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Nike Zoom Kobe IV Performance Review – George Kiel III
My first opinion upon seeing the Nike Zoom Kobe IV was, “You call that a basketball shoe?” ?? I was never a fan of the low-cut basketball sneaker because I always felt you were asking to be crossed over. After playing and testing in the Nike Zoom Kobe IV, I feel the low-cut, lightweight basketball sneaker will start a trend for what is worn from now on.?? It is definitely going to change the future of basketball footwear.
Strengths: Although the Nike Zoom Kobe IV does not possess the shape of a “typical” basketball sneaker, it is easily one of the more comfortable and player-friendly sneakers I have ever worn on the hardwood. The best characteristic it carries is its lightweight capacity. Weighing in at 11.6 oz, this sneaker allows agile mobility, quick changes of directions and speedy lateral/vertical movements.
The Kobe IV also provides an extreme amount of stability. ?? Wherever your foot shifts, the sneaker is sure to shift with it. It’s almost as if you are not wearing a shoe at all. There is no break-in time. As soon as you lace this sneaker up, it feels as if you have owned a pair three weeks before wearing them. Again I say, it is one of the more comfortable basketball sneakers I have ever laced up. With that said, it is a guard’s dream shoe. Hooping in a low-cut, lightweight sneaker may be the next trend.
Weaknesses: Kobe Bryant did not issue out ankle insurance for nothing.?? Those nervous about their ankles should probably have their ankles taped when lacing these up; however, it is not as bad as it looks considering the molded collar is possesses. Still, playing in a low-cut sneaker can be hazardous sometimes. You would not want to be the result of a crossover collision.
While the Kobe IV played incredibly indoors, the shoe fell a little short outdoors.???? The sole has incredible grip on the hardwood, however there was a little bit of sole slip outside, but nothing to really write home about.?? The Lunar Foam is soft and lightweight, but the down side is that I don’t see this material holding up over time quite like conventional EVA foam, but I would need more time playing to make a conclusive statement about the long term durability.
All in all, not a great shoe – an AMAZING shoe.?? This is a shoe anyone and everyone should give a try.
