Amanda Knapp
Paul George, also known as 'PG13', is an NBA player known for his smooth and steady gameplay. George has had a long history with Nike, signing with them in 2017 and releasing his first signature shoe, the PG 1, in the same year. Since then, he has released several signature shoes with Nike, including the PG 2, PG 3, PG 4, PG 5, and PG 6. However, his signature line with Nike came to an end in 2023, and George has since been seen wearing other shoes on the court, including the Nike Kobe IV Protro and the GT Cut Academy silhouette.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| First signature shoe | Nike PG 1 |
| Debut of first signature shoe | September 2016 |
| Second signature shoe | PG 2 |
| Release date of second signature shoe | February 2018 |
| Third signature shoe | PG 3 |
| Fourth signature shoe | PG 4 |
| Fifth signature shoe | PG 5 |
| Sixth signature shoe | PG 6 |
| Current shoe | GT Cut Academy silhouette |
| Shoe worn in the last game against Minnesota Timberwolves | Nike G.T. |
| Shoe worn in the game against New York Knicks | PG 4 |
| Shoe worn in 2024 | Nike Kobe IV Protro |
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What You'll Learn
Paul George's first signature shoe with Nike
The PG 1 was designed to complement George's game, offering comfort and locked-down stability. It quickly became one of the most popular shoes in the NBA. George is quoted as saying, "The game just slows down because of my focus on both ends. I can just take control." This sentiment is echoed in the design of the shoe, which features a flexible Nike Air Dot Weld Strobel with a full-length Air unit for a comfortable and bouncy feel.
The success of the PG 1 was followed by the PG 2, released in February 2018, which introduced a radical redesign. The PG 2 was also popular among NBA players, and George followed it up with the PG 2.5, which brought back the beloved midfoot strap. The subsequent models, the PG 3, PG 4, PG 5, and PG 6, were considered relatively underwhelming in comparison to the first two designs.
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The PG 1's popularity in the NBA
Paul George's first signature shoe with Nike, the PG 1, was released in September 2016, marking the player's seventh season in the NBA. The PG 1 quickly became one of the most popular shoes in the NBA. The shoe featured a lightweight, low-cut design with Zoom Air cushioning and mid-foot straps. The popularity of the PG 1 can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, Paul George's own style of play as one of the best two-way players in the game influenced the design of the shoe, making it well-suited for versatile players. The PG 1 offered a comfortable and bouncy feel, perfect for those who need to be well-positioned to make extra passes, cut through the lane, or nail pull-up jumpers.
Additionally, the PG 1 benefited from George's personal touches, such as incorporating his daughter's birthday or referencing the titanium rod inserted into his right leg after a severe injury in 2014. These personal details created a connection between the player and his fans, contributing to the shoe's popularity. The timing of the PG 1's release also played a role in its success. With Nike taking a cautious approach to signing deals, the PG 1 filled a gap in the market, especially with competitors like Adidas and Under Armor.
The shoe's popularity was further enhanced by its performance and aesthetic appeal. The PG 1 introduced a radical redesign, and its subsequent versions, the PG 2 and PG 2.5, built on this success, with the PG 2.5 bringing back the beloved midfoot strap. However, the PG 3 saw a dip in popularity, despite solid performance reviews and aesthetics. Overall, the PG 1's popularity in the NBA can be attributed to a combination of factors, including Paul George's stellar playing style, the shoe's performance and design, personal touches, and strategic release timing within the competitive landscape of signature sneakers.
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The PG 2's redesign
Paul George's second signature shoe, the PG 2, was released in February 2018, marking a significant redesign for the star two-way player. This redesign introduced a fresh look and feel to the shoe, building upon the success of its predecessor, the PG 1, which had become one of the most popular shoes in the NBA.
The PG 2s boasted a bold and innovative design, incorporating various features to enhance performance and comfort on the court. One notable aspect of the redesign was the introduction of a new colourway, offering a visually appealing alternative to the original PG 1 colour options. The exact colour scheme of the PG 2s varied depending on the specific colourway chosen, with some featuring bold colours and others opting for a more subtle approach.
In terms of construction, the PG 2s retained the high-quality materials and craftsmanship that Nike is known for. The upper of the shoe was crafted from premium materials, ensuring durability and a secure fit. The midsole and outsole utilised innovative cushioning technologies, providing optimal impact protection and energy return with each step. This advanced cushioning system was a key feature of the redesign, enhancing the shoe's performance characteristics.
Additionally, the PG 2s incorporated a dynamic lacing system that provided a secure and customisable fit for players. This lacing system not only ensured a locked-in feel but also contributed to the shoe's overall aesthetic, creating a distinctive look on the court. The collar and tongue of the shoe were also carefully designed to provide optimal ankle support and a comfortable fit, allowing players to move with confidence and stability.
The PG 2s redesign was well-received by both players and fans, with many praising the shoe's performance capabilities and stylish appearance. The shoe built upon the foundation laid by the PG 1s, showcasing Nike's commitment to innovation and performance enhancement. Despite the eventual release of subsequent models in the PG line, the PG 2s remain a notable entry in Paul George's signature shoe series, reflecting his influence and impact on the court.
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The PG 3's performance and aesthetic
Paul George's third signature shoe, the PG 3, received solid performance reviews and was praised for its appealing aesthetic. However, it was less of a hit compared to its predecessors, the PG 1 and PG 2, which were wildly popular among NBA players.
The PG 3's performance can be attributed to its design, which prioritised comfort and flexibility. The shoe is said to have provided a "bouncy" feel, allowing players like George to feel like they are "moving on clouds". This is likely due to the combination of a flexible Nike Air Dot Weld Strobel and a full-length Air unit. Such a design is especially beneficial for versatile, two-way players like George, who require agility and smooth movement on the court.
In terms of aesthetics, the PG 3 maintained the sleek and stylish look characteristic of the PG line. The shoe featured a low-cut silhouette, which likely contributed to its lightweight and agile appearance. While the exact colourways of the PG 3 are not specified, the PG line has generally been known for its bold and vibrant colour combinations, often reflecting George's personality and style.
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George's post-Nike shoe choices
Paul George's contract with Nike ended in 2024, bringing his signature line with the brand to a close. The line was launched in 2017 and included the popular PG 1, PG 2, and PG 2.5, as well as the less successful PG 3, PG 4, PG 5, and PG 6.
In November 2022, before the official end of his contract, George started wearing shoes from the Nike Kobe line, a brand he had worn before his signature line with Nike. After his contract ended, George continued to wear the PG 2s and has also been seen wearing the GT Cut Academy silhouette.
Fans of the PG line were disappointed to see it come to an end, with some seeking out similar alternatives. Suggestions included the Curry 11, the LeBron 20/21, and the Nike Kobe line.
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Frequently asked questions
Paul George has a signature line of basketball shoes with Nike, starting with the PG1 in 2017. However, he has also been seen wearing the Nike Kobe IV Protro shoes, as he is a fan of Kobe Bryant's sneaker line.
It seems that Paul George's contract with Nike ended in 2023, and the company chose not to renew it. This means he no longer wears his own signature sneakers and has been seen wearing Kobe sneakers instead.
The PG1 was Paul George's first signature shoe with Nike, released in September 2016.
The latest signature shoe in the Paul George line is the PG 6, which was released in 2023.
