The Nike Kobe 2, also known as the Air Zoom Kobe II, was designed by Ken Link and was released in 2007. Nike Basketball would launch different iterations of the silhouette, including the known mid-top version with an ankle strap. There was also a Lite version of the model that lacked the signature strap and was overall slimmed down and ST.
After releasing the Nike Zoom Kobe 1 in 2006, the Nike Zoom Kobe 2 followed in 2007. For the Nike Kobe 2, a set entitled “Weapons of War” was created featuring three pairs of the ZKII: Sheath, Strength, and Lite. The Sheath was released on April 1, 2007, the Strength on May 1, 2007, and the Lite in October 2007. For his second signature shoe, Kobe teamed up with the Nike design team to ensure his Kobe 2 would be a creative signature that would improve speed and strength and provide flexibility, traction, and support.
Another key feature of the Kobe 2 was its use of Zoom Air cushioning technology, which was incorporated into the forefoot and heel to deliver responsive cushioning and impact protection. This cushioning setup helped Bryant maintain his agility and explosiveness during games.
Like the previous Kobe shoe, colors were taken from the Los Angeles Lakers and the USA team jersey. Some of the popular pairs include the original “Carpe Diem,” “Lakers Home,” “Olympic,” and “Shark.” The “Lakers Away” was an Asia Exclusive. We would see a retro drop of the pair part of the “Prelude” collection in 2013.