words // Brandon Richard

For obvious reasons, the Los Angeles Lakers and their fans are looking forward to the 2012-2013 NBA season, but last season’s signature Kobe Bryant basketball shoes are still dropping in new eye-catching colorways. The latest release from the “Predator Pack” is the “Cheetah” Nike Kobe VII, featuring a spot-printed polyurethane shell upper that provides durability and a performance fit. Black works the tongue, inner lining and heel, which is supported by a molded 3D heel clip in an off-white hue known as Sail. The color continues down at the midsole, while Medium Grey fills in the Kobe logo, Swoosh branding and majority of the tread on the rubber outsole. Making sure you know which beast this shoe represents, there’s a cheetah logo on the heel in orange.

A cheetah-inspired design obviously makes this Kobe VII a great casual option, but the performance tech element is there too. Mesh placed under the polyurethane shell enhances breathability. Next-generation Flywire technology offers lightweight support and lockdown. The ‘Attack Fast’ insert consists of Phylon and Nike Zoom units in the heel and forefoot to deliver a lightweight, responsive ride built for speed. Lateral stability and lightweight grip are provided by a solid rubber outsole with a triangular traction pattern and strategically placed lateral outriggers. Flex grooves allow the shoe to move naturally with the foot for enhanced articulation and flexibility.

The “Cheetahs” are one of several Nike Kobe VII colorways we have available for you now.

Available: Nike Kobe VII – Cheetah