Nike Debuts the KOBE 8 SYSTEM

Nike‘s latest performance offering updates Kobe Bryant‘s on-court arsenal with the unveiling of the KOBE 8 SYSTEM. Embodying speed, precision, vision and versatility, these elements of the Black Mamba’s game are all found unanimously in the development of Bryant’s new signature. The end result is his lightest and lowest sneaker to date, tipping the scales at a mere 9.6 oz in a US men’s size 9.

Bryant’s association with snakes continue through a visually stimulating graphical upper, partially inspired by next year’s Year of the Snake in the Chinese Zodiac calendar. This pattern comes together with the unveiling of Nike’s innovative textile, Nike Engineered Mesh. The material offers a dynamic and lightweight mesh, all while maintaining supreme breathability. Together this allows for natural and flexible movement that has become so important within footwear design of the modern times.

A Lunarlon midsole ensures lightweight cushioning with a one-millimeter rubber outsole — utilizing both a classic herringbone and snake scale-inspired pattern — that effectively maximizes traction.

A release is set for December 20, 2012 in a signature black/sulfur colorway while a python version will drop January 12, 2013 in Greater China, and several weeks later, on February 2 in North America.

As is the case with several marquee performance products of recent times, the KOBE 8 SYSTEM will be available for customization and purchase on NIKEiD starting December 8 (availability begins on December 20). There, consumers will be able to choose four separate midsole options including Lunarlon, Nike Zoom, KOBE+ 8 SYSTEM SP+ (includes a Nike+ Sports Kit), and the KOBE 8 SYSTEM EN+ (for people with the Nike+ Sport Kit already).

For more information and insights from designer Eric Avar, check out Nike’s official release.