From Hardwood to Haute: The Nike Kobe 9 EXT Returns

are bringing more Mamba heat to 2025 with a luxurious revival of the Elite EXT, a bold silhouette which helped bridge the gap between on-court innovation and lifestyle.

First introduced in 2014, the EXT version of the Kobe 9 stripped away performance Flyknit and swapped in elevated materials, reframing the high-top baller for the pavement.

This year’s iteration arrives dipped in deep, wine-red suede, matched with tumbled leather overlays and anchored by a full-length gum sole. A metallic gold Swoosh and Kobe’s sheath logo on the tongue deliver premium touches that nod to the Black Mamba’s enduring legacy.

Of course, the Kobe 9 performance silhouette will always be remembered for its radical design shift. Debuting in late 2013, it was the first in Nike’s basketball line to feature Flyknit technology (which had previously been utilised in running models but never on the hardwood), and was designed by footwear veteran Eric Avar. Inspired by boxing boots and elite performance footwear, the shoe featured an ultra-high collar for ankle support, a bold departure from the low-cut Kobes that had dominated the years prior. Kobe himself, recovering from an Achilles tendon injury at the time, wanted something that reflected both his physical comeback and mental focus.

Currently, no official release dates are locked in, but make sure to keep it locked to Sneaker Freaker for all things Mamba.

For more on Kobe’s indomitable footwear line, make sure to

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