
The Kobe 8 has been one of the hottest sneaker releases this year, with a variety of colorways dropping. After actually trying them out, I feel like the nostalgia factor outweighs the performance.
In terms of looks, they're definitely sharp, especially from the side. Kobe's sneaker designs rarely miss the mark when it comes to aesthetics.
As for comfort, it's nothing to write home about—just average, but it gets the job done.
Durability-wise, the rubber outsole has held up well after about 10 indoor games, with no noticeable wear so far.
The fit is snug, but if you wear thick socks, I'd recommend going half a size up since Kobe shoes tend to run narrow. I usually wear a 42, and 42.5 feels just right for me.
Traction is solid—the rubber outsole handles dust well, and it performs fine on normal court surfaces.
Stability, however, is where I have some complaints. During quick lateral movements, the upper lacks enough support, causing the sole to tilt outward. It's fine for casual play, but I wouldn't recommend it for high-intensity games.
Another downside is the mesh material—it's a pain to clean, especially with this colorway. After just 1-2 games, it's bound to get dirty. I've cleaned mine twice already, but it's nowhere near as fresh as when I first got them.
To sum it up, at the current price point, I don't think it's worth it for serious gameplay. There are plenty of better-performing options at lower prices. But if you're buying for the nostalgia or money isn't an issue, then go for it.
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