Nike Zoom Kobe VII Poison Dart Frog: Breaking Down Bryant's Signature Shoe

The world loves the Black Mamba, but it's unclear how they will receive his new Nike Zoom Kobe VII Poison Dart Frogs, which are nowhere near as stealth and cunning as the man they are modeled after. 

There are going to be some misses from Nike, and these can be thrown into that pile of duds that I just can't get with. 

Even Kobe Bryant misses shots every now and again, so we can't fault Nike for their misstep, but there are still some good parts of this shoe, so let's take a deeper look.

Wow Factor: 8 out of 10

Here is where Nike wins with these shoes. If you want a pair of Kobes that will get you noticed, these are them. 

We have a "Poison Dart Frog" colorway that includes purple, black and mustard. The colorway is precisely the reason you will have some that love this shoe and others that can't stand it. 

I just can't get with the mustard, and I wonder why the hot yellow used on the frog wasn't used on the upper. 

Design: 6 out of 10

Again, the wow factor may be classic Kobe Bryant, but the design was lacking for me. I understand they are trying to mimic the qualities of an animal, but the mustard on top just looks like dirt—or worse. 

I like the predator line, but I just can't see myself ever rocking a pair like these. Perhaps in a different colorway, but not like this. 

Overall Swag Grade: 7 out of 10

There are still some things to like about the shoe. Overall, the design of the midsole is something I would love getting in a slightly different, lower sneaker. 

The design itself is sleek. The company that has brought us a bunch of hits just messed up on the colors.

These new joints drop on May 19 and will retail for $140. I would love to know what you guys think of them.

Pictures taken from Nice Kicks.

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