Opinion: Nike KOBE X Vino ‘Pops’ With Color

Wine gets better as it ages, just like Kobe Bryant and his signature shoes. The Nike KOBE X Vino, inspired by the green grapes used to make wine, is complex in its simplicity — paradoxical, huh? The translucent green sole really pops. The combination with the green upper with the black base that shines through is different and unusual-looking, but keeps the shoe wearable. Even though shoes that are for the most part green sometimes tend to look more vintage, the KOBE X Vino doesn’t convey that feel at all. The simple silhouette projects flash without taking away the ‘wearability’ from the shoe. The black tongue and Swoosh fit well.

Besides the aesthetic aspect of the new model, the KOBE X looks like a very decent performance shoe to me. The sole looks like it has good traction that allows a lot of quick movements, and the midsole gives the impression of a good cushioning system that supports landings well, particularly after jump shots. So in case you are the type of player that can actually play in a low-cut performance basketball shoe, the KOBE X is definitely worth checking out.

Photos courtesy of Nike