In 1998, all eyes were on the matchup between Kobe Bryant and Michael Jordan during the NBA All-Star Game. At the time, Bryant was an adidas athlete and took the court rocking what we now call the adidas Crazy 8, originally released under Kobe’s signature line as the adidas KB8. The specific colorway he wore is now called the 1998 All-Star Game rendition, which has seen a retro just two times, once in 2011 and a second time in 2014. Following an auction for the pair worn by Kobe during the All-Star Game, the pair will return to the masses in 2024.
This 2024 release of the adidas Crazy 8 1998 All-Star Game is a faithful recreation of the original with some minor changes. The sneaker is constructed with black tumbled leather, complemented by black patent leather and mesh, forming a durable and stylish upper. The color scheme pays homage to Bryant's time with the Lakers, featuring purple and gold accents - the team's signature colors. These hues are incorporated on the adidas branding atop the tongue, the collar, and the heel. The FYW (Feet You Wear) logo on the medial side of the collar is presented in purple, maintaining the sneaker's authentic feel.
A notable update on this reissue is the "98" embroidered on the toe, a nod to the year of the All-Star game, replacing the original "8," which referenced Bryant's jersey number at the time. Another design difference is the pull-tabs on the tongue and heel, this time coming in black and silver with 3M accents, while the original pair and subsequent retros featured gold and purple. The design is completed with a black and white foam midsole incorporating EVA cushioning, ensuring comfort and performance, paired with a black and purple rubber outsole.
The adidas Crazy 8 1998 All-Star Game will release just in time for NBA All-Star Weekend as the pair is slated to drop on February 15, 2024, through adidas and select retailers online and in-store. Priced at $140, this release will be available in men's and GS sizes. Stay tuned to the Sole Retriever mobile app for the latest updates on this release and more from the sneaker and streetwear world.
adidas Crazy 8 1998 All-Star Game (2024)
GS Images via adidas
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Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com
