Kobe Bryant’s Signature Shoe: Nike Zoom Kobe VII

With a new season comes an all-new Kobe Bryant signature shoe – his seventh to be exact. And today, Nike Basketball has officially unveiled the Nike Zoom Kobe VII. Releasing in two versions – System and System Supreme – you’ll have the choice between one or two interchangeable insert options.

The Nike Zoom Kobe VII System Supreme is a performance system allowing players to customize the shoe, switching ankle support and midfoot cushioning. With two interchangeable insert options, the System Supreme allows players to switch out the cushioning and ankle support to match their style of play.

ATTACK FAST: If a player’s game is based on speed, there is the Attack Fast insert that features a Phylon midsole with Nike Zoom units in the forefoot and heel for the ultimate in lightweight responsiveness. It also has a low-cut, power-stretch cuff that hugs the foot for support. Its sock-like fit eliminates the need for a traditional tongue and innersleeve, keeping the shoe lightweight.

ATTACK STRONG: For games that get intense and physical in the paint, there is the Attack Strong insert. It offers a full-length Cushlon midsole and an ankle cuff for a plush, comfortable ride with great support. The sensory cuffs are made of an engineered power-stretch material that is padded and perforated for comfort and ventilation.

These two midsole options allow players to customize footwear during practice or in a game to meet their performance needs. The Nike Zoom Kobe VII System Supreme offers similar performance fit and feel as the Kobe V and Kobe VI, but offers a different look and includes additional performance customization. In addition to the customizable insert options, next-generation Flywire technology provides lock-down support, a 3-D heel clip offers enhanced support, and a glass reinforced composite shank in the midsole gives responsive midfoot support.

The Nike Zoom Kobe VII also tells a predator story that’s inspired by Kobe’s predator-like instinct. Predator patterns comes to life in the cast polyurethane outer shell as a “skin” simulating the look of three predator patterns mixed together – the Leopard, Great White Shark and Black Mamba. This raised skin pattern lives on each shoe.

Separately, a graphic pattern also lives under the “skin” on some colorways. These color graphics are available for five different predators – the Leopard, Great White Shark, Poison Dart Frog, Grey Wolf and Black Mamba.

NIKEiD will bring full customization to the Nike Zoom Kobe VII this year, featuring multiple ways to build the system. Customization options include choices for fit, cushioning and colors. An exclusive sneak preview will debut on Dec. 12 via NIKEiD’s Facebook page. Full customization will be available beginning Dec. 22 on NIKEiD.com.

Nike has also partnered with NBA 2K12 to integrate the Nike Zoom Kobe VII within the game. Beginning Dec. 22, the shoe will virtually release in unison with key retailers. Additional colorways will launch in the game at key moments throughout the year.

For those looking to get their hands on a pair, the Nike Zoom Kobe VII will be available in two versions beginning Dec. 22 at select retailers. The Nike Zoom Kobe VII System (Attack Fast insert) for $140, and the Nike Zoom Kobe VII System Supreme (Attack Fast and Attack Strong insert) for $180. The System comes with a single midsole with Zoom Air in the forefoot and heel, whereas the System Supreme Ccmes with both midsoles and sleeve heights.

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