NIKE kobe 8 system

NIKE kobe 8 systemimage © designboom

designboom was in LA for the launch of NIKE‘s kobe 8 system. taking into NBA player kobe bryant’s game to develop the basketball performance footwear, the upper is made from an innovative textile – nike engineered mesh (90% mesh) – of which the shoe’s lightness – it weights just 9.8 ounces – can be attributed. the selected material is tightly woven to offer strength and flexibility to the athlete, while maintaining 360 degrees of breathability. in addition, the no-sew, synthetic overlays on the toe and lateral quarter panel provide support.

‘I’m always focused on improving my game, to perform at my best. I want my shoes to mimic the speed of my game,‘ kobe said. ‘by shaving fractions off the height and weight, it allows me to play faster with more control so I can maneuver across the court – I want to feel like I’m moving at the speed of light.’

the outsole measures one millimeterimage © designboom

kobe wanted the shoe to be an extension of his foot, mirroring his quick performance while staying lower to the ground, and worked together in close collaboration with NIKE performance footwear creative director eric avar and his team to achieve this. full-length lunarlon midsoles deliver lightweight, low-profile cushioning, affording greater stability. the one-millimeter rubber outsole combines classic herringbone with a snake scale influenced traction pattern and uses less rubber than traditional outsoles for lightweight durability and multi-surface traction. a 3D anatomical heel counter provides a sleek, locked down fit.

‘we’re always pushing the limits of kobe’s shoe to be faster, more precise, and to be modern. kobe’s big on being bold, aggressive, provocative and making an impact. working together, we’re on a never-ending quest for the perfect shoe for him. NIKE engineered mesh creates a dynamic fit that syncs around kobe’s foot to mimic the natural biomechanics, delivering security where he needs it,‘ says eric avar.

the footwear features a graphic snakeskin print which not only draws from kobe’s on-court alter ego the ‘black mamba’, but also from the 2013 chinese calendar’s animal, the snake.

tongue detailimage © designboom