Nike Unveils Three New Colorways of the Kobe 9 Elite

Nike unveils the upcoming Inspiration, Perspective and Detail colorways of the new Kobe 9 Elite.

Nike Kobe 9 Elite New Colorways

words // Brennan Hiro Williams

The Road to the Masterpiece finally comes to an end next month with the release of the Nike Kobe 9 Elite. Eric Avar's new design features an innovative combination of Flyknit, Flywire and Lunarlon technologies, making the Kobe 9 Elite one of the most unique basketball shoes in footwear history. 

Today, Nike provided a look at three more intriguing colorways of the Kobe 9 Elite, telling the story behind some of Kobe's inspirational muses, including art, culture and the city of Los Angeles:


INSPIRATION


For over 18 years now, Kobe has bled purple and gold. The five championships during his illustrious career in Los Angeles reflect his commitment. Utilizing a unique take on the Lakers traditional colors, the Kobe 9 Elite 'Inspiration' colorway will be worn by Bryant upon his return to the court. Retail launch: March 1.


PERSPECTIVE


The Blue Period was a three year-stretch of artistic brilliance by the Spanish cubist painter Pablo Picasso, whose artwork during this time featured somber shades of blue and blue-green. The Spanish master serves as the guiding inspiration for the Kobe 9 Elite 'Perspective' colorway. Retail launch: March 8.


DETAIL


Michelangelo, the Italian Renaissance artist who reigned supreme in the 1500s, could be considered one of the greatest artists of all time. Known primarily for his life-like human sculptures, his work inspired art for centuries to follow. With similar Italian roots, for Bryant, detail is everything, leading to the creation of the grey-based Kobe 9 Elite 'Detail' colorway. Retail launch: March 22.  

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Inspiration

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Inspiration heel

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Inspiration outsole

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Inspiration tongue

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Blue

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Blue heel

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Blue outsole

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Blue tongue

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Grey Detail

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Grey Detail heel

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Grey Detail outsole

Nike Kobe 9 Elite Perspective Grey Detail tongue