When the majority of us think about Kobe Bryant sneakers, we tend to link the late NBA superstar with Nike. This makes perfect sense since Kobe Bryant (estate) and Nike will soon be closing in on their 20-year anniversary. That being said, Kobe Bryant’s sneaker origin story did not begin with Nike. Rather, it began with adidas. For that reason alone, this is what makes these upcoming adidas sneaker releases so significant.
The adidas Crazy 97 EQT ((formerly known as the Elevation EQT) became a household name when Kobe Bryant laced them up on his way to winning the 1997 Slam Dunk contest, becoming the youngest dunk champion at the age of 18. Although not “officially” a Kobe Bryant signature sneaker, the Crazy 97 was considered the first kicks Kobe ever got from adidas.
The adidas Crazy 1 (formerly known as the adidas Kobe) made its debut back in 2000. A rerelease happened in 2006 while the latest retro took place during the mid-2010s. These Crazy 1 is also the sneaker Kobe wore during his his first of five NBA championships. Without a doubt one of Kobe’s most unique looking sneakers, the Crazy 1 is highlighted by its molded upper that was designed to look like the Audi TT Roadster. Other design include a double foam collar, half-shell toe, injected EVA midsole and a Torsion system. Always labeled as a controversial sneaker due to its looks, there’s no denying that the tone of this upcoming retro is much different than past offerings for the simple fact that Kobe is no longer with us. For that reason, this release will be much more memorable and emotional than all of its predecessors.
Although the Kobe Bryant and Nike partnership has recently been rekindled, adidas would still like to commemorate the legend that is Kobe Bryant by bringing back some of his most notable early models that he wore during his tenure with the Three Stripes.
The adidas Crazy 97 EQT will be returning in the classic Purple, Black and White colorway that Kobe wore during the 1997 Slam Dunk contest, as well as in a brand new Silver, Black, and White “All-Star” colorway nodding to the colors of 1997?s All-Star Weekend. Also making a return is the adidas Crazy 1 in the OG White and Black “Stormtrooper” colorway. Looking to grab a pair or three? All three pairs will be dropping overseas on July 22nd at select premium retailers which includes the good people over at BSTN (yes, they ship adidas product to the U.S.)
In Jordan Brand news, the Air Jordan 4 WMNS Canyon Purple is expected to debut next month.

via: BSTN