Heroes come and go, but legends are forever.
Mamba never out.
Mamba Forever.
For Kobe.
R.I.P
1. Dual System
Why does the Zoom Kobe VII hold a special place in my heart as the most classic model in the ZK series? Without a doubt, it's because of its groundbreaking dual system. The ZK7 features two modules, each with different cushioning and support functions, allowing players to choose and adjust based on their playing style.
2. Beast Mode
The ZK7 is inspired by Kobe's predator nature, mimicking the characteristics of the cheetah, great white shark, and black mamba. You can find embossed patterns of these predators on each shoe in the series. Additionally, some colorways in this series have colorful patterns under the "skin," representing different predators such as the cheetah, great white shark, poison dart frog, and gray wolf. This makes the ZK7's colorways visually striking.
3. Configuration Overview
The dual-system ZK7 is divided into "Speed" and "Strength" modules. The Speed module features a PHYLON midsole and separate Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel. The Strength module uses full-length Cushion and separate Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel, with a high-top design providing excellent ankle support. Besides the midsole configuration, other parts remain the same: elite-level features including a large carbon fiber plate at the midfoot, prominent external TPU at the heel, and Flywire constructed with thin nylon all contribute to an unparalleled on-court experience.
4. Elite Arrival
Starting with the ZK7, the almost "overpowered" Elite series was born. The platinum and black gold colorways of the Zoom Kobe VII, building on the already elite-level ZK7, received further upgrades: Stronger and more durable new fiber composite materials, a full-length carbon fiber plate replacing the midfoot carbon fiber plate, and the heel TPU upgraded to carbon fiber. These enhancements ensure outstanding comfort and aesthetics while maximizing safety.
5. Christmas Curse
The Lakers once again took the stage for the Christmas game but suffered another loss. The 2011-12 NBA season officially began on Christmas due to the lockout. Facing the young Chicago Bulls, the Lakers, who experienced turmoil in the summer, couldn't withstand their opponents. All that remained from Kobe, besides his lonely figure, was the snow leopard colorway of the shoe.
6. Soaring Dragon
During the Chinese New Year in 2012, the Zoom Kobe VII released a special Chinese New Year edition. Coinciding with the Year of the Dragon in the lunar calendar, the ZK7 featured red as the main color and dragon-inspired design elements. The shoe's aesthetic is classic, with dragon embroidery on the heel adding a finishing touch.
7. Surpassing Jordan
In the 2012 NBA All-Star Game, Kobe scored 27 points, surpassing Michael Jordan to become the all-time leading scorer in All-Star Game history. Of course, accompanying him in making history was the Christmas colorway of the Zoom Kobe VII on his feet.