I have taken a long hiatus from my writing on the platform for a while due to my very heavy schedule. But I decided to make an exception on this gorgeous Saturday for my recent pick up courtesy of KW. These are the Kobe 4 Carpe Diem. This is the Protro version, a nod to the original Kobe 4 Carpe Diem released in 2009 after the Lakers’ championship win over my Celtics, which I wasn’t too thrilled about. Nevertheless, this shoe in the Lakers’ purple and gold colorway is something to behold.
Nike Kobe 4 Carpe Diem: On Court Testing
Starting with the design, it’s pretty straightforward. The Kobe 4 and Kobe 6 are among my favorite silhouettes, and the Carpe Diem stands out for its simplicity. The ‘Carpe Diem’ name signifies living in the moment, and this shoe captures that essence. The build features leather on the forefoot area with a glossy, snake-like synthetic pattern that mimics patent leather. The tongue has mesh extensions and a synthetic foam layer for added comfort, topped off with the iconic Carpe Diem Nike logo. You can’t miss the Lakers colorway throughout the shoe, with yellow on the Swoosh and purple accents, including the number 24, Kobe’s favorite number.
Now, let’s talk about how the shoe felt on the court. I played in these with my son’s basketball team, and they felt like an extension of my foot right from the start. Although the Kobe 6 is a bit smoother, the Kobe 4 still provides great performance.
Sizing
In terms of sizing, they fit true to size. I’m a size 13, and they fit perfectly.
Comfort
Comfort-wise, I’d give them an 8 out of 10. They can be a bit snug on the sides, especially if you have wide feet like mine, and the ventilation could be better—I’d rate it about 8.5 out of 10.
Cushioning
The cushioning, though, is impressive. Despite the claim of full-length Zoom units, what you get is a Zoom unit in the heel and soft foam throughout, which does an excellent job of absorbing shock.
Traction
Traction is another highlight. The herringbone patterns provide incredible grip, which was evident even on dusty courts. However, for outdoor play, be cautious as the traction could wear out within three months due to abrasion.
Support
The support is fantastic, thanks to the flywire cables and a sturdy heel counter that holds your foot securely. As a fan of low-profile sneakers, I appreciate the balance of support and flexibility this shoe offers.
Playability
In terms of playability, the shoe is versatile. Whether you’re a center or a guard, it performs well across different positions. I ran drills, cut to the basket, and played in the paint with ease.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while I might prefer the Kobe 6 slightly more, the Kobe 4 Carpe Diem is an excellent backup. Huge thanks again to KW for hooking it up—I’m thrilled to see how these hold up throughout the season. If you’re interested in grabbing a pair, visit KW website and use the code: Bustakicks to get $10 off your order.
