First impression on the Nike 8 Kobe system

The Nike Kobe8 system, seems legit..... Some people say it looks more like a running shoe, I think it looks awesome..;D

I got these when I was back in my hometown, Penang, and decided why not do a review on these babies. =D 

TRACTION- So let's start from the bottom, Traction. Herringbone pattern intermixed with some storytelling traction, Not sure what to call them, but they kinda look like scales. The grooves are really deep, and does seem to offer really, really good grip. The rubber is very pliable however, and I don't think I will be hooping outdoors with these. Tried these on the spot, and the traction was very, very reliable, despite the floor being a bit dusty. these look like they will work wonderfully on an indoor court. 

CUSHIONING- cushioning seems to be in the form of lunarlon inserts in both shoes. I've tried lunarlon before, on a running shoe, and they were awesome, very good responsiveness and cushioning, but on a basketball shoe? I think this setup is going to work wonders, I hope it will. First impressions of it seem to indicate a very comfortable cushioned ride, will it offer the same amount of responsiveness as the previous zoom air units that are used, that remains to be seen. 

Support - There is a heel clip in place, and it really does a good job of securing your heel in place and preventing your ankles from rolling , the material along the heel area is also harder than you would expect, which makes an even better job of securing your heels. There's also a carbon fibre shank in place to help with torsion and arch support. It may seem not much, considering it's a low cut shoe, and mind you, it's one of the lowest cut I've ever seen in a basketball shoe, but it's actually very supportive and secure. Those who are used to mid and high cuts will need sometime getting used to it though.

Material and Ventilation- Engineered mesh and fuse, what more can you ask for? The fuse layer is underneath the mesh layer, and it provides all the support you need in a basketball shoe. The engineered mesh layer seems to do a good job of providing flexibility and seems to offer very good ventilation. Additional fuse like material has been provided along the toe area, and the eyelets of the shoe to offer more support. Ventilation looks like it won't be an issue as the shoe looks well ventilated from the inside.


FIT - They fit true to size, and feels very snug. Engineered mesh feels like a glove or sock thats wrapping around your feet. Wide footers might need to try them out or go a half size up, but if they don't mind a really tight snug fit, can consider getting these shoes at their size.


Conclusion
I was surprised when I first found out there wasn't going to be any zoom air units in the kobe8s, but they have far exceeded my expectations. Lunarlon cushioning feels good, very bouncy and responsive and yet cushions impacts well. They fit well and snug, are the lightest pair of kobes ever, and looks like it's going to be a very very good experience on court. Looking forward to using them on court soon!



-Leon-