Looking for the best Kobe shoes that will take your basketball game to the next level? Look no further! In this article, we'll dive into the top Kobe shoe models throughout the years. From the iconic Nike Zoom Kobe II to the stylish Adidas KB8 II, these shoes have become legends in their own right. Whether you're a die-hard Kobe fan or simply a lover of basketball, get ready to discover the kicks that will elevate your performance on and off the court. So lace up, because we're about to embark on a thrilling journey through the world of the best Kobe shoes ever created.
Nike Zoom Kobe II
The Nike Zoom Kobe II, released before the trend of lighter and lower shoes, remains one of the best-performing sneakers in the line. However, its design hasn't aged as well.
Designer Kenzo (Ken Link) played a significant role in creating this shoe. Kobe Bryant praised his talent and shared that they collaborated closely to develop a design that he genuinely liked.
The shoe provided ample cushioning with Zoom Air technology and had firm support through a lockdown strap and a plastic heel chassis. Additionally, it incorporated storytelling elements, such as a laser-cut diamond pattern graphic throughout. This graphic subtly represented his daughter, Natalia Diamante.
Nike Zoom Kobe 1
The Nike Zoom Kobe 1 featured increased cushioning to accommodate Bryant's recovery from knee injuries. Sacrificing some weight, Nike focused on providing more cushioning for added comfort.
The shoe proudly displayed Kobe's "Sheath" logo on the tongue. Inspired by the "Kill Bill" movie, which was one of Bryant's favorites, the logo resembled a sword holster. Throughout the season, Bryant channeled an attacking mentality, resulting in his greatest scoring season and his iconic 81-point game against Toronto.
Nike Zoom Kobe 3 ‘Prelude Misery' - Black/Mlt-Clr-Imprl Prpl-Kmqt
This unique and stunning colorway of the Nike Zoom Kobe 3 is beloved by fans due to its alluring design. It is part of the Prelude Pack, which celebrates Kobe Bryant's journey and achievements. The "Misery" colorway represents a specific chapter in Kobe's career while offering a contemporary aesthetic. It serves as a collector's item that bridges the gap between basketball heritage and modern style. It symbolizes Kobe's determination and legacy, making it a valuable addition to sneaker enthusiasts' collections that appreciate the fusion of sports and storytelling in footwear.
Nike Zoom Kobe 4 Protro ‘Carpe Diem' - Black/Del Sol-Varsity Purple
The Nike Zoom Kobe 4 Protro "Carpe Diem" pays tribute to Kobe Bryant's competitive spirit and basketball prowess. With its iconic design and the "Carpe Diem" theme, these sneakers honor Kobe's dedication to excellence. The Protro iteration updates the original Kobe 4 silhouette with modern performance enhancements, making them suitable for both on-court play and off-court style. The Nike Kobe 4 Protro "Carpe Diem" embodies the essence of seizing the moment, delivering a blend of history and innovation that resonates with sneaker enthusiasts appreciating both basketball heritage and contemporary fashion.
Nike Zoom Kobe V
Building upon the enormous success of the Zoom Kobe IV, Nike made some slight tweaks and upgrades to the fifth model. The most notable change came from the fully synthetic "Skinwire" upper and a lower collar height.
Kobe Bryant emphasized that functionality was the primary focus. The decision to lower the shoe's height wasn't arbitrary but instead aimed to enhance functionality. By cutting out an ounce and reducing weight, Nike achieved a lower profile without sacrificing functionality or comfort.
As with the Kobe IV, Bryant wore the Kobe V to the NBA Finals, winning back-to-back championships and securing his fifth ring.
Nike Zoom Kobe 1 Protro '81 Points' - White/Black/Varsity Purple
The Nike Kobe 1 Protro "White/Varsity Purple" pays homage to the impact and style of basketball legend Kobe Bryant. With its classic design and a nod to the original Kobe 1 silhouette, these sneakers represent both historical significance and modern innovation. The Protro iteration blends nostalgia with updated performance features, making them an ideal choice for on-court play and off-court fashion. The Nike Kobe 1 Protro "White/Varsity Purple" serves as a tangible connection to Kobe's basketball journey while embracing contemporary sneaker culture. Furthermore, it commemorates his historic 81-point game against Toronto, making it an essential addition for those celebrating his legacy and expressing themselves through their sneaker collection. A must-have for loyal Kobe Bryant fans.
Nike Zoom Kobe 6 Protro ‘Mambacita Sweet Sixteen' - Black/White/Gold
The Nike Zoom Kobe 6 Protro "Mambacita Sweet Sixteen" is a powerful tribute to the enduring legacy of Kobe and Gianna Bryant. With its poignant design and unique details, these sneakers honor the memory of Kobe's daughter and her basketball journey. The Protro iteration enhances the original Kobe 6 silhouette with modern performance features, making them suitable for both on-court play and off-court style. The Nike Zoom Kobe 6 Protro "Mambacita Sweet Sixteen" symbolizes love, inspiration, and basketball excellence. It stands as a meaningful addition to any sneaker collection, paying tribute to the Bryant family's impact and contributions to the game.
Zoom Kobe 6 “Wolf Grey” (2011)
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The Nike Kobe 6 "Wolf Grey," released in 2011, showcased a metallic, futuristic, Star Trek-like design with hints of Y2K vibes. It featured a bold serpentine texture, with a metallic silver snake-like pattern emphasized by white details. The shoe also had a "VENOMENON" logo on the toe, embodying Kobe's aggressive playing style.
The Kobe 6s incorporated Flywire technology for a customized fit and Zoom Air in the midsole and forefront for optimal responsiveness. Known for its performance capabilities, this shoe exuded a unique aesthetic.
SHOP NOW AT GOAT, $502
Zoom Kobe 6 “Dark Night” (2011)
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Inspired by superhero movies, the Nike Zoom Kobe 6 "Dark Night" paid homage to the acclaimed film "The Dark Knight." Released in 2011, this shoe featured a dark gray upper with black polyurethane snake-scale detailing. The signature blue swoosh glowed in the dark, adding a striking touch. The shoe also displayed red Kobe branding and a gray leather tongue.
This release was accompanied by a Joker-themed counterpart called "Chaos," showcasing Kobe's representation of Gotham through his sneaker line.
SHOP NOW AT GOAT, $2,002
Kobe 8 “Green Glow” (2013)
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For Kobe Bryant's signature line, the Kobe 8 "Green Glow" from 2013 embraced a beach-themed colorway. Its design incorporated a reptilian theme, symbolizing Bryant's "Black Mamba" mentality. The tongue tag depicted a snake wrapped around Kobe's personal logo, adding a touch of artistry. The engineered mesh upper displayed a Green Glow/Mineral Teal snakeskin print.
The shoe featured Laser Orange accents on branding elements and the outsole, creating an eye-catching contrast. The overall aesthetic evoked a beach vibe, reminiscent of enjoying a Tequila on the beach.
SHOP NOW AT GOAT, $302
Kobe 10 GS “Hero” (2015)
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Released in 2015, the Kobe 10 GS "Hero" drew inspiration from superheroes, showcasing a vibrant and colorful design. The shoe's upper featured a purple lightning strike static electricity pattern, creating a visually striking effect. The gradient between purple and orange added a captivating element. The midsole boasted a Lunarlon cushioning system, providing optimal comfort on the court. Additionally, it incorporated a Zoom Air Unit for responsive cushioning.
This release was particularly significant as it coincided with Kobe's 20th and final NBA season, aligning with the superhero theme.
SHOP NOW AT GOAT, $47
Kobe 11 GS Team USA (2016)
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Kobe Bryant's participation in two gold medal-winning Olympic rosters (2008 and 2012) inspired the creation of the Kobe 11 GS Team USA colorway. Released in July 2016 to support the Olympic Team, the shoe had a patriotic red, white, and blue color scheme. It possessed a lightweight build and featured elements that paid tribute to Kobe, such as four stitch marks on the left heel symbolizing the sutures used in his Achilles surgery.
To represent the Olympic years in which Kobe won gold medals, the shoe had the numbers 8 and 12 etched into the right heel.
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Kobe 11 “Mambacurial” (2016)
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As part of his farewell tour in 2016, Kobe Bryant released the "Mambacurial" elite colorway. Its gradient pink and green color scheme, combined with breathable woven Flyknit fabrication, resulted in a visually appealing design. The medial side featured an oversized 'NIKE' logo, while a mountain-like translucent Action Green overlay accentuated the midsole. The shoe paid homage to the Mercurial soccer boot, which inspired its aesthetic.
The "Mambacurial" represented a fusion of style and performance, capturing Kobe's unique taste in footwear.
SHOP NOW AT GOAT, $1,032
Nike Kobe VII (System)
Innovation and experimentation characterized the Nike Kobe VII (System). Nike deviated from the tried and tested formula of its previous designs, introducing a modular concept called the "Kobe System." This concept allowed wearers to switch between two insoles, each with a different tongue. One option featured a low-top design, while the other utilized a floppy Velcro-based sleeve. However, this more expensive shoe didn't advance the line significantly, resulting in Nike abandoning the "System" idea the following season.
Kobe 11 Elite Low “Achilles Heel” (2016)
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The Kobe 11 Elite Low "Achilles Heel" paid tribute to Kobe Bryant's Achilles heel injury, which was a significant challenge he faced. It embodied the Mamba Mentality and emphasized the importance of how one responds to obstacles. Released during his farewell tour, this shoe had a black and red gradient colorway, symbolizing Kobe's season-ending surgery in 2013 and referencing the Greek god Achilles.
SHOP NOW AT GOAT, $2,457
Nike Kobe 9 (low)
The Nike Kobe 9 Low, often overshadowed by the high-cut Kobe 9 Elite, was worn less frequently on the court due to Kobe Bryant's injury-plagued seasons. However, collectors hold it in high regard for its Flyknit material and sharply sculpted carbon fiber sides. It was the model Kobe wore when he surpassed Michael Jordan for third place on the NBA's all-time scoring leaders list.
Nike Kobe X Elite (high)
For a second consecutive season, Kobe abandoned the low-top silhouette, instead opting for the ultra-high Kobe 10 Elite. This shoe, characterized by a fully Flyknit upper, provided increased flexibility and conformity compared to its predecessor, the Kobe 9. Even two seasons after its release, players still wear the Kobe X Elite due to its performance capabilities.
Nike Kobe 9 Elite (high)
As Kobe recovered from his Achilles tear injury in 2013, he launched one of the most groundbreaking sneakers of his Nike collection, the Kobe 9. Departing from the low-top signature models, this shoe featured a much higher cut. Nike highlighted Kobe's relentless recovery journey by having other players debut the sneaker while he was still out due to injury. The Kobe 9 was the first Nike basketball shoe to incorporate Flyknit material and is particularly remembered for its unique heel design, with nine stitched lines representing each threaded stitch from Bryant's Achilles surgery.
Nike Kobe AD
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The Nike Kobe AD, short for "Kobe After Death," was the first post-retirement signature sneaker released by Kobe Bryant. Designed with speed, cushioning, and lockdown in mind, the shoe maintained the key principles that defined the previous low-top Kobe sneakers. The AD gained popularity on the court and was adopted by NBA players, including DeMar DeRozan and Isaiah Thomas, who received custom pairs from Nike.
Nike Kobe 9 Elite ‘Masterpiece' - Black/Metallic Silver-Volt-Bright Crimson
The Nike Kobe 9 Elite "Masterpiece" is considered the pinnacle of the Nike Kobe sneaker series. It showcases exceptional talent and the basketball legacy of Kobe Bryant. With its innovative design and craftsmanship, this sneaker pays tribute to Kobe's unique skill set. The "Masterpiece" iteration combines performance and style, making it suitable for both on-court dominance and off-court fashion. The shoe serves as a testament to Kobe's artistry on the basketball court, making it a highly sought-after addition to sneaker collections for those who recognize his influence and contributions to the game.
Nike Kobe AD NXT 360 FastFit (2019)
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The Nike Kobe AD NXT 360 FastFit, released in 2019, featured a tie-dye textile upper designed to enhance speed, movement, and agility. This shoe incorporated innovative lacing, a contoured mesh inner layer, and a solid stabilizing heel clip. Its color-pop accents, narrative detailing, and signature Nike swoosh added to its overall dynamic aesthetic. The Kobe AD NXT 360 FastFit represents the unique creativity Kobe brought to his shoe designs.
SHOP NOW AT GOAT, $351
Nike Kobe 8 Protro ‘Halo' - White/White/White
The Nike Kobe 8 Protro "Triple White" from the Kobe "Halo" collection represents the fusion of basketball excellence and sleek style. With its clean white-out colorway and modern design, this sneaker pays homage to Kobe Bryant's legacy while adding a contemporary twist. The Protro iteration combines the iconic Kobe 8 silhouette with updated performance features, making it suitable for both on-court play and off-court fashion. The Nike Kobe 8 Protro "Triple White" stands out as a symbol of basketball greatness and urban culture, making it a standout addition to any sneaker collection for those who appreciate a harmonious blend of sports heritage and streetwear aesthetics.
Kobe 11 Elite Low “Achilles Heel” (2016)
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Life is filled with obstacles and challenges, and Kobe Bryant faced his own Achilles heel injury. However, he believed that the key lies in how one responds to these challenges—a true embodiment of his Mamba Mentality. During his farewell tour in 2016, Kobe released the "Achilles Heel" edition of the Kobe 11 Elite Low. This shoe featured a black and red gradient colorway, honoring the Greek god Achilles and acknowledging Kobe's season-ending surgery. It served as a powerful testament to Kobe's resilience and determination.
SHOP NOW AT GOAT, $2,457
Kobe Mentality “Black Red” (2017)
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Released in 2017, the "Black Red" Kobe Mentality shoes stand out as one of the most notable Kobe releases to date. These shoes are part of the Kobe Mentality series, known for their basketball lifestyle aesthetic and bold graphic prints. The "Black Reds" feature a blackish gray base with red and yellow overlays, adding striking visual elements. The silver Nike swoosh and Kobe's Shozoku logo with a marbled outsole complete the design, staying true to Kobe's unique style.
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UNDFTD x Nike Zoom Kobe 5 Protro "Hall of Fame
To commemorate Kobe Bryant's induction into the NBA Hall of Fame in 2021, Nike collaborated with LA-based retailer Undefeated on a special edition of the Kobe 5 Protro. This "Hall of Fame" colorway features a gold-based upper with snakeskin detailing, purple accents, mismatched colored Swooshes on the sides, and other intricate details. The shoe pays tribute to Kobe's legacy as the Black Mamba, a perfect fit to honor his accomplishments.
Adidas The Kobe
Nick DePaula
Adidas partnered with Audi, which is located just an hour south of Adidas' headquarters in Germany, to introduce The Kobe, a redesigned signature sneaker that has a silhouette similar to the Audi TT and features a front design inspired by the grill of a car. The shoe even has brake lights and a spoiler on the heel, giving it a refined and polished look.
The marketing campaign showcased Bryant wearing the shoes and monochromatic tracksuits, along with modern furniture and motorcycles. The shoe also debuted Bryant's signature logo, known as "Frobe" by fans, which is a side portrait silhouette that incorporates his sculpted afro hairstyle from that time.
Nike Zoom Huarache 2K4
Courtesy Nike
After signing with Nike in 2003, Bryant took a trip with now-CEO Mark Parker and Nike designers Tinker Hatfield and Eric Avar to explore various sources of inspiration for the shoe.
"The first meeting with the 2K4," Bryant said, "as soon as I started to talk about the great white shark and the sleekness of the design that I wanted to incorporate, he understood immediately."
For Avar, the Huarache 2K4 presented an opportunity to redefine Nike's perspective on modern design, as the early 2000s had become saturated with gimmicks and visible cushioning systems.
Bryant became the face of Nike's new innovation and wore the 2K4 throughout his first season with the brand, most notably during the 2004 All-Star Game in Los Angeles and the 2004 NBA Finals.
Adidas EQT Elevation
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During Bryant's first trip to the NBA playoffs, he wore the Elevation in a simple black and white colorway. However, its most memorable moment came during the 1997 slam dunk contest, when Bryant wore a bold all-purple pair with his warm-up top still on. This showcased his confidence and flair, which had come to define his early years in the league. Bryant won the contest and continued to wear the unique Adidas design throughout the rest of the season.
Nike Hyperdunk
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Nike selected Bryant to debut the Hyperdunk months before the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, an event that presented a significant global opportunity for the brand as it introduced two new innovations: Flywire and Lunar Foam.
"What sold me on it was the technology," Bryant said. "I'm passionate about technology, and not many people would embrace such a new and boundary-pushing shoe."
The Hyperdunk's angular and linear design, along with its synthetic construction, went on to shape the next decade of basketball footwear, with Bryant leading the charge. Nike's first viral video featured Bryant leaping over a speeding Aston Martin on top of a parking garage, which helped make the Hyperdunk one of Nike's most successful basketball sneakers.
Adidas KB8
Courtesy Adidas
By his second season in the league, Bryant already had his own signature shoe. The renamed "Feet You Wear" model combined his initials and jersey number, and the striking black and white debut colorway quickly became one of Adidas' most sought-after basketball designs.
Iconic photos of Bryant wearing the KB8 while facing Michael Jordan, in his final season with the Bulls, at both the Forum in Los Angeles and the 1998 All-Star Game at Madison Square Garden solidified its place in sneaker history. Adidas continues to re-release the shoe under the name "Crazy 8," in both its original form and a modernized knitted version.
Adidas KB8 II
Courtesy Adidas
Although worn sparingly during the NBA's truncated 1998-99 lockout season, the KB8 II marked the beginning of a significant shift in the design of Bryant's post-millennium Adidas sneakers. Initially released in only three colors—black, white, and purple—the second KB8 model has since been relaunched by Adidas, receiving limited appreciation from today's collectors.
Adidas Top Ten 2010
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In the late 1970s, Adidas introduced the original Top Ten sneaker, which was worn by ten players from around the league. The shoe celebrated the best players of that era and incorporated input from the athletes themselves, including Rick Barry, Adrian Dantley, and Bob Lanier.
In 1996, when highlighting the best of the next generation, it was only fitting that Bryant was among the young players personally selected to wear the latest version of the Top Ten sneaker. Bryant sported a white, silver, and black pair for home games and a black, silver, and white pair for away games, as he embarked on his debut NBA season.
Nike Kobe AD
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Yes, the name "Kobe After Death" unmistakably refers to the post-retirement signature line, representing a slightly uncomfortable but undeniable first in sneaker history. Designed with the same principles of speed, cushioning, and lockdown that characterized previous low-top Kobe sneakers, the shoes were well-received on the court and gained popularity among NBA players. Nike provided custom pairs of the AD to top scorers such as Toronto's DeMar DeRozan and Cleveland's Isaiah Thomas.
Nike Kobe 7 "Invisibility Cloak"
The Nike Kobe 7 "Invisibility Cloak" took iridescent designs to a new level. While the shoe has no official ties to the Harry Potter series, many people drew a connection between its design and the iconic invisibility cloak worn by Daniel Radcliffe's character throughout the movies. The purple-based iridescent upper, with its color-shifting effect, makes these Kobe sneakers truly eye-catching.
Nike Zoom Kobe 4 "Chaos"
When the Nike Zoom Kobe 4 debuted in 2008, it was the first low-top silhouette in the Kobe line, marking a new era in basketball footwear and play style that is still seen today. Considered one of the greatest Kobe signature sneakers of all time, the "Chaos" colorway stands out as a favorite. With indirect references to The Dark Knight series and its combination of purple, grey, and red, this pair is a great choice.
Nike Kobe 7 System Christmas "Cheetah"
Originally released in Nike Basketball's Christmas Pack in 2011, this cheetah-themed Kobe 7 features a purple-based upper, volt accents, and red laces that tie the theme together. What makes this pair even more special, apart from its captivating colorway, is the fact that Kobe wore them on the court during the Christmas Game on December 25, 2011. This game marked the season opener for the partially locked-out 2011/2012 NBA season.
Mamba Mentality
As we celebrate Kobe Bryant Day on August 24, this guide serves as a tribute to his lasting legacy, taking you through the realm of his iconic sneakers. Commemorate his life and impact by stepping into the essence of Kobe's greatness every day with a pair of Nike Kobe Bryant shoes that transcend basketball, capturing his spirit and influence. From the latest releases to timeless classics, our curated selection ensures that you can embody Kobe's greatness.
With an impressive collection like this, it's no wonder that Kobe Bryant's signature shoes remain highly sought after by basketball enthusiasts and sneakerheads alike. From the iconic Nike Zoom Kobe II to the revolutionary Nike Kobe AD NXT 360 FastFit, each shoe represents the incredible skill, determination, and Mamba Mentality that Kobe brought to the game. Whether you're a die-hard fan of the Black Mamba or simply appreciate quality footwear, these shoes are a must-have addition to any collection. So lace up, channel your inner Kobe, and let these shoes elevate your game to new heights.
