Names come and fade in popular culture, but some reign eternal, and Bruce Lee is one admitted ruler. An unmatched martial artist, Lee’s philosophy and life continue to inspire and permeate various aspects of life. One of our favourite embodiments of his influence? Stylish Bruce Lee-themed sneakers.
Yellow, Black & Red
Most kicks in homage to the legend feature his defining yellow and black colour combination, inspired by his unforgettable jumpsuit in “Game of Death.” However, some designs delve deeper into his martial arts heritage by incorporating elements like the balanced yin and yang symbol or meaningful Chinese inscriptions. Prepare to be knocked off your feet by these magnificent Bruce Lee sneakers, which exquisitely salute the legendary martial artist.
RELATED: Bruce Lee Green Dragon LUX Sneakers For Fans Who Don’t Love Yellow & Black
20. Nike Dunk High “Reverse Goldenrod – Bruce Lee” (2022)
Nike’s Dunk High sneaker in the “Reverse Goldenrod” colourway isn’t an official nod to the martial arts icon, but one glance at the shoe and Bruce Lee is all we can think of.
The sneaker’s base is a bright “University Gold” colour, while the overlays offer that bold “Black” hue that is synonymous with the famous jumpsuit Lee wore while blazing across screens. Plus, there is a hint of red on the tongue label to allude to his famous scratch marks. This shoe wears its inspirations on its vamp, and we quite like it. It’s clear to see how these stunning sneakers earned their special moniker.
While it is undoubtedly missing all the little details that make official collaborations so special, the design of this Nike Dunk High still packs the necessary punch. You can score a pair from Farfetch for a reasonable $125 USD.
19. Vans X Bruce Lee Old Skool Shoes (2022)
There is no better inspiration to become a master of your craft than the legend that is Bruce Lee, and Vans understands this. Inspired by Bruce Lee’s compelling invitation to “Be Water, My Friend” Vans constructed this Old Skool kicker, which is sure to instil in you an ethos to master your skateboard trajectory.
Most of the shoe showcases a sleek black design comprising a canvas blend on the tongue and quarter panels, while supple suede adorns the heel counter, eyestays, and toe. The standout feature is, without a doubt, the print of Bruce Lee himself gracing the sneakers’ side. Splashes of yellow lend the design a real pick-me-up, while the outsoles eloquently carry Lee’s famous quote, adding another homage to the legend.
You can still score a pair on eBay if you weren’t fortunate enough to nab these when they hit the stores.
18. Air Jordan 1 “Enter the Dragon”
This concept sneaker design is a nod to Bruce Lee’s legendary movie “Enter the Dragon.” However, it opts to honour his popular colour scheme and allows the finer points of the sneaker to narrate the film’s tale.
The sneaker sports a golden dragon badge on the collar (a throwback to the remarkable dragon motif featured on most of the movie’s official posters), and golden Swooshes covered with Chinese inscriptions that read “Enter the Dragon”. Not stopping there, a visual representation of Bruce Lee graces the sneaker’s mid-panels. To complete the aesthetic, the customary Jumpman logo of Michael Jordan is replaced by a silhouette of Bruce Lee in his renowned jump-kick stance.
All things considered, this distinctive sneaker design captures Bruce Lee’s epic influence on martial arts cinema and demonstrates our enduring respect and admiration for his contributions, even after fifty years.
17. Feiyue 1920 FE Mid “Bruce Lee” (2022)
Feiyue’s 1920 FE Mid “Bruce Lee” is more than just your typical yellow and black sneaker. The design is a tribute to the legendary Bruce Lee’s life and philosophies, with stunning details that genuinely reflect his persona.
The shoes are heavily detailed: the canvas upper features embroidered nunchuck patterns around the sides and collar – a notable reference to Lee’s preferred weapon. In addition, you’ll also notice a woven tongue label brandishing his “core symbol,” an embroidered “Lee Little Dragon” patch, and red “Flying Man” stitching on the heel and outsole plug. The pair also sports Feiyue x Bruce Lee branding on the padded sock liner and even Chinese letterings on the laces spelling out “Lee Little Dragon.”
If you’ve been on the hunt for sneakers packed with unique details that celebrate Bruce Lee’s enduring legacy, your search should end with these. You can pick up a pair from the Feiyue website for $25.00 USD. However, make sure to browse their site for other cool sneaker designs inspired by the one and only Bruce Lee.
16. Vans x Bruce Lee Skate Half Cab (2022)
Further expanding upon their Bruce Lee collection, Vans unveiled the Skate Half Cab, which beautifully incorporates familiar Bruce Lee elements.
Beyond the distinct colour palette associated with the martial arts legend, the sneaker’s canvas and suede structure feature other subtle nods to Lee. You’ll find custom Half Cab patches and sole tread portraying the martial arts icon at his best- in action. Of course, Lee’s famous expression is also etched onto the shoe’s outsole, much like its counterpart. What’s more, a special insole features an image of Bruce Lee in his iconic jumpsuit. Honestly, who wouldn’t want to shred in a pair of sneakers this stylish?
Fortunately, you’re just a click away from owning a pair of these Bruce Lee sneakers. They’re available on StockX, starting at an affordable $41 USD, depending on your shoe size.
15. Under Armour Curry 11 Bruce Lee “Fire” (2023)
Basketball icon Steph Curry took a unique approach when he paid homage to martial arts legend Bruce Lee with his Curry 11 Bruce Lee ‘Fire’ edition. Rather than adopting the typical black and yellow theme associated with Lee, Curry opted for a strikingly different path.
His sneaker design draws inspiration from Bruce Lee’s deep connection to the elements. Intense shades of red dominate the sneakers, further accentuated by scale-like designs on the TPU overlays representing Lee’s birth year, the Year of the Dragon. To make the shoe really pop, it features bold yellow details throughout. But that’s not all – the shoe’s tongue subtly hosts a dynamic graphic alternating between a yin-yang symbol and Curry’s logo.
You can grab your pair of these eye-catching sneakers for $160 USD from the Under Amour website. And if you’re a Bruce Lee superfan or a dedicated sneakerhead, you might want to bag the whole Elements Pack, which includes the Curry 11 “Wind” and the Curry 1 FloTro Luxe “Earth.” Just a heads-up, though, there’s no sign yet of a water-themed Curry design, but it would be a fitting nod to Lee’s insightful “Be Like Water” mantra.
14. Air Jordan 4 “Reverse Bruce Lee”
Imagine reversing the familiar Bruce Lee colourway and placing it onto the Air Jordan 4 silhouette. Well, the result would manifest as the Air Jordan 4 “Reverse Bruce Lee”.
Imagine a shiny black patent leather upper, as slick as Bruce Lee’s martial arts moves. This dark backdrop primes the stage for flashes of vibrant yellow, highlighting the inner lining, netting, and eyelets. And, of course, the essential scratch marks found on Bruce Lee-linked shoes add the finishing touch.
Although this style remains just an idea at present, its essence can be found in the Air Jordan 4 Retro “Thunder,” released in 2023. With a few tweaks here and there, you could have your own unique and striking pair of kicks inspired by this bold concept.
13. CLOT x Nike “CLOTEZ” “Bruce Lee” (2023)
For their take on the Bruce Lee theme, the world-recognised streetwear label from Hong Kong took to the classic Nike Cortez to create something really special.
What sets this design apart is its impressive 3-in-1 feature. As is, it’s a stunning sneaker; disassemble it, and you’ve got yourself a chic yellow leather indoor shoe or a sleek matte black slip-on reminiscent of traditional Kung Fu footwear.
The uniquely tailored design also boasts a drawstring fastening system for the slip-on and artfully incorporates a Yin Yang symbol alongside Chinese characters “功” and “夫” (signifying Kung Fu) embroidered at the heel of the house shoe.
The packaging doesn’t disappoint either, boasting a unique box that showcases mesmerising ying yang-inspired colours. Plus, it playfully incorporates illustrations of martial artists who spell out the names “Nike” and “CLOT” in their dynamic motion.
Initially released in March 2023 with a price tag of $150 USD, these kicks can now be found on StockX and other similar resale platforms at reasonable prices starting from $113 USD.
12. Li-Ning Way of Wade 9 “Bruce Lee” (2023)
The Way of Wade 9 is one of the more unique basketball silhouettes on the market, and this intricate “Bruce Lee” design only makes it stand out even more.
There’s no mistaking the homage to the legendary martial artist on this one. You have his signature yellow and black colour scheme, an artistic interpretation of the red scratch marks from the epic fight scene in Enter the Dragon on the quarters, and you get stunning black and white images of Lee printed onto both the lateral and medial sides of the shoe.
If you agree that the Way of Wade 9 wears the theme well, you can grab your pair from GOAT for a low $144 USD.
11. BAIT x Bruce Lee x ASICS Onitsuka Tiger Colorado 85 “Legend” (2015)
In honour of what would have been the much-loved and dearly missed legend’s 75th birthday, a collaboration was born between the Bruce Lee Estate, BAIT and ASICS to create two unique pieces of footwear. The “Legend” design is one of the distinctive results of this inspired partnership. The collaboration seems natural when considering Bruce Lee’s penchant for rocking Onitsuka Tiger shoes.
The design features a premium “Yellow” nubuck upper, perfectly contrasted with “Black” boxed leather tiger stripes. A distinguishing feature of these sneakers is the strategically speckled black and yellow sole, which takes the design up a notch. Let’s not forget about its custom-made details – the sneakers boast an insole showcasing a unique Bruce Lee 75th Anniversary logo, and a recognisable Bruce Lee kickman motif – a subtle yet slick feature stitched delicately into the heel.
If you’ve yet to secure a pair, swing by StockX, where the prices for these coveted kicks start at just $128 USD.
RELATED: Is Nike Releasing A New Kobe 5 Protro “Bruce Lee” Sneaker?
10. BAIT x Bruce Lee x ASICS Onitsuka Tiger Corsair Jeet Kune Do (2015)
The Corsair Jeet Kune Do sneaker was also released in celebration of Bruce Lee’s 75th birthday.
Shaking off the ‘traditional’ yellow and black, the sneakers are decked out in a dashing black suede contrasted by premium navy leather, a nod to Lee’s iconic Kung Fu uniform. The detailing gets even better – a striking dragon graphic sits beautifully engraved on the sides. Let’s not overlook the signature “kickman” logo positioned on the tongue and heel and the memorable Bruce Lee 75th Anniversary logo stamped onto the insoles.
This pair is more appealing to me than the previously mentioned “Legend” pair. If they have caught your eye, too, you can purchase your own pair through StockX.
9. Air Jordan 1 Recon Satin “Bruce Lee”
It’s hard not to admire these stunning kicks from @reverse.land, specially crafted in honour of the martial arts maestro.
Much like most sneaker designs inspired by Bruce Lee, the AJ 1 Recon Satin “Bruce Lee” features a combination of vibrant yellow and black hues. However, the sneaker uses intricately detailed satin fabric on the toe box, heel, and overlay. This luxurious yellow fabric boasts a beautiful dragon motif, nodding to Lee’s famous film Enter the Dragon and his “Little Dragon” nickname. And if you dare to scratch up these beauties, the toe box cheekily reveals a red fabric underneath as a nod to Lee’s iconic scratch mark detailing.
If these stunning sneakers tempt you, be prepared to spend a pretty penny. They’re available on Reverse Land’s official site, with a hefty $1,200.00 USD price tag that reflects the high-quality design and intricate detailing.
8. Bait x Bruce Lee x Reebok Kamikaze 2 (2018)
BAIT seems to have found their niche in designing Bruce Lee-themed sneakers, and we definitely appreciate it, especially when they gift us with beautiful works of footwear art like the Reebok Kamikaze 2 X Bait X Bruce Lee.
These sneakers feature a yellow leather upper with black accents across its signature jagged stripe pattern, branding and outsole. Subtle details add character to the sneakers, including Bruce Lee’s name on the lateral toe area, his signature kick pose on the heel, red slash marks on the tongue’s pull tab, and graphic insoles showcasing the star himself.
For those who can’t resist the bold aesthetics of this design, you can add these kicks to your collection by securing a pair from StockX.
7. Li-Ning Yushuai 18 Ultra “Bruce Lee” (2024)
The Li-Ning Yushuai 18 Ultra “Bruce Lee” sneakers are yet another testament to basketball’s fondness for the Bruce Lee aesthetic.
In typical Bruce Lee sneaker fashion, the shoes sport a striking yellow upper with black accents. Various aspects of Bruce Lee’s legacy are snuggly woven into the design, such as the embroidered depiction of the martial arts master on the medial side, miniature Lee’s on the heel tab, and the red claw marks on the tongue tabs. To top it off, the ankle detail proudly displays Bruce Lee’s autograph, gracing this design with a touch of his immortal spirit.
Although it might not be straightforward to acquire Li-Ning sneakers if you’re based in the US, it is worth noting that the brand offers a sizeable assortment of Bruce Lee-inspired designs to cater to his vast fanbase. You can snag this particular model from Anto Sports or GOAT, though you should be prepared for a slightly higher price tag.
6. Nike Kyrie 3 “Mamba Mentality” (2017)
In 2017, basketball star Kyrie Irving worked with Nike to pay tribute to Kobe Bryant and Bruce Lee with the unique Kyrie 3 “Mamba Mentality” sneaker. The colourway was inspired by Irving’s win at a high school Nike Extravaganza tournament, where he sported Kobe’s Bruce Lee design. Irving developed a particular affection for the kicks, eventually inspiring his own take on it.
The sneaker features a mix of bright yellow and deep black, with four red slash marks reminiscent of its original inspiration. This shoe gracefully incorporates elements from both basketball giants: a snakeskin-inspired panel on the inside, which is a tribute to Kobe’s ‘Black Mamba’ nickname, and a Samurai cloth print on the outer side, a tip of the hat to Irving himself. The shoe is finished with a ‘Kyrobe’ logo (a blend of Kyrie and Kobe’s Nike signs) featured prominently on the tongue.
If you’re eager to own these tribute kicks, check out resale platforms like eBay or StockX.
5. Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Alternate Bruce Lee” (2020)
This variation of the Kobe design reinvents the iconic Bruce Lee theme, mirroring Lee’s iconic black and white attire in “Enter the Dragon”.
Borrowing from the original 2010 Kobe 5 “Bruce Lee” colourway, the black and white design cleverly adds in smidgeons of yellow accent. Plus, you will find it hard to miss the bold red scratch marks artfully smeared on the lateral forefoot as a homage to the martial arts legend.
While rumours of a fresh take on this alternate scheme circulated in 2023, these eye-catching kicks are still available on GOAT or StockX for those looking to infuse their sneaker collection with martial arts flair.
4. Off White x Air Jordan 1 Satin Lux “Bruce Lee”
Undeniably, this eye-catching design takes Bruce Lee’s iconic black and yellow palette to another level. This thoughtfully crafted sneaker, courtesy of @johnnyskicks, otherwise known as John Trottier, departs from the mundane to create something truly unique.
Drawing from the iconic elements of deconstructed design and the well-known branding of Off-White, Trottier puts forward a stunning design. But what really makes the pair stand out is the brilliant satin fabric, adorned with delicate oriental patterns and a soft sheen. The red satin swoosh, rendered in Off-White’s signature style, also provides a more discreet tribute to the iconic red scratches.
If you want luxury, this stunning Off White x Air Jordan 1 Satin Lux “Bruce Lee” is worth enquiring about from @johnnyskicks Instagram Page.
3. Nike Kobe 11 “Bruce Lee” (2016)
The Nike Kobe 11 Elite Low Bruce Lee is the second Nike Kobe shoe to feature a Bruce Lee theme. However, instead of just offering a typical yellow and black colourway, this shoe incorporates an almost ombre look across its knit upper.
The shoe’s low-top upper starts with a bright yellow FlyKnit at the toe, gradually transitioning to black as you approach the heel. On this dark backdrop, cleverly designed University Red scratch marks make their bold appearance.
This design is a creative twist on the classic Bruce Lee colour scheme and an absolute feast for the eyes. If you’re as drawn to this design as we are, try checking your size on resale platforms like StockX, GOAT, or eBay.
2. Nike Kobe 5 “Bruce Lee” (2010)
Kobe’s admiration for Bruce Lee is well documented; the basketball star embraced not just Lee’s filmography but also his philosophy and martial arts techniques. It’s fitting, then, that a number of his sneaker colourways were tributes to this unparalleled idol. Of course, the first of such tributes was the timeless Kobe 5 “Bruce Lee.”
This eye-catching pair of kicks wears the memorable yellow and black colour scheme that even the greenest Bruce Lee fan will instantly recognise. The four red slashes across the toes are a homage to the wounds Lee’s character bore from the unforgettable final fight in Enter the Dragon. Other subtle touches include Kobe’s autograph on the heel and the Mamba logo on the tongue.
Such a unique design proved to be a hit among shoe fanatics, so much so that, a decade later, Nike brought the design back to life in the form of its retro edition—the Protro, alongside an alternate colour variant. This stylish footwear can fetch up to $10,843 USD on StockX, a testament to its enduring popularity.
1. Onitsuka Tiger Tai Chi x Bait “Bruce Lee” (2018)
You don’t get more classic than this Onitsuka Tiger Tai Chi x Bait Bruce Lee sneaker, but their rarity makes these kicks even more special.
The sneaker design is pretty simple. Yellow leather upper with black accents and Bruce’s laser-etched signature on the heel. However, what makes them special is that they try to mirror the yellow and black Mexico 66s he wore in his iconic film “Game of Death.” The sneaker also comes with a custom wooden plaque and collector shoe box, which adds to this limited edition release’s overall value and exclusivity.
Only 100 numbered pairs of these sneakers were sold on Bruce Lee’s official online store. However, a second set (numbered out of 399) was also given to friends and family.
Sometimes, a pair from the second set will pop up for sale online, but pairs from the set of 100 are hardly ever available. You can search for your pair on resale platforms but be prepared to pay a premium for these highly sought-after sneakers.
RELATED: These Bruce Lee-inspired Air Jordan 35 “Dynasties” Sneakers Are A Beautiful Homage
So, what are your favourite pair of Bruce Lee sneakers of all time?
