After pulling out all the stops for last year’s Kobe System, Nike Basketball had their work cut out for them in preparation for this year’s reprisal. The resulting follow up, the Kobe 8 System, builds on last year’s success, factoring in every dimension of Kobe Bryant’s world-class game to create the lowest and lightest performance basketball shoe that Kobe has ever graced the hardwood with.
Weighing in at under 10 ounces, the Kobe 8 is swathed in snakeskin print, inspired by KB8′s on-court alter ego, the Black Mamba, and sports a lightweight, full-length Lunarlon midsole, which generates the cushioning that a high-flying player like Kobe needs to support his game. Thanks to the low-profile build of that midsole, the sneakers hug the court for added stability, a feature that Kobe was adamant about including in the new shoe. The all-important outsole combines herringbone with a snake scale-inspired pattern for maximum durability and traction, while the heel counter ensures a secure, locked down fit.
The Kobe 8 System will be available globally and on Nike.com beginning December 20, 2012, All-NBA skills and death stare not included.
