Nike Kobe 9 Elite "What The"

by Quinn L.V. McDonald

The new Kobe 9 Elite “What The” couldn't be more aptly named. “What The????” is exactly what everyone who sees these sneakers is thinking. It's a melting pot of colors that don't really mix and keeps you thinking that this might be a mistake until you understand where the design influence comes from.

Nike explains:

"The KOBE 9 Elite’s provocative design immediately shook up the sneaker world when it debuted in Los Angeles at the Museum of Contemporary Art a year ago. Designer Eric Avar introduced Nike Flyknit technology to basketball for the first time, while engineering a shoe to Kobe Bryant’s exact specifications. To commemorate this game-changing shoe, Nike Basketball’s design team has created the KOBE 9 What The featuring a mashup of color and graphic elements from a variety of past KOBE 9 Elites."
Featuring an overflow of speckled, reflective and Flyknit materials covered in multiple loud colors these kicks are statement everywhere you go, as well as a tribute to Kobe’s 9 Elite legacy. The Kobe 9 Elite “What The” will be coming to nike.com and select Nike retailers on January 10, 2015. Stay tuned for more on this unique swoosh creation.