The new LeBron 12 shoes were scheduled to hit the market on Wednesday in China, but Nike release dates 2014 statement revealed that the company decided to delay the release of the shoe.
The new LeBron James' signature sneaker has been making waves over the past several weeks, but the company is expected to draw criticism after failing to release the shoe on time.
In a Nike release dates 2014 statement, the company said that they decided to move the LeBron 12 release date due to a cosmetic issue. The shoe was supposed to hit shelves on Oct. 1 in China and Oct. 11 in other countries, but Nike said that it will be released at a later date.
"Product quality is a priority for Nike," Nike said in a statement via ESPN. "Due to a small cosmetic issue with some of the LeBron 12 shoes, we have delayed the initial retail launch that was scheduled for China on Oct. 1, and the global launch that was scheduled for Oct. 11. We will communicate an update on the retail date as soon as possible."
According to ESPN, Nike declined to give more details about the "cosmetic issue" that caused the delay, but sources indicated that it has something to do with James' recent moves - his return to the Cleveland Cavaliers and change of number.
The production of the LeBron 12 shoes reportedly started before James announced his decision to return to Cleveland. As a result, the company has already manufactured sneakers with "LRJ.06" stitching and "6" printed on one of the pods.
It could be the issue because James has switched back to his old No. 23 jersey number following his return to the Cavs.
But despite the Nike release dates 2014 delay, SportsOneSource analyst Matt Powell said in an interview that the LeBron 12 shoes will still make a lot of noise once it hits the market later this month or in early November.
"This likely won't be a major issue for Nike," Powell said. "They'll miss out on some business now, but LeBron fans will buy them when they do come out."
James was expected to wear his new signature sneaker during the Wine and Gold scrimmage on Wednesday, but the four-time Most Valuable Player was seen wearing a LeBron Soldier VIII shoes.
