The Innovative Kobe A.D. “NXT” Is Set To Release April 1st
By Tim Ryan
The next sneaker to be unveiled from Kobe Bryant’s signature Nike line, the A.D., has taken a pretty innovative leap with the unveiling of the “Kobe A.D. NXT” when comparing it to previous iterations from the same line.
As you’ll quickly notice from the forthcoming photos, the most dramatic change is seen in the lacing.
From Nike:
"Unconventional in aesthetic, the [lacing] arrangement functions to promote optimum containment during play by naturally adjusting to the athlete and providing a secure fit for each foot.The toggle system sucks the foot down from the top while also keeping the heel back, leaving absolutely no room to slip."
Basically, the lace lock system automatically adjusts in order to properly fit the foot that’s holding real estate in the shoe without any unnecessary wiggle room.
Here’s a much closer look at what I’m referring to.
The Kobe A.D. NXT also features a drop-in insole with Lunarlon cushioning and a heel Zoom Air bag that, per Nike, is designed to “return energy for responsive cushioning.”
When it comes to things you probably would’ve never noticed, there are circular patterns and codes on the Flynit upper that formulate to represent a “rebirth.”
Seriously, there are so many messages of balance and harmony incorporated into the design of this shoe that it would probably inspire the Zen Master himself to spring out of his enormous custom chair and feverishly applaud.
How this shoe was not coined “The Phil Jackson 1” rather than the Kobe A.D. NXT remains a deep, dark mystery. But yet I digress.
For the non-zen crowd — and I’m guessing there are many — let’s take a look at some photos of the freakin’ shoe.
My first look at this shot went as follows: It comes in another color, right? RIGHT?
Because this looks like a pair of Aqua Socks that Frank Costanza might wear in the ocean to protect his sensitive, and quite grotesque, feet.
Right here is where we all breathe a comforting sigh of relief for the Wolf Grey.
See, now isn’t this an infinitely more reasonable offering than that glowing mess above?
Why yes, yes it is.
While this doesn’t exactly vault to the top of my purchasing priorities, I’m still loving this release by Nike and that’s because of the rare candor offered up by the shoe giant.
On the launch page for the fluorescent “Volt” version — right there in black and white — Nike product manager Tony Grosso is quoted as bluntly saying, “you either love it or you hate it.”
Fair enough, my friend. Honesty is everything.
The “Wolf Grey” and “Volt” of the Kobe A.D. NXT will release Saturday, April 1, at 10 am on Nike.com — Volt here and Wolf Grey here — and they’ll cost you an even $200.
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Previously:
- Air Jordan 1 “High OG Royal” Makes Its Triumphant Return
- Puma x WWE x Foot Locker Collaboration For WrestleMania 33
- Nike Releases “FlyEase” Version Of LeBron Soldier 10
- Air Jordan IV x KAWS Is Set To Release On March 31st
- The adidas Consortium x Sneaker Politics Gazelle
- Michael Jordan Gifts Serena Williams With Custom Jordans
- Paul George’s Signature Shoe Features His FACE
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