It is easy to forget that Kobe started his sneaker story with adidas. His relationship with Nike is what we mostly focus on and celebrate today. But Kobe wore adidas exclusively when he was starting his career. Below is a guide to the shoes that released as part of the adidas and Kobe Bryant partnership.
KB8
Kobe Bryant wore an assortment of adidas sneakers during his rookie season in the NBA. adidas would give Bryant his own shoe for the start of his sophomore season. The KB8 would be Bryant’s first signature shoe ever. The sneaker has contoured edges, which helps keep the wearer as close to the ground as possible. There is a mesh lining, inner bootie, EVA midsole and Torsion system plate. At the time of its release, 1997, the KB8 was one of the most tech infused sneaker on the market. The KB8 would later be renamed the Crazy 8.
KB8 II
The adidas KB8 II was originally released in 1998. It was Kobe Bryant’s second signature shoe for adidas. Kobe was in his third season when the KB8 II was launched. By this time, Kobe was a star in the NBA. He was now the biggest star adidas had on its roster and one of the biggest stars in the NBA. There was a big marketing push put behind the sneaker. The KB8 II had a big, rounded midsole that offered increased stability and support. The shoe returned in 2014 and was renamed the Crazy 2.
KB8 III
The adidas KB8 III was released in 1999. It would be the final release in the KB8 series. Kobe’s career was continuing to grow in stature. The KB8 III is a bit simpler in design than the two previous models. The shoe had a smooth leather construction. It was a less tech heavy silhouette. It was clear by 1999 that Kobe Bryant was on the path to becoming one of the all-time greats. His value with adidas was getting stronger and more important to the Three Stripe brand. The future of the relationship seemed bright.
Kobe 1
The Kobe 1 from adidas is one of the boldest basketball sneakers of all-time. It is one of those shoes you either love or hate. The adidas Kobe 1 originally released in 2000. Kobe would wear the Kobe 1 when he won first ring, and they would also be worn during his pursuit of ring two in 2001. The Kobe 1 has a boxy appearance that was meant to be futuristic in its aesthetic. The shoe was inspired by the Audi TT Roadster. The shoe has a double foam collar, half shell toe, injection moulded EVA midsole, and a Torsion system.
The Kobe 2
The adidas Kobe 1 was a unique sneaker with a design that was outside the box. The 2 was even more risky with a design that many felt was unsightly. The shoe had its detractors when it was released in 2001. Kobe was supposedly so dissatisfied with the shoe that he would end his relationship with adidas shortly after its release. Kobe Bryant would eventually sign with Nike in 2003. The adidas Kobe 2 is now labeled the Crazy 2 for retro releases. The Kobe 2 is a historic sneaker for being Bryant’s last with adidas.
- Adam C. Better
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