Its Flywire construction that used thin, strong nylon fibers to support the upper, had debuted a year prior in the Nike Hyperdunk (the silhouette Bryant wore in Beijing in 2008).

The tech in the original shoe was futuristic for its time. In today’s diversely talented league, low-top shoes are now worn by every type of player, from shifty point guards to rangy forwards to powerful bigs. It wasn’t the first low-cut Nike hoops shoe (the 1972 Bruin takes that distinction), but its impact on the game was tremendous, as it linked the low-top movement with a single player. And, in an interesting twist from Nike, you can pick up Kobe’s new shoe at two different price points: $180 for the Nike Zoom Kobe VII Supreme System, which comes with both Fast and Strong inserts, and $140 for the Nike Zoom Kobe VII System, without the Attack Strong insert.Originally released in 2009, the Nike Zoom KOBE IV proved that a light, low-cut profile could still give optimum support at the game’s highest level. The VIIs also feature a raised skin pattern meant to embody Kobe’s predator-like instincts, and special graphic patterns will live “under the skin” in special colorways, which we’ve been told will be in the form of the Leopard, Great White Shark, Poison Dart Frog and Grey Wolf. The Strong offers a full-length Cushlon midsole and power-stretch material that provides comfort and breathability. The Kobe VII’s two options give players the chance to maximize their game: whether it’s “Attack Fast” or “Attack Strong.” The difference? The Fast insert (above in Laker gold) has a Phylon midsole with Nike Zoom units in the forefoot and heel, providing lightweight responsiveness and a sock-like fit (no traditional tongue). The Nike Kobe VII System Supreme drops December 22, and features customizable, interchangeable ankle and midsole support inserts. The haters say Kobe Bryant’s lost a step, but his shoe game is still as deadly as ever.

Nike zoom kobe