In addition to be a top-notch shoe set to rival the best in terms of performance and style, the Nike Kobe 9 Elite shoe has an emotional aspect that will resonate with many fans and athletes. After being benched due to injuring his achilles tendon, the 15-time all star basketball player made sure that was reflected in the design. The ankle-supported shoe does this with red stitching at its back.
According to Uncrate, the Nike Kobe 9 Elite shoe "uses Nike's Flyknit technology to make an upper that feels seamless, enhancing breathability, stretch, and support." It also gives the shoe a stylish tribal aesthetic. The use of Flywire technology also provides more support in the mid foot while Lunarlon cushioning improved impact resistance. Perhaps Kobe will be wearing these on his return to the court.
Achilles-Highlighting Sneakers
The Nike Kobe 9 Elite Shoes is Inspired by the Athlete's Injury
Trend Themes
1. Emotional Design Shoes - The Nike Kobe 9 Elite shoe's emotional design could be a trend in other athletic shoes.
2. Seamless Technology Shoes - The use of Nike's Flyknit technology in the Kobe 9 Elite shoe could inspire other athletic shoe designers to incorporate seamlessness in their designs.
3. Ankle-support Shoes - The ankle-supported design of the Nike Kobe 9 Elite shoe could catalyze a trend for ankle-support in athletic shoes.
Industry Implications
1. Athletic Shoe Industry - The Nike Kobe 9 Elite shoe could disrupt the athletic shoe industry by inspiring competitors to create designs with emotional aspects, seamless technology, and ankle-support features.
2. Sports Equipment Industry - Sports equipment manufacturers could create ankle-support equipment for players to wear outside of sneakers to complement the Nike Kobe 9 Elite shoe.
3. Sports Clothing Industry - The tribal and seamless aesthetic of the Nike Kobe 9 Elite shoe could inspire sports clothing designers to incorporate similar designs in their collection of athletic wear and accessories.