there was a little bit more support in the arches. I would give it a 85/100 for style. The color way idea is dope and the suede material is fire! But I think the pearl theme just missed the mark. Tahitian pearls have a more purplish blue hue to them more than green and I think the black and purple would’ve been better than black and green. Either way, this is still a fire shoe and it doesn’t sacrifice comfort and durability for style. Overall 95/100 from me!
I have about 15 pairs of Lebron’s 18’s, 19’s, 8’s, and more. This was the most disappointing pair I have and the most looked forward to wearing. I wonder if the design team wore these or they didn’t expect anyone to in real life. The first time worn I got a nice scratch from the clutch peddle followed by another one hitting the car on the way out. The problem with the scratch is the underlying color is a very visible light color. As others pointed out size runs a little on the small side. Another disappointment because this inconsistency doesn’t exist in the other Lebron’s I have. Wanted to love these shoes but even Cinderella would avoid these dogs.
This review is for the LeBron XXI in black/metallic pewter-Iron grey. The packaging is impressive, definitely caught my eye and had me excited to open the box. The flip top box is a pearl white color with copper accents creating a clamshell like design. Upon opening the box the shoes were very nicely and snuggly packaged in white and decorative tissue adding to the elevated packaging.The shoe material is a very nice deep black and has a suede like feel. It is semi reflective/grey depending on the lighting and angle. The dark green/grey heal is subtle and blends right in with the clear/light green soles. The laces are thick and sturdy.Wearing the shoes out on the basketball court I could feel them gripping the ground making me feel confident while playing. They are ... MoreThis review is for the LeBron XXI in black/metallic pewter-Iron grey. The packaging is impressive, definitely caught my eye and had me excited to open the box. The flip top box is a pearl white color with copper accents creating a clamshell like design. Upon opening the box the shoes were very nicely and snuggly packaged in white and decorative tissue adding to the elevated packaging.The shoe material is a very nice deep black and has a suede like feel. It is semi reflective/grey depending on the lighting and angle. The dark green/grey heal is subtle and blends right in with the clear/light green soles. The laces are thick and sturdy.Wearing the shoes out on the basketball court I could feel them gripping the ground making me feel confident while playing. They are very light on my feet. The sizing was a little tight for me, I do have wide feet. While wearing them I felt like the thick laces did helped adjust the shoe around my feel. Eventually though I did start to feel hot spots around the palm of my feet. Possibly this could have been resolved by sizing up. This review is for the LeBron XXI in black/metallic pewter-Iron grey. The packaging is impressive, definitely caught my eye and had me excited to open the box. The flip top box is a pearl white color with copper accents creating a clamshell like design. Upon opening the box the shoes were very nicely and snuggly packaged in white and decorative tissue adding to the elevated packaging.The shoe material is a very nice deep black and has a suede like feel. It is semi reflective/grey depending on the lighting and angle. The dark green/grey heal is subtle and blends right in with the clear/light green soles. The laces are thick and sturdy.Wearing the shoes out on the basketball court I could feel them gripping the ground making me feel confident while playing. They are very light on my feet. The sizing was a little tight for me, I do have wide feet. While wearing them I felt like the thick laces did helped adjust the shoe around my feel. Eventually though I did start to feel hot spots around the palm of my feet. Possibly this could have been resolved by sizing up.
If you are a guard (point guard or shooting, slashing guard), and if you were a fan of Nike Kobe 6's, then I would highly recommend the LeBron XXIs ! It takes a good couple of weeks to break in the shoes! I had to size up 1/2 a size. The shoes run small and tight. When you get the correct size, you will be impressed by the lock-down, phenomenal traction and grip on the court, excellent support, cushioning and shock absorption. They are reasonably light weight, though heavier than Kobe 6s (in my opinion). It is easy to create off the dribble or just catch and shoot in these shoes. I didn't get any "creasing" in the toe box. I have four pairs of these shoes! Dick's had a great promotion(s) on the shoes. I cannot imagine what the LeBron XXII model will be like, but ... MoreIf you are a guard (point guard or shooting, slashing guard), and if you were a fan of Nike Kobe 6's, then I would highly recommend the LeBron XXIs ! It takes a good couple of weeks to break in the shoes! I had to size up 1/2 a size. The shoes run small and tight. When you get the correct size, you will be impressed by the lock-down, phenomenal traction and grip on the court, excellent support, cushioning and shock absorption. They are reasonably light weight, though heavier than Kobe 6s (in my opinion). It is easy to create off the dribble or just catch and shoot in these shoes. I didn't get any "creasing" in the toe box. I have four pairs of these shoes! Dick's had a great promotion(s) on the shoes. I cannot imagine what the LeBron XXII model will be like, but these shoes are as good, or better than Kobe 6s (in my opinion). Give them a try!
Comfortable shoe, but not as good as the 20s (so far). I hope NIke re-releases the 20s.Cons:- Laces - Nike switched from flat laces on the 20 to chunky round laces on the 21. The chunky round laces do not stay tied. I switched back to a spare pair of laces from some older nikes and it was an upgrade.- Colorways - the options on the colorways are not as good as the 20s.- Breathability - I feel like my feet sweat more in these than the 20s.Pros:- Fit - Out-of-box fit and comfort were better than the 20s; the 20's broke in pretty quick.- Cushioning - these feel softer than the 20s from a cushioning standpoint. Feel better after 90+ mins of play.- Eyelets - I didn't have any issues with the eyelets that some other reviewer mentioned. I felt like the eyelets on ... MoreComfortable shoe, but not as good as the 20s (so far). I hope NIke re-releases the 20s.Cons:- Laces - Nike switched from flat laces on the 20 to chunky round laces on the 21. The chunky round laces do not stay tied. I switched back to a spare pair of laces from some older nikes and it was an upgrade.- Colorways - the options on the colorways are not as good as the 20s.- Breathability - I feel like my feet sweat more in these than the 20s.Pros:- Fit - Out-of-box fit and comfort were better than the 20s; the 20's broke in pretty quick.- Cushioning - these feel softer than the 20s from a cushioning standpoint. Feel better after 90+ mins of play.- Eyelets - I didn't have any issues with the eyelets that some other reviewer mentioned. I felt like the eyelets on the 21s were better than the the NXXT
Ok so first of all… when I opened these my first thought was WOW!! These are freaking amazing!!! The 2 tone color is sick! The packaging was sick!Let’s talk comfort… Wore these for a few quick hoop sessions and they felt great. The sizing was a little off for me, I normally wear an 11 got these in an 11 but they were slightly too big. Not BAD just needed to wear a thicker sock. Comfort was not bad at all, I probably wouldn’t wear these for an entire day of walking but playing ball, I played both indoor and outdoor courts, and running errands in them was totally fine. All the materials are good quality. They were also pretty easy to wipe off clean. Definitely would recommend these, maybe just look out for the sizing. Overall great shoe.
My son had recently gotten into Basketball. He's been doing REALLY good in school and being good so I decided to do something nice for him and get him these Lebron James shoes. He messaged me half way through the day that people were asking him if they were fake, asking him how'd he get them?, and other kids were SOOOOO jealous. I felt like a GOD, like a KING... Like LEBRON !!!My son was ON TOP OF THE WORLD ! He said he had better jump and such swifter movement he was so impressed. He told me he'd saved $650 from working hard at his job and said, "Dad, can you get me another pair of shoes?" to which I asked why. He said, "These shoes are amazing Dad. Thank You SO much! If these shoes tear or something I'm going to need another pair."We shared a laugh and I told ... MoreMy son had recently gotten into Basketball. He's been doing REALLY good in school and being good so I decided to do something nice for him and get him these Lebron James shoes. He messaged me half way through the day that people were asking him if they were fake, asking him how'd he get them?, and other kids were SOOOOO jealous. I felt like a GOD, like a KING... Like LEBRON !!!My son was ON TOP OF THE WORLD ! He said he had better jump and such swifter movement he was so impressed. He told me he'd saved $650 from working hard at his job and said, "Dad, can you get me another pair of shoes?" to which I asked why. He said, "These shoes are amazing Dad. Thank You SO much! If these shoes tear or something I'm going to need another pair."We shared a laugh and I told him we'll see what we can do.I will be ordering my second pair of these later in the week.Thank You NIKE !
This Lebron xxi is a very nice looking shoe! The lines are sleek and simple. The black colorway is sharp; it has an “oil slick” look to it and the almost translucent green bottom is super appealing. The material easily wipes clean.As far as fit, overall it’s a very comfortable shoe. It has a great amount of foot support and is comfortable throughout the arch. However, if your feet are a bit wide through the ball of your foot these may not be the shoe for you…the toe box might be too tight for you to wear regularly. If they were made just slightly wider these would be a perfect 5 in my book.If you’re even remotely thinking about getting these to ball in, give them a try…I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.
I also have this shoe in the "Tahitian" colorway. Shoe is true to size, comfortable with supportive insole and surrounding padding. The soles have good traction for indoor basketball. Ankle support is decent, not great, as most basketball shoes in recent years are mid height and lower. Colorway is eye catching and unique, with a bit of iridescence that picks up the light when you move. I will mention that I have worn these only a few times so far and the material does appear like it may show toebox creasing a bit faster than other fabrications, as it is already holding the folds after only 3 wears, but that remains to be seen. Bought these as a backup pair for indoor court use only, and so far I would recommend and would purchase again.
| Style | HF5353-500 |
