The Nike Kobe 9 will always be remembered for its bold high-top approach, introducing a super high-top model during an era fully entrenched in low-cut models. What’s largely overlooked is the Kobe 9 EXT, and off-court lifestyle-focused execution of the Kobe 9 built with premium materials often seen on dress shoes and boots.
Appearing in both High and Mid versions, the Kobe 9 EXT was relatively short-lived as only a handful of snakeskin-covered colorways ever hit market to moderate reception. It seems that Nike is exploring that route again as Vanessa Bryant, the unofficial channel for upcoming Kobe footwear, reveals a first look at a new colorway of the Kobe 9 EXT.
This new version harps on the luxury aspect as the upper is built with a soft tumbled leather and a velvety suede that looks elegantly delicate. The Swoosh logo shines in a glossy metallic gold stitched with tonal threading, while the sheath logo appears proudly on the tongue via a metallic gold hardware with horizontal ridges. The supple leather appears on the surface of the tongue, while the thin roped laces match the wine red upper. A full-length gum brown sole protects the bottoms to complete the true red carpet aesthetic.
So, can you envision the Kobe 9 as formalwear? Nike’s first attempt at it in the 2025 cycles looks promising for sure. Stay tuned for release updates.
In other Mamba updates, here’s the latest on the “What The” Kobe 9 Elite.

