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adidas has not produced a version of the The Kobe specifically for women, but Fast Breakin' Dame takes this popular men's shoe for a test ride to see if the shoe fits for women as well as it does for men.
by Fast Breakin' Dame, posted June 18, 2001
adidas lives."The Kobes" are a gem of a shoe combining distinction, dazzle and design. And for adidas, a company that has made it's name on technological prowess, that's saying something. Could it be that adidas has the potential to compete with other shoe companies known for their cutting edge, eye-catching design? OK. One new shoe does not make a dynasty, but "The Kobe" sure is a good start to what could be a new era for adidas.
Mama Always Said, "It's What's on the Inside that Counts!"
I know. I know. She was talking about people, not basketball shoes. But I'm not sure that one simple statement tells the whole story in referring to people or sneakers. Let's face it. What's on the inside is important...good values and morals in people and comfort and fit in sneakers. Yet, let's not downplay looks either.
The truth is that people notice these shiny, vinyl, synthetic sneakers with the metallic look. And they either like what they see or they don't. There just seems to be no middle ground. Some use the term "moon shoes." Others call them "futuristic." While others simply stand there, stare at the sneakers and scratch their head wondering if you, the wearer, are as unusual as your shoes.
figure 1. In the photo above the shiny, vinyl-like synthetic upper is clearly visible. In addition to providing the shoe with a unique look, the synthetic upper enhances fit because, unlike leather or most natural fabrics, the synthetic material does not stretch. This means that the fit of the "The Kobe" will remain consistent over time.
But Mama, "Looks Count Too"...
People really do notice the distinct look of this shoe. And that was the intention when "The Kobes" were born. Yes. Looks do count! Checkout the front of the shoe and use your imagination. You'll see what looks like a car grill and two headlights. The shoe was designed with the help of the designer of the Audi TT and it shows. The resemblence goes beyond the front grill, extending to the crisp, car-like lines that run the length of the shoe contributing to its futuristic look.
The Shoe that Looks like an Automobile...
Whether you're an Audi or simply a shoe that looks like an Audi, you need to be able to start and stop easily, move quickly, turn effectively and drive the lane. If you're a guard or a small forward for whom quickness, speed and accuracy are essential, you can count on "The Kobes." They are well-designed, with your needs in mind.
"The Kobes" are well-cushioned and the interior is well padded for a nice comfortable ride. The midfoot has a molded arch providing good support. And, the ankle design, although quite unusual, does seem to provide the flexibility and support needed for quick movement and tough play. Speaking of quick movement, "The Kobes" really do provide good traction and the potential to start and stop quickly. My one recommended change would be to make these sneakers a little easier to put on. One really needs to loosen the laces significantly to slip on the shoe. For more on construction and design details, see the Men's "The Kobe" review.
figure 2. The modified herringbone pattern of the outsole is visible in the image above. Also visible are the molded midfoot supports and the adidas TORSION device, which enhances the overall stability of the shoe.
Pastel Blue. Perfect for Tar Heel Fans...
Women, children and North Carolina Tar Heel fans all have an appreciation for the Ice Blue version of "The Kobes." But show these Ice Blue shoes to most men and they are quick to admit that they prefer the Tuxedo Black, White, Silver or Sunshine Yellow version. To many, pastel blue simply sends a message of gentle and soft, not tough and masculine. As for children, they love "The Kobes." They "gotta have" a shoe endorsed by their favorite player, Kobe Bryant. At least that's what they say.
True Confessions...
I sure do like "The Kobes." But there is one little concern that I, as a Fast Breakin Dame, feel compelled to address. Quite simply, "The Kobes" are designed for men! These sneakers are available in men's and children's sizes, but they are not made in women's sizes. As such, I tested a men's size 8, which is the equivalent of a women's size 9.
Over the past few weeks, I've truly enjoyed the comfort, flexibility, and lightness of these sneakers. And although the shoe fits sizewise, the straight-design of the interior of the sneaker and the firm but fairly low arch support just aren't right for my feet or for many women's feet, for that matter. They are just a bit too bulky for women.
figure 3. Visible above is the black, external heel counter which enhances fit at the heel while also encouraging the foot to stay upright during quick lateral movements. This is a good thing.
Men's and Women's Feet are Different...
Put simply, men's and women's feet are different! For years now, girls and women have worn men's sneakers because not enough women's styles have been available. Sure, some women are lucky enough that their feet do fine in sneakers designed for men, but that's not the case for many women. As shoe designers have known for quite a while, women's feet are, on average, smaller than men's feet, but recent research conducted for the U.S. Army has shown that there are significant anatomical differences outside of size. As Peter Cavanaugh, a researcher at Penn State University who examined the Army's research data said; "Women are not men with smaller feet." Many thanks to the researchers who are bringing attention to these critical differences (click here to learn more about this research).
Summary
So adidas. Rise up to the challenge. We women like "The Kobes." We'd just like to see you design a version that caters to our thicker ankles and calves, higher arches and narrower heels. We'd like to see you design "The Kobe"--for women. And we'd like to see more women's specific shoes available in retail shops so we can try them on, fall in love (with them) and make the purchase. Let's face it. If we are to have game and style on the court, we need to have the manufacturers as members of our team. Get on the bus adidas, Nike, Reebok and all other manufacturers of basketball sneakers. We women hoopsters need your support.
Who's Worn It
Ruth Riley (C- Riley wore the The Kobe while at Notre Dame)
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