The 4th of July is when the United States declared its freedom from Great Britain. The 4th of the line is when many signature athletes had their sneakers’ own defining moment. For some, the fourth edition of their signature line was really just the beginning; for others, it was the finale. From Michael Jordan and Kevin Durant, to Scottie Pippen and Grant Hill, the IV has proven to be very important.
While you celebrate Independence Day and our adoption of the Declaration of Independence, remember that the freedom that our country gained is the reason that entrepreneurs had the opportunity to create the brands that give us the sneakers that we love. Take a break from barbecuing and lighting fireworks, and take a look at how the 4th was also a significant number for signature sneakers.
Kobe Bryant: Nike Zoom Kobe IV (2008)
Nike Zoom Kobe IVThe Black Mamba’s fourth sneaker not only set his own signature line ablaze, it changed the entire industry. The Nike Zoom Kobe IV wrote the declaration of independence for basketball shoes, setting them free from conventional thinking. Low tops weren’t just for running shoes anymore. After a sub-par first three models, Kobe’s 4s were exactly what KB’s line needed to catch his shoe’s popularity up with his play.
Kobe Bryant wearing the Nike Zoom Kobe IV “61 points”
