Kobe 1 Release Dates
The Nike Kobe 1, also known as the Nike Zoom Kobe 1, is the debut Nike signature sneaker of basketball legend Kobe Bryant. Released in 2006, it features a mid-cut design, a combination of synthetic leather and mesh materials for lightweight support, and Zoom Air cushioning for responsive performance on the court. With its sleek profile and distinctive details like the snake-inspired outsole, the Kobe 1 set the foundation for Bryant's iconic sneaker line.
Debuted in 2006, the Nike Kobe 1 signifies an important chapter in the legacy of late basketball legend Kobe Bryant. This shoe marks the first signature model for Kobe with Nike, following his previous partnership with adidas. The Kobe 1 established a line that would become synonymous with cutting-edge performance and unique design aesthetics.
Conceptualized by footwear designer Ken Link, the Nike Kobe 1 aimed to reflect Kobe's precise and high-speed style of play. The design boasts a durable leather upper and a unique foam system, incorporating both Zoom Air and Air units in the heel for superior cushioning and responsiveness on the court.
One of the standout features of the Kobe 1 is the '81 Points' edition, which commemorates Kobe's record-setting game where he scored 81 points against the Toronto Raptors. This, among other memorable colorways, contributes to the shoe's significance both in performance and culture.
The Nike Kobe 1 was also innovative in its marketing approach, with Nike launching an interactive online experience, the "Kobe 1 Konnect" game, allowing fans to explore Kobe’s world and understand the inspiration behind the shoe.
While originally priced at $130, the Kobe 1's price on the resale market varies based on the edition and condition of the shoe. Since Bryant's untimely passing in 2020, his signature line, including the Kobe 1, has seen an increased demand among fans and collectors. Discover all the Nike Kobe 1's past and present on Sole Retriever today!
