
Here's my take on the shoe. In terms of looks, I think it ranks pretty high in the KD series! The retro version features a full-length foam midsole with a Zoom Air unit in the forefoot. It feels slightly stiff right now, probably because it hasn't been broken in yet, but I think it'll soften up after a few games.
One thing I have to mention is Nike's shoe last—it's really good. The fit is just right, with the perfect size and width, making it very versatile. The upper is also strong enough for performance. It's interesting to see that technology from over a decade ago still holds up against modern shoes. The lateral stability is excellent, thanks to the design on the sides, which is similar to the Kobe 5 and 6 models. You don't have to worry about rolling your ankle easily.
The low-top design is also very flexible, though the inner ankle area might not fully support the ankle bone during certain movements, but it's negligible and doesn't affect performance. Overall, the retro version feels almost the same as the original. It's mainly suitable for lightweight guards and players who like to do quick stops and jumpshots. Heavier players can still wear it, but the foam might compress over time, making it feel like a brick.