Nike Mamba Focus review

Who should buy the Nike Mamba Focus

The Nike Mamba Focus is a solid choice if:

• A basketball companion for the outdoors is what you prefer.
• You are looking for a Kobe model that would not break your bank. 

Profile of the Nike Mamba Focus

Similar to LeBron James’s Soldiers and Kyrie Irving’s Flytraps, Kobe Bryant’s Mamba series gives die-hard fans a chance to own a Kobe basketball shoe at a much more affordable price.

In 2019, Nike continues Bryant’s budget-friendly line with the launch of the Mamba Focus. These Kobe Bryant basketball shoes emulate the Black Mamba’s metamorphosis and allow you to recreate the Black Mamba’s signature moves on the court.

The Mamba Focus embossed upper provides control and stability. The shoe’s low-profile outsole is designed to keep you close to the hardwood to optimize your ability to step back, create some separation, and elevate (one of Bryant’s most devastating moves on the court).

Performance of the Nike Mamba Focus

Cushion. The Mamba Focus is designed to provide increased energy return as you give it your all on the court.

These low-top Nike basketball shoes are equipped with a Phylon midsole with a forefoot Zoom Air unit. This cushioning setup provides responsive reactions and cushions against hard landings.

Traction. The Nike Mamba Focus boasts a Mamba-inspired traction pattern that allows the wearer to move quickly in any direction. The low-profile outsole also helps you maintain a good feel for the court.

Fit

Length and Width. Testers claim that the Nike Mamba Focus runs narrow at the forefoot. Wide-footers are advised to try the shoes in-store first if possible.

Lockdown. The Mamba Focus features a lace-up closure that provides a locked-in fit. An external heel cage and molded Swoosh-shaped framework provide lightweight support and containment.

Material

Like the Nike Kobe 6, the Nike Mamba Focus has an embossed, snakeskin-like upper that optimizes stability and containment.

Style

The Mamba Focus features a low-top design that offers lightweight support without restricting ankle movement.

The Nike Mamba Focus emulates a snake’s metamorphosis. The embossed upper is an ode to Bryant shedding his skin to become the lethal Black Mamba on the hardwood.  TPU eyelets shaped like snake eyes complete the Mamba-inspired theme.

Special Colorways of the Nike Mamba Focus

The budget-friendly Kobe basketball shoes are available in the following color options:

• Black/Anthracite/White
• Black/Black/Anthracite/Opti Yellow
• Black/Dark Grey/White/Black
• University Red/Anthracite/Black/White
• White/Gum Light Brown/Black

Nike Mamba Focus ‘Big Stage’

In 2010, Nike basketball commemorated Kobe Bryant’s last Finals appearance by releasing a set of Kobe 5s dubbed the ‘Big Stage.’ In 2019, the colorway makes a splash in the Mamba Focus.

The Nike Mamba Focus ‘Big Stage’ features a white upper with gold accents. A translucent outsole completes the shoe’s NBA Finals-inspired look.