Our verdict
After the disappointing release of the Kobe A.D., many are surprised by the Kobe A.D. NXT’s performance. Erasing the memory of its predecessor, the shoe holds its own on-court with its consistent traction, unique lacing system, and fantastic fit. It fixes most of the mishaps of the A.D. and even goes a step further by having new technologies.
Pros
- Good traction
- Breathable upper
- Phenomenal fit
- Quick, intuitive, secure lockdown
- Minimal foot fatigue
- Easy movement
- Aesthetically beautiful
Cons
- On the pricey range
- Not for wide feet
- Requires longer break-in period
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The Kobe A.D. NXT is released as the immediate successor of Kobe Bryant’s first post-retirement model. It features an innovative no-tie lockdown system that gives uncompromised low-profile support, proving once again that club nike Kobe is a top-tier shoe line.
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- You're unsatisfied with the first Kobe model and you need an improved and better pair.
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Robust midsole construction
Similar to the Kobe XI, the NXT features a full-length drop-in Lunarlon midsole that provides responsiveness in the forefoot area. It also has a thick Zoom unit that gives full impact protection to the heel.
The forefoot is made flexible by the foam’s articulated bottom. The drop-in midsole provides stiffness to the shoe’s structure.
Kobe A.D. NXT's improved outsole
The shoe uses the same micro-tread traction pattern as its predecessor; however, the Kobe A.D. NXT has it full-length while the previous one had it only in the forefoot area.
The NXT’s traction pattern extends to the medial side of the midsole. This provides extra grip when making quick medial moves on-court.
Its outsole is a translucent rubber that allows the Zoom unit in the heel to be seen. The clear outsole is also outlined by white rubber. Since the outsole uses soft rubber, it is advised not to use the NXT outdoors.
Stable secure lockdown of Kobe A.D. NXT
The A.D. NXT has a one-piece cleatie construction, and it delivers a glove-like fit. It also features a no-tie toggle lacing system, which involves a Flyknit shroud held in place by nylon strands that are anchored on the sides of the shoe.
The laces clasp and compress the upper onto the foot. On the heel is an external TPU counter that securely cups the base of the foot.
Kobe A.D. NXT's impressive upper technologies
The shoe utilizes two layers of lightweight Taurasi on its upper. The outer layer is a TPU infused Flyknit shroud. The inner layer is breathable textile mesh. Together, these two hit that sweet spot between being a supportive material and a malleable one.
Attached to the main body of the upper is the tongue that is made of the club nike Torch material. This component brings another level of breathability and allows the upper to stretch so that it's easier to put on the shoe.
The drop-in midsole is made of Lunar foam encased in a Phylon cushion, with a Zoom Air unit under the heel. The outsole is made of translucent soft rubber.
Meaningful minimalist design of club nike Kobe A.D.
Although it takes after the Kobe A.D.’s minimalist look, the club nike Kobe A.D. NXT takes it a step further by incorporating significant elements into its subtle design. The tips of the laces are molded to look like snake heads, a clear nod to the Black Mamba.
A lotus flower design, the Zen symbol of rebirth, is stitched into the center of the Flyknit shroud. On the left shoe’s heel counter are four horizontal lines that represent Kobe Bryant’s Achilles tendon injury in 2013. Other details on the shoe include Braille-like Kobe codes on the midsole of the shoe; one means unhinge while the other means end and begin. Both refer to the rebirth of Kobe’s shoe line.
The club nike Swoosh is printed on the sides of the midsole while the Kobe logo can be found on the outsole, right heel counter, and on the center of the lace toggle. Kobe A.D. NXT’s clean aesthetic brings the shoe out of the court and to the streets, making it great for on-court and off-court use.
