The Nike Air Force 1 Low Kobe Cool Grey is part of the ongoing “Mamba Forever” series of releases honoring the legacy of Kobe Bryant, bringing tribute storytelling to the classic Air Force 1 platform. This monotone execution keeps things understated, allowing the commemorative details to stand out while still remaining highly wearable as an everyday pair. It’s a respectful, lifestyle-focused release that fits seamlessly into the broader Kobe Nike lineup.
Originally designed by Bruce Kilgore in 1982, the Air Force 1 was Nike’s first basketball shoe to feature Air cushioning and has since become one of the most iconic sneakers ever made. The Kobe Air Force 1s elevate the classic formula with a shiny snakeskin-inspired upper and numerous Mamba-themed details, including the Kobe shield logo on the tongue tag, u-throat, and debossed into the heel panel, “8” and “24” stitched onto the backtabs, “Mamba” and “Forever” dubraes, and Kobe’s signature on the insole.
I’d been eyeing the iridescent Kobe Force 1 for a while but never fully committed. This Cool Grey version delivers a lot of the same special touches, just done in a much more wearable monochromatic palette. To me, it strikes a really nice balance—still clearly a Kobe tribute, but low-key enough to work easily in everyday rotation. Grabbed for retail off the Nike website.
Packaging matches the theme nicely. The shoes come in a black Air Force 1–style box with Kobe accents, including shield logo branding, scale graphics, and his signature on the lid, and they come equipped with grey flat laces.
Materials
Material-wise, the upper has a satiny-smooth finish that appears to be leather, with the snakeskin look achieved more through a printed graphic effect rather than an actual raised texture. While not marketed as a premium leather execution, the finish looks clean and consistent, and the overall construction feels solid. This pair is clearly more about the tribute design and visual presentation than ultra-plush materials.
Fit & Comfort
Fit is typical Air Force 1. These run roomy at true to size, and depending on foot shape or preference, some may want to go a half size down. Underfoot, it’s the familiar chunky AF1 feel—nothing groundbreaking, but comfortable enough for everyday casual wear.
If these are sold out at different stores online, you can try looking for them on eBay.
Colorway: Cool Grey / Wolf Grey
Style Code: IB0018-004
Retail Price: $120
Year of Release: 2026