January 2011
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Letter from the Editor: 2010 Year in Review
Dear Nice Kicks readers,
The past year has been a memorable one. Not only because of all the great products we have seen old and new, but the way the market has changed. It has been a very interesting one with some story lines and themes that we saw plant a seed and grow throughout the year. Our world is rapidly changing and so too is the business of sneakers, the culture of sneaker heads,...
December 2010
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18 Sneakers We're Looking Forward to in 2011
In 2010, we witnessed a ton of superb sneaker releases from all of the brands. Highlights included the “Cool Grey” Air Jordan 11s, the “Infrared” Air Jordan 6 Pack, the Star Wars x adidas Originals Collection, the Under Armour Black Ice, the Reebok Zig Tech and the limitless amount of New Balance collabs and Converse First String releases.
2011 will be just as big, if...
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Air Jordan 11 "Cool Grey" 2000 vs 2010 Comparison
All sorts of great kicks dropped in 2010, but no sneaker caused release mayhem like the Air Jordan 11 “Cool Grey.” Dropping 10 years following this colorway’s initial release, the newest retro shoe’s most noticeable change is its new blue icy outsole. But like with any bring-back, subtle changes appear throughout these Christmastime kicks. To give you a closer look, we...
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Release Reminder: Jordan CP3.IV...
Jordan Brand will bring in the new year with a signature sneaker release for New Orleans Hornets point guard Chris Paul. Tomorrow, January 1, 2011, the Jordan CP3.IV Black/White-Metallic Silver will hit retailers for $118. You may recall Jordan Brand softly releasing an exclusive, Black/Orion Blue Jordan CP3.IV in mid-December, yet, this will be the official release of Chris Paul’s fourth...
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Nike Air Max 2011 Black/Red & Black/Electric Green
As always, with a new year comes a new installment of Nike’s Air Max series. In February, Nike will be introducing the Nike Air Max 2011 in two colorways: Black/Red and Black/Electric Green. Nike incorporated the newly-developed Fuse technology in this shoe as opposed to Flywire seen on the Nike Air Max 2010 and Nike Air Max 2009. This comes as no surprise, as Fuse will definitely have a...
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Kicks On Court: Arenas Breaks Out Fila Grant Hill
Gilbert Arenas continues his wide array of sneaker selections during the 2010-2011 NBA season. Usually, our Kicks On Court sees him wearing a rare Air Jordan or a classic Nike Basketball retro; yet, in last night’s game against the New York Knicks, Arenas once again shocked us with his kicks.
Arenas scored 10 points and dished out six assists while wearing the vintage Fila Grant Hill....
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All-Rookie Team: Top 18 New Models of 2010
Cool Greys caused campouts, collabs killed, but it was new models that changed the game in 2010. The past year saw more competition among brands with the emergence of new challengers and company revivals. Technology pushed performance making sneakerheads consider cushioning over colorway for the first time in ages. Was 2010 the sign of a new golden era? A change of the guard? We think so, but...
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Jordan Classic '82 Black/White
Just two weeks after learning about the theft of 4,000+ Jordan Classic ’90s, we now take our first look at the upcoming Jordan Classic ‘82. The significance of this shoe is not known at this time, however, we do know that MJ finished his freshman year in college during 1982. The Jordan Classic ‘82 is similar to a lot of Jordan Brand’s lifestyle makeups such as the V.2...
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Jordan Classic '82 Black/White
Just two weeks after learning about the theft of 4,000+ Jordan Classic ’90s, we now take our first look at the upcoming Jordan Classic ‘82. The significance of this shoe is not known at this time, however, we do know that MJ finished his freshman year in college during 1982. The Jordan Classic ‘82 is similar to a lot of Jordan Brand’s lifestyle makeups such as the V.2...
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Calcei - Laces in Tongues Out
As sneaker enthusiasts, we are always excited to hear music that uplifts our culture in a positive way. Up-and-coming Detroit rapper Calcei does just that with his new EP titled Laces In Tongue Out. The 10-track EP is filled with sneaker references on songs such as Soles on the Street, Vintage Sneakers and Sneakerfiend. Click here to listen and download Calcei’s Laces In Tongue Out digital...
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Celebrity Sneaker Stalker
He does it. Last week we saw Big Sean get in a big shipment from Jordan Brand, this week we see him reppin’ his hometown. Did Sean pick up a hot collab or is he really bringing back gators? Aside from the G.O.O.D. Music young gun we catch Lil’ Wayne in Jordans, George Lopez supporting his favorite player, and Vado sporting Star Wars. Hunh? You betcha. Jordans, Nike, adidas, and New...
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Nike ACG Lunarstorm Blue/Beige-Tartan
During the summer, we gave you a preview look at new Nike ACG makeups such as the LunarWood, the LunarPatch and the LunarStorm. The latter model, shown here, will release soon in a Blue/Beige-Tartan color scheme. The LunarStorm basically contains the Nike ACG Woodside makeup combined with a LunarLon sole construction. Beige nubuck contrasts nicely with the blue LunarLon sole, while a tartan...
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Nike Zoom Hyperdunk 2011 & Zoom Hyperfuse 2011...
The Nike Hyperdunk 2010 and Zoom Hyperfuse are only a couple of months old, but already we’re getting a look at the upcoming Zoom Hyperdunk 2011 and Zoom Hyperfuse 2011. Design themes are similar to those we’re familiar with, though the Zoom Hyperdunk 2011 harkens back to the 2008 version with its exposed Flywire and overall shape. It also looks as though it will bear its cushioning...
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Air Jordan 13 "Flint" Birthday Cake
Sneaker-themed birthday/graduation cakes have surfaced in multitudes on the site this year. We have seen cakes mimic the “South Beach” Nike LeBron 8, the OG Air Jordan 9 and the “Cool Grey” Air Jordan 11 among other sneakers. In addition, check out this “Flint” Air Jordan 13 inspired birthday cake. Cameron, the receiver of this creation, celebrated his ...
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Custom Air Jordan 4 "Black Cat" Pony Hair Another...
Before the Black Mamba there was the Black Cat. The Air Jordan 4 “Black Cat” Pony Hair plays upon the nickname creating the panther illusion on this quality custom. We first saw this sneaker back in June and get another look today. Origin and purpose of this shoe are still unknown adding to the mystique. Are these pony hair Jordans something you’d like to see release? Tell us...
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Air Jordan 4 "Black Cat" Pony Hair Another Look
Before the Black Mamba there was the Black Cat. The Air Jordan 4 “Black Cat” Pony Hair plays upon the nickname creating the panther illusion on one MJ’s most famed models. We first saw this sneaker back in June and get another look today. Origin and purpose of this shoe are still unknown adding to the mystique. Are these pony hair Jordans something you’d like to see...
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Air Jordan 4 "Black Cat" Pony Hair Another Look
Before the Black Mamba there was the Black Cat. The Air Jordan 4 “Black Cat” Pony Hair plays upon the nickname creating the panther illusion on one MJ’s most famed models. We first saw this sneaker back in June and get another look today. Origin and purpose of this shoe are still unknown adding to the mystique. Are these pony hair Jordans something you’d like to see...
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adidas Woodsyde Blue/White-Red
adidas has been releasing many of its original models throughout this year such as the Forum, Samba and the Stan Smith. We have now spotted a rare release of the age-old adidas Woodsyde. Not to be confused with the Nike ACG Woodside waterproof boot, this vintage sneaker possesses a high-top build with 80s basketball characteristics. Its upper is predominately textured in rich blue suede with...
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Nike MS78 Black/White-Club Purple
A colorway commonly associated with the Barkley line ends up on a polar opposite. The Nike MS78 gets the “Suns” treatment, offering the unique motif on a slender runner as opposed to a bulky hoop shoe. A predominately black upper features white branding, a purple collar, and orange accents. These are available now at Finishline.
Nike MS78
Black/White-Club Purple-Team Orange...
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Kicks On Court: Thunder Break Out New Nike...
Although Kevin Durant is the ultimate leader for the Oklahoma City Thunder, the up-and-coming team has shown that they can succeed on their own basketball and sneaker-wise. If you recall, a few of Durant’s teammates debuted the Nike Zoom KD III in a game against the Boston Celtics while Kevin Durant was out with an injury. Today, our Kicks On Court reveals a few of the Thunder rocking new...
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Jordan Evolution '85 White/Metallic...
All-retro-everything takes a backseat as we see the launch of the Jordan Evolution ‘85. A White/Metallic Silver-Obsidian makeup offers a fresh colorway on a fresh model. Swooping lines, performance mesh, and a molded back piece that offers function and flair, the Evolution ‘85 is sure to make strides this season. Get this colorway now at Eastbay.
Jordan Evolution ‘85...
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11 Defining Moments in Nike's Lightweight...
It is safe to say Nike Basketball is, and will continue to, steadily push the envelope when it comes technology-driven, lightweight basketball shoes. The recently-released Nike Zoom Kobe VI is great example of this, as it is the lightest basketball shoe ever created by the storied brand. Yet, it seems as if Nike Basketball reinvents themselves every few years.
To coincide with the recent...
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Nike Lunaracer+ Platinum/Treasure Blue-Volt
In 2008 the Nike Lunaracer+ came on the scene introducing Lunarfoam to the running market. Since then it has become fully integrated into the Nike family as a performance and casual favorite. The OG is back in a new Platinum/Treasure Blue-Volt colorway weighing in at 5.6 oz. Lunar loves can cop these now at Eastbay.
Nike Lunaracer+ Pure Platinum/Treasure Blue-Volt 324909-047 $100
Original...
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Nike Blazer Hi "Voltage Cherry" & "Ink"
The Nike Blazer has been relatively quiet in regards to the winter season, but we have spotted two new, vivid colorways of this Nike classic. Both pairs feature a 100% suede-textured base with one owning a “Voltage Cherry” color scheme and the other done in ever-so-popular “Ink” colorway. Both pairs also contain the off-white, stained, vintage sole and white laces. The...
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Nike Zoom Kobe VI "Concord" Detailed Images
White/Black-Purple colorways have been a staple for Nike since the Barkley days. The Nike Zoom Kobe VI “Concord” carries over this popular mantra to the new age. A scaly neutral upper is contrasted by white branding and purple accents. White covers the heel, outsole, and tongue for a nice home makeup. Are you diggin’ the simple GR releases over the loud limited drops? Tell us...
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WTAPS x Vans Syndicate SK8-Mid 'Leopard'
Earlier this month, we showed you Japanese street label WTAPS’ collaboration with Vans Syndicate which included a Buffalo Boot and a Sk8-Mid The latter sneaker, shown here, is now available at select retailers worldwide. Leopard-printed horsehair suede is seen on the side panels, while a sheep-like sockliner adds another animal dimension. Another interesting feature on the side panels is...
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Reality Studio x Onitsuka Tiger
You may recall this Reality Studio x Onitsuka Tiger surfacing on the web in early April. At the time, sources stated that this collaborative effort would release towards the end of 2010; yet, we are now learning that this shoe will hit retailers some time in January. German designer Svejna Specht aka ‘Reality Studio’ has stated that she has been working with Onitsuka Tiger/asics...
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adidas Originals Superskate Mid "Studded"
The stud design has been used quite a few times this year on sneakers such as the Converse Jack Purcell Crash Studs and the Nike Big Nike Low “Rock N Roll”. adidas tries its hand at the studded sneaker design by incorporating this feature on the adidas Superskate Mid model. Specifically, the stud application is seen on the Three Stripes logo on the side panels and throughout the heel...
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adidas SKATE Forest/White-Gold
Back to basics, the adidas SKATE keeps it low key like seashells, using a subtle silo and minimal flair. A Forest/White-Gold colorway brings a collegiate feel to the simple aesthetic but adds more confusion to the skate utility. Regardless, it works making for an easy to wear sneaker for casual wear and on deck. You can get these now at Premier.
adidas SKATE
Forest/White-Gold
G24895
$60
...
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UNDFTD x Gourmet Cinque Black/Blue
UNDFTD’s latest collaboration with Gourmet is landing at stores now. Mixing sneaker elements and those of a more refined shoe, this Cinque sports possesses a black suede upper complete with blue leather accents. Like the Grey/Red pair we saw months ago, this shoe’s mudguard shows a wave in the mudguard not seen on other releases of this silhouette. Finally, A white midsole and black...
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Nike Air Max 95 Black/Varsity Maize-Sport Red
The Heat are hot and it was only a matter of time til we saw their colors grace some classics. The Nike Air Max 95 Black/Varsity Maize-Sport Red is exactly that. Mesh and vinyl dress the upper with reflective paneling popping as well. Red and yellow work into the branding and cushioning for a clean composition that’s not over the top. Cop at JD Sports.
Nike Air Max 95 Black/Varsity...
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Shoezeum Lists Air Jordan 3 Lot on eBay
The Shoezeum has made a quite a name for itself displaying a plethora of rare and classic sneakers in a unique manner. A minimal warehouse showcases sneakers by genre and model integrating toys and props playing off the design. As of today Shoezeum is putting up for auction an Air Jordan 3 lot consisting of 18 pairs size 11-12 in deadstock condition. All OG colorways plus new ones like the...
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Air Jordan 7 "Orion Blue" New Images
Today we see new images of the Air Jordan 7 “Orion Blue”. The first AJ 7 we’ve seen since the FTLOG “Olympic” release in the summer, this is a completely new makeup with no direct OG ties. Smooth white leather covers the upper with bright accents reminiscent of classic Air Max runners highlighting the model’s strong suits. Is this a good colorway? Give us your...
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adidas Superbeast White/Blue-Grey
Following the adidas Superbeast Black/Blue we showed you yesterday, we now have detailed photos of yet another colorway of this Dwight Howard signature model. Howard will more than likely wear this particular sneaker in the Orlando Magic’s ‘Home’ games considering its predominately white colored base. In addition to the mainly white upper, this Superbeast owns grey Sprintskin...
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DJ Clark Kent x Nike Trainer SC 2010 “112"
DJ Clark Kent’s never-ending “112” Pack has included ultra limited kicks before, but now he’s taking exclusivity on another level. Kent took to Twitter today to show off a Nike SC Trainer 2010, one of Clark’s favorite silhouettes, decked out in “112” fashion. 3M, black nubuck, Elephant Print and Volt are the required uniform, combining some of the best...
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adidas Originals ZX 800 Casual Deepest Earth/Light...
Grown enough to dress up, tough enough for the trail, the adidas Originals ZX 800 Casual blends many a style. A Deepest Earth/Light Bone colorway uses rich leather stretched over a silo taking cues from runners, boots, and moccasins. Clean lines and smooth detail make for a sophisticated shoe. Get ‘em now at Cali Roots.
adidas Originals ZX 800 Casual
Deepest Earth/Light Bone
G12357...
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Kicks On Court: Kobe, LeBron Debut New Signature...
A few days ago, our holiday-themed Kicks On Court spotted Kobe Bryant debuting the newly-designed Nike Zoom Kobe VI and LeBron James unveiling the Nike LeBron 8 V2 both in their respective “Stoplight” colorways. Last night, both player debuted new colorways of their signature shoes in their first game since December 25th.
In detail, our Kicks On Court spotted Kobe Bryant finally...
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Nike Air Max 24/7 "Orange Blaze"
The Nike Air Max 24/7 “Orange Blaze” sees the latest installment of the ever popular hybrid. Bold orange details the 360º Air sole, graces the branding, and accents the lacing detail. Medium and cool grey blend together on the upper composing the familiar gradient effect. These are up for order now at Eastbay.
Nike Air Max 24/7 Neutral Orange/Orange Blaze/Medium Grey/Cool Grey ...
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Non-Original Gangsters: Top 50 Retro Jordan...
The recent “Cool Grey” Air Jordan 11 release sparked the conversation: what is the best non-original colorway? When retro Jordans became the “it” sneakers near the turn of the millenium many JB loyalists scoffed at the thought of new colorways. While OG makeups still garner their deserved share of attention, sneakerheads have come around to the new renditions, case in...
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Reebok Insta Pump Fury "Cinema Pack" Black/Green
Whether or not you saw TRON: Legacy, loved it, or hated it, there’s no denying its amazing visuals and place in Sci-Fi pop culture. When pop culture cross pollenates with sneaker culture, which it often does, you get some unique results. Such is the Reebok Insta Pump Fury “Cinema Pack” Black/Green, the latest in a trend of TRON inspired sneakers. The mix of a black base set off...
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Nike Trainer 1.2 Low Dark Grey/Black-Volt
While the term “Trainer” may have the connotation of weight room shoe, years ago it was meant to be an all-purpose sneaker built for all sports. The Nike Trainer 1.2 Low is just that, sporting a low to the ground cut, Air Max heel unit, and Flywire panelling. A Dark Grey/Black-Volt colorway plays up on dark neutral tones and bright accent. Get after it in the Nike Trainer 1.2 Low,...
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Nike Air Max Go Strong Black/Varsity Red-White
This past year saw the Zoom Spiridon and Air Structure go from running to basketball build. The Nike Air Max Go Strong is the inverse seeing cues from the Air 2 Strong and Air Go LWP move onto a runner shape. A Black/Varsity Red-White makeup brings an obvious hoop colorway using mesh and suede atop a heel Air Max unit. Look for these to release in 2011.
Nike Air Max Go Strong Black/Varsity...
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adidas adiZero Rose 1.5 Black/Red-Aluminum
In addition to the adidas Superbeast we showed you earlier, we now have detailed photos of the upcoming adidas adiZero Rose 1.5. Currently, Derrick Rose is wearing the adidas adiZero Rose, but he will soon switch to this newly-designed, performance basketball shoe. The adidas adiZero Rose 1.5 features a very similar construction to the adiZero Rose, yet, it contains a much more lightweight and...
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Nike Zoom Kobe VI "Rice" New Pictures
Got Rice? Kobe’s favorite New York high school has been getting laced with his Nike’s since the Zoom Kobe III. Next in line is his new sig, the Nike Zoom Kobe VI “Rice”. This team edition sneaker features a predominately black upper with a bright green Swoosh and iridescent gold heel. No release info is concrete, but expect them to be limited. Are these a must? Tell us in...
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adidas Pro Model 2010 "NBA City" Pack
In addition to the signature sneakers of Dwight Howard and Derrick Rose, adidas has garnered a lot of attention from other basketball shoes such as the adiZero Infiltrate and the Pro Model 2010. We have now spotted a four-sneaker adidas Pro Model 2010 collection dubbed the “NBA City” Pack. It contains four Pro Model 2010 colorways dedicated to some of the most celebrated NBA cities:...
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adidas Pro Model 2010 "NBA City" Pack
In addition to the signature sneakers of Dwight Howard and Derrick Rose, adidas has garnered a lot of attention from other basketball shoes such as the adiZero Infiltrate and the Pro Model 2010. We have now spotted a four-sneaker adidas Pro Model 2010 collection dubbed the “NBA City” Pack. It contains four Pro Model 2010 colorways dedicated to some of the most celebrated NBA cities:...
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adidas Pro Model 2010 "NBA City" Pack
In addition to the signature sneakers of Dwight Howard and Derrick Rose, adidas has garnered a lot of attention from other basketball shoes such as the adiZero Infiltrate and the Pro Model 2010. We have now spotted a four-sneaker adidas Pro Model 2010 collection dubbed the “NBA City” Pack. It contains four Pro Model 2010 colorways dedicated to some of the most celebrated NBA cities:...
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Bradley Carbone's Top 10 Sneakers of 2010
Bradley Carbone dictates much of the sneaker content you see online and in print from Complex. As the Lifestyle Editor for Complex Bradley sees a lot of footwear from the practical, to the bizzare, to the classic. His Top 10 Sneakers of 2010 displays a balance of essential and eclectic releases ranging from OG runners to creative collabs. What’d Bradley choose as #1? Check out his list...
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adidas Busenitz Blue/White-Gold
Earlier today we saw an Onix makeup of this model. If you’re good on your grey sneaks for 2010 but like the silo the adidas Busenitz Blue/White-Gold is your shoe. Skate steeze, soccer style, and soft suede pull together this ultra-versatile kick. Built for the half-pipe but suitable for all but suiting-up, this Busenitz is available now at Premier.
adidas Busenitz
Blue/White-Gold
G20034...
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adidas Crazy 8 to Return in 2011
The Nike Basketball Kobe Bryant signature line is easily one of the most relevant and well-received shoe series currently. Some may agree that his last three signature shoes are his best; yet, adidas created some remarkable shoes for the young Philadelphia native in his early NBA. In detail, the adidas Crazy 8, inspired by his former jersey number, was a fan favorite amongst many sneaker...