James Harden and his Los Angeles Clippers are holding their own in the Western Conference as the team currently sits in the 6th seed as we approach the All-Star break. The Beard’s performance on the court has been elevated through his signature sneaker line with adidas. It recently debuted its 9th model, the adidas Harden Vol. 9, over the weekend in the Cyber Metallic colorway. After previews of pairs like Red Metallic, Ice Metallic, and the Hell Cat-inspired rendition, images of a new colorway in Core Black Warm Vanilla have appeared.
While the color palette doesn’t stray too far from the upcoming Pearlized rendition, the material makeup of this new Harden Vol. 9 sets it apart from other sneaker versions. Typically, the sneaker features mesh ventilation slashes along the midfoot that rest between the leather overlays, helping create Three Stripes branding. However, this pair coats the entire upper, sans the internal bootie, with one piece of smooth black leather.

Still, the wavy, linear pattern present on Vol. 9 remains through idents in the leather. Contrasting this stark black leather panel are white details on the knit internal bootie, the lace set, and the heel tab. Inside, the sneaker combines Boost and Lightstrike for lightweight energy return and comfort on the court, while the rubber outsole below comes with a grippy traction pattern.
The adidas Harden Vol. 9 Core Black Warm Vanilla will release on July 9, 2025, through adidas and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is $160. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via adidas

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com