words // Luis Sanchez
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Off-court style and appeal have a lot to do with it, but most importantly, low cut sneakers also have performance advantages.
A perfect example is Kobe Bryant's latest signature model in the Kobe IX, which has already been introduced in performance driven high-cut and low-cut versions. The Flyknit-constructed Elite version might be the main performer, but the low-cut Engineered Mesh edition still represents everything Nike Basketball stands for and helps continue to push performance and innovation to the next level. High-cut and low-cut offerings also help add options, offering two sneakers that can be worn by guys at all positions. The high-cut Kobe IX Elite is suited for players looking for increased support and bigger guys as well, while the low-cut Kobe 9 is perfect for the agile and more active player on the court. Options would be increasingly limited without a modified low-cut version of the Kobe IX by Nike Basketball.
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What's your view on the topic? Do you place just as much importance on a low-cut signature shoe as their original predecessors? Or do you still just see them as another off-court option, only to be considered when style is the deciding factor? Hit the comments to share your views and thoughts on the importance of lows in a signature line.