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FAQ + live marketUpdated 2026-03-11
Nike Kobe 8
One of the most celebrated Kobe signature shoes with a flyknit upper that was revolutionary at launch and remains highly sought after as a retro.
Guide Score
86/100
ExcellentLensBasketball
Comfort8/10
Durability5/10
SizingTrue to size
WidthStandard fit
Dress codeAthletic
CushioningEVA
This is our 0-100 guide score for the shoe overall. Higher is better. It is not a stock number or a price score.
How to trust it
The Sources section links to 8 pages we used or checked.
This is a SoleFeed guide page with live store data.
Strong evidence — extensive community discussion
Key facts
- Popularity: One of the most sought-after Kobe retros
- Comfort: Protro updated cushioning, excellent court feel
- Fit: Snug Flyknit fit, true to size
- Value: High retail and resale pricing
- Use case: Basketball performance and premium collection
- Risk: High demand makes retail pairs hard to get
Shoe intelligence
Comfort 8/10Durability 5/10True to sizeBasketball
Guide
Full breakdown
The Nike Kobe 8 was released in 2013 as the eighth signature basketball shoe for Kobe Bryant. It was the first basketball shoe to use Flyknit technology, creating a lightweight, sock-like upper that was revolutionary for on-court footwear. The shoe weighed just 9.6 ounces with a low-profile Lunarlon midsole and aggressive herringbone traction. The Protro version updates the cushioning while maintaining the iconic silhouette.
Questions answered
FAQ
What is the Nike Kobe 8?
The Kobe 8 is the eighth signature basketball shoe for Kobe Bryant, released in 2013. It was the first basketball shoe with a Flyknit upper, making it revolutionary for its lightweight construction. The Protro retro updates cushioning to modern standards.
Is the Kobe 8 good for basketball?
Excellent for guards and wing players. The low profile provides outstanding court feel, the traction is among the best in the Kobe line, and the Protro cushioning upgrade makes it competitive with modern options.
Why is the Kobe 8 so popular?
The combination of revolutionary Flyknit technology, championship-era association with Kobe, and excellent on-court performance created one of the most celebrated basketball shoes ever. Demand has remained consistently high.
How does the Kobe 8 compare to the Kobe 6?
Both are elite performance basketball shoes. The Kobe 6 has a more traditional upper construction while the 8 uses Flyknit. The 6 has slightly more court heritage, while the 8 was more technologically advanced. Both are top-tier in the Kobe line.
Sources & methodology
This page mixes guide writing with current store data.