BEHIND THE DESIGN

Russell Westbrook has made history by “owning the chaos” on the court, so it makes sense that the introduction of his second signature shoe, the Why Not Zer0.2, reveals a union of expressive colors, textures, and patterns. The lead colorway, “Future History,” was inspired by Westbrook looking back on his youth, including the various team colors he’s worn since high school. The shoe is also an ode to today’s youth, who will become our future leaders.

To arrive at the WN0.2 “Future History,” Jordan Brand designers worked with Westbrook in Oklahoma City, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and San Francisco whenever he had more than a day off. The moment he first saw the “Future History” colorway, he threw another shoe off the table and told the team, “This is the one.”

The “Future History” color-blocking and materials highlight the WN0.2’s performance qualities. There’s a grid-like, protective texture on the tongue and collar, a debossed pattern on the quarter (with hidden “Why Not” logos), a woven finish on the midfoot strap, breathable mesh on the forefoot, and injected TPU for the heel counter. The outsole has concentric circle patterns for multi-directional traction and references Westbrook’s number, 0. It also has a diagram of a “perfect strike” in bowling, a nod to one of Westbrook’s favorite off-court activities, as well as the size tag that’s typically inside the shoe.

At the heel of the left shoe, an external tag highlights the “Future History” color palette seen throughout the vibrant shoe. This external tag will also be on future colorways of Westbrook’s WN0.2, which focus on important people in Westbrook’s life, including his family and fans.

Each shoe has a black patch on the medial midsole for Westbrook’s written tribute to his late friend, KB3. The heel tabs of each shoe also have Westbrook’s signature, while the left heel has the Westbrook logo, the right heel has the Jumpman logo, and both shoes have his family crest on the interior of each tongue.

The “Future History” Why Not Zer0.2 represents the next chapter in the innovative Russell Westbrook signature footwear line.