words_Nick DePaula
Just after last week’s successful launch of the ‘MVP’ Zoom Kobe III, Nike has already launched the latest Kobe-related shoe throughout parts of the Asia region — the Zoom 81. Made to commemorate Bryant’s ridiculous manhandling of the Toronto Raptors over two years ago on January 22, 2006, when he scored 81 points, the Zoom 81 also features the breathable webbed molding that defined the Zoom Kobe III’s upper, but this time along the toe. At the heel is a visible Zoom Air unit, and I’m also extremely intrigued by the altered outsole traction pattern — which looks to provide more wavebone coverage and improved grip as compared to the slippery Kobe III. As a size 13, I’m hoping Nike goes higher than their normal size 12 Asia release production, as these should challenge the big-brother Zoom Kobe III in the playability department. They are currently available on eBay from two reputable sellers — ID4Shoes and kbryant8twfan.
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July 4th, 2008 at 12:09 am
I’m all for celebrating one of the most briliant athletic performances of our current age, but the conflicting design agendas here just don’t work for me.
The vacant ankle collar/upper paneling seems odd when coupled with the more aesthetically daring “basket weave”. (Not to mention the discordant medial side–the black/gold, black/white is NOT a fresh look.) The outsole looks tremendously weak too.
The way the shoe “sits” (for lack of better word) seems extraordinarily odd. I’m under the assumption that it’d probably impart a pretty clunky feel underfoot. Nick, any performance problems with these or the Zoom Kobe III on that front?
Peace.
July 25th, 2008 at 3:29 pm
Dude, I’m gonna have to disagree with your whole lil take. These shoes are very much comfortable. The look is sweet to me too. I will say they are a bit plain at the top but overall the appearance and the colorway are tippy.(black and gold)whats the problem? The visible zoom on the back is totally sweet. You must have to take the devils advocate view or something. I think it even has a notch on the zkIII because of the visible zoom and the fact that it doesn’t have the waffle look throughout the whole shoe. Just my opinion.