Today Nike has finally shed some light on the mystery that is the Nike Zoom Kobe VIII. As Kobe’s 8th signature sneaker from Nike the Kobe 8 is the lightest model yet, having a sample (size 9) weight of only 9.6 ounces. This is all thanks to a full-length Lunarlon midsole and an engineered Mesh upper. In addition to the U.S., Kobe is tremendously popular in China, and this model takes inspiration from of Kobe’s “Black Mamba” status as well as the upcoming Chinese Year of the Snake in 2013, this model will sport an all-new snake theme which includes a “knit-in mamba pattern” as well as an update Kobe “sheath” logo. The sneaker was designed by legendary designer Eric Avar.
The Nike Zoom Kobe 8 will initially release on
December 4 as a NikeiD release, followed by a Black/Sulfur
colorway (below). On January 12, 2013, a python-inspired colorway
will drop in China, with a later U.S. release on February 2, 2013.
Full description from Nike: