The Nike Kobe 3, also known as the Zoom Kobe 3, was released in 2008 and designed by Eric Avar. Wearing the shoes, Kobe Bryant would win the MVP trophy and help the Lakers reach the finals, where they would ultimately fall short against the Boston Celtics. The original retail price ranged between $140 and $200.
The Zoom Kobe 1 and 2 were similar overall designs, but the Nike Zoom Kobe 3 doesn’t feature the Nike swoosh on the side, only the back where it wraps around.
One of the standout features of the Kobe 3 was its innovative construction, which combined lightweight materials with advanced technology to provide maximum support, stability, and responsiveness. The shoe featured a synthetic upper with Flywire technology, a revolutionary system of high-strength threads that provided targeted support and lockdown without adding extra weight.
The Kobe 3 also introduced Nike’s Lunarlon cushioning technology to the Kobe Bryant signature line. Lunarlon foam, known for its lightweight and responsive properties, was strategically placed in the midsole to deliver plush cushioning and energy return, enhancing Bryant’s comfort and performance on the court.
The Nike Zoom Kobe 3 was released in several iconic colorways, each contributing to the shoe’s legacy as one of Kobe Bryant’s most celebrated signature models. Some of the notable colorways of the Kobe 3 the “Lower Merion Aces,” which pays homage to Kobe Bryant’s high school basketball team. The “All-Star” rendition comes dressed in Red, Black, and Metallic Gold and was inspired by the colors of the NBA All-Star Game. A fan favorite, the “Aston Martin” iteration, draws inspiration from Bryant’s love of luxury cars. In 2013, we would see a retro of the Kobe 3, part of the “Prelude Pack.” The last time the Kobe 3 was released was in 2016 part of the Fade to Black collection.