| Signature Shoe Name | Associated Player | Partnership Company | Price Range | Release Year |
| Adidas KB8 III | Kobe Bryant | Adidas | $45 – $2,000+ | 1999 |
| Adidas “Crazy 8s” KB8 I | Kobe Bryant | Adidas | $50 – $2,000+ | 1997 |
In this article, we undertake a comprehensive comparison between two iconic basketball shoes: the Adidas KB8 III and the Adidas “Crazy 8s” KB8 I. Our exploration will encompass a myriad of aspects, from the background of the associated player to a deep dive into each shoe’s distinctive features. Join us on this journey as we endeavor to assist you in determining which of these basketball sneakers aligns most harmoniously with your preferences.
The graph above breaks down all of the brands and the number of shoes that we cover on this website as of October 2023. We will update it as we cover more kicks; let us know if there are any we should add!
Brand Overview
Founded in 1949, Adidas stands tall as a globally recognized sportswear brand, celebrated for its basketball footwear and apparel. In the realm of basketball, Adidas commands a commendable presence, actively sponsoring NBA players and teams and consistently launching signature shoe lines. Among its illustrious endorsements is the likes of James Harden, who boasts a signature series of Adidas basketball shoes. The brand competes assertively with industry titans like Nike, harnessing its innovative technology and avant-garde designs to firmly establish itself in the basketball market. Adidas remains unswervingly committed to pushing the boundaries of performance and style, rendering it a distinguished choice for athletes and ardent basketball enthusiasts alike.
Associated Player Overview
Before delving into the specifics of each shoe, it is imperative that we acquaint ourselves with the luminary behind these signature sneakers, none other than the legendary Kobe Bryant. Kobe, a retired professional basketball icon, graced the hardwood for an astounding 20 seasons as a Los Angeles Lakers superstar in the National Basketball Association (NBA). He unquestionably ranks among the elite pantheon of basketball immortals, having clinched five NBA championships and two Olympic gold medals during a storied career. Kobe’s remarkable journey commenced with a direct leap into the NBA from high school, initially drafted by the Charlotte Hornets before being traded to the Lakers. Throughout his illustrious tenure, he earned accolades for his awe-inspiring athleticism, scoring acumen, and indomitable spirit in clutch moments of pivotal games. Tragically, Kobe Bryant’s life was abruptly cut short in a helicopter crash in 2020, leaving behind a profound legacy as one of the most gifted and accomplished basketball virtuosos in history.
Signature Shoe Description
Our focus now shifts to the heart of the matter: a detailed description of the signature shoes themselves. The KB8 III, in its design, incorporates AdiPRENE cushioning technology, providing a highly responsive and comfortable experience while effectively absorbing impact. Complementing this innovative cushioning is a mixed-material upper, ingeniously engineered to strike a harmonious balance between style and function, ensuring both on-court performance and aesthetic appeal. In contrast, the “Crazy 8s” continue to flaunt their distinctive shell-toe design, supplemented by adjustable support straps. These attributes not only contribute to an eye-catching and unique visual identity but also enable wearers to customize the fit according to their preferences, thereby ensuring optimal comfort and support during gameplay.
Pricing Insights
A pivotal determinant in your decision-making process, and perhaps the most critical, is the pricing factor. To provide you with a comprehensive grasp of the financial dimension, we have meticulously combed through prices across various platforms, including reputable sources like Flight Club and eBay. Presently, the Adidas KB8 III is attainable within the price range of $45 to $2,000+, offering a diverse spectrum of affordability and luxury. Meanwhile, the Adidas “Crazy 8s” KB8 I presents a similar range, with prices spanning from $50 to $2,000+. Prudent budgeting is of paramount importance when considering these options, especially if you lean towards the upper echelon of pricing. Ensuring that your budget aligns harmoniously with your desired investment is key in securing the shoe that not only appeals to your style but also caters to your performance requirements.