This post may contain affiliate links. Please read our disclosure policy.
2. Nike Zoom Kobe IV
The Good: While other shoes like the Jet Flight and Gil Zero were certainly flagship low-top models, it wasn’t until the Kobe IV released in 2009 that an entire era of players of all sizes would be seen playing in low-cut sneakers. With a low yet protective collar, incredible traction, lockdown, fit and sharp support, the Kobe IV was the breakout model of Kobe’s Nike series and was adopted on courts nationwide.
The Bad: After the introduction of Lunar Foam in the Hyperdunk, the Kobe IV followed it up and also incorporated Nike’s newest tech into the forefoot. Most everyone would’ve preferred Zoom Air. The Lunar Foam bottomed out within a handful of wearings and couldn’t hold up to the rigors of hoops. Otherwise, the Kobe IV was nearly perfect.
