Short answer
The LeBron Soldier ran from 2007 (Zoom Soldier) to 2020 (Soldier XIV). Nike traces its straps back to the LeBron Zoom 20-5-5 of 2005. Highlights from Nike’s history: the Soldier X (2016) was Nike Basketball’s first laceless performance shoe, the Soldier VIII came in a FlyEase version, and the Soldier XI (2017) used four straps. No Soldier has followed the XIV.
Every Soldier, from Nike’s history
Years and notes from Nike’s LeBron Soldier history
| Model | Year | Note from Nike |
|---|---|---|
| Zoom 20-5-5 (forerunner) | 2005 | Where the straps began |
| Zoom Soldier | 2007 | Zoom Air |
| Soldier II | 2008 | The straps were removed |
| Soldier III | 2008 | Zoom Air in the heel and forefoot |
| Soldier IV | 2010 | First lion’s head on the tongue |
| Soldier V | 2011 | Air Max unit under the heel |
| Soldier VI | 2012 | Asymmetrical ankle strap, Hyperfuse upper |
| Soldier VII | 2012 | |
| Soldier VIII | 2014 | FlyEase version for laceless entry |
| Soldier IX | 2015 | Straps plus Flywire in the forefoot |
| Soldier X | 2016 | Nike Basketball’s first laceless performance shoe |
| Soldier XI | 2017 | Four straps |
| Soldier XII | 2018 | |
| Soldier XIII | 2019 | Two straps with a slip lock |
| Soldier XIV | 2020 | Laces plus a toggle system |
Source: Nike, LeBron James Soldier shoe history.
What the straps did
A strap pulls the upper tight over the midfoot or ankle, on top of what the laces do. That gives lockdown without lacing the top eyelets painfully tight. The laceless Soldier X went further and used straps alone, which also made it easy to slip on.
If you want a Soldier today
-
01Collectors
LeBron Soldier (older stock)
Best for: fans who want the strapped LeBron or a specific Soldier number
- Years
- 2007 to 2020
- Models
- 14
- Search the exact number and colorway
- Check the strap Velcro and sole condition on used pairs
For a current team shoe at a lower price, the LeBron Witness fills that role now. The full flagship list is on every LeBron shoe in order.
Questions people ask
What was the last LeBron Soldier?
The Soldier XIV, which Nike says began releasing on August 1, 2020 in Greater China. It combined laces with a toggle system.
Why are they called Soldiers?
They were built as a tough team shoe with straps for lockdown, a different job from the cushioned flagship. Nike traces the idea back to the Zoom 20-5-5 in 2005.
Was there a laceless LeBron Soldier?
Yes. Nike says the Soldier X (2016) was Nike Basketball’s first laceless performance shoe. The Soldier VIII also had a FlyEase version for easier entry.
Can you still buy LeBron Soldiers?
Only as older stock or resale. Search by the exact number and check the size chart and condition on the listing.
Sources
Last reviewed October 29, 2026. Models, colorways and listings change; check the size chart and product details on the listing before you buy.