The most asked question – Can I play in Kobe reps?
The short answer is yes, it’s possible. High quality pairs are designed to be playable and built for performance. More nuanced performance reviews are included for every model of Kobe in the guides, which can be found here, on the guide list, which will detail personal experiences, fit, traction, technology and build of the shoe.
The longer answer has a lot more context. Understand these are replicas. Even being designed for the court, these pairs don’t go through the inspection that retail pairs do, inevitably every hundred pairs or so there’s going to be one that’s not put together correctly and splits after a few wears. Also understand that there’s different level of qualities. There isn’t a singular rep on the market, the different quality levels, or “batches”, are covered in the guides linked above and also explained on the beginners introduction. The highest quality pairs obviously are the safest and also best performing, the lower quality pairs you’ll find a lot less success. Keep in mind also the level of competition you’re playing at. A pro player (and yes there are pro’s that are active in the rep community) will exert more stress on his shoes and demands more than someone in high school playing recreationally.
This sub is also a resource to get an idea for others experiences. Plenty of people post their experiences playing reps here, both good and bad. You can search them up on the sub (How to Use the Search Bar is a resource to help) or you can filter posts by reviews using this link. This will give you insight on how other feel.
At the end of the day the important thing is to remember that you’re dealing with reps, everyone’s experiences will vary slightly. Even though the general consensus is that Kobe reps can perform and are playable, that doesn’t mean they’re perfect.
On the other hand, Ja Morant frequently wears reps, in NBA games, most recently he dropped 47 on the Warriors in the 2022 WCSF in a mid-tier quality pair… so what do I know? Anyways use this info and the rest of the info on the sub and resources on the Central Hub to help you make informed decisions about what you put on your feet.
How to Purchase
You will need:
-WhatsApp/WeChat (apps)
-A working PayPal account (or an alternative payment method, like TransferWise)
-Money
-A brain
Buying through middlemen (sellers)
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Find the shoe you want, use the colorway tracker as a resource if need be.
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Find out what batch you want for that shoe. Batches are a specific version of a replica.
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Use the Trusted Seller list, and find sellers that sell the shoe and batch you’re looking for, and pick a seller you like.
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Contact them via the available methods, and follow their instructions to complete the sale (payment, address)
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Wait for QC, repeat until you get a GL pair
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Wait 1-4 weeks, depending on your location, seller, and shipping carrier you chose
Buying through an agent
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Use Google Chrome, turn on auto translate, to convert the page from Chinese to English
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Find a working H5 search link to weidian ( 微店搜索 (weidian.com) ), you must use this link
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Search up keywords to what you’re looking for in the search bar on top
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Find a listing you want to purchase
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Open up your agent site (superbuy, wegobuy, sugargoo, etc)
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Copy and paste your desired product listing link and paste it into the agent site purchase link
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Follow the necessary checkout steps
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Wait until goods arrive to your warehouse (your account basically), check QC photos, repeat until GL
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Submit all ready products for shipment
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Choose a desired shipping carrier, top up your balance, and pay
Sizing Guide & Info
Different shoes have different methods of sizing – this is especially true for different brands (Adidas vs Nike, etc.), but also true between shoes (many people will find Jordan’s/Air Forces fit differently than basketball shoes like Kobe’s). This guide will hopefully help with sizing issues – covered here are insole measurements, sizing for each model and batch, and what size runs are available for specific batches.
The full sizing spectrum of all Kobe reps that exist is US 4-14. Specific sizing runs for each batch of reps is listed below.
*Note – As of 6/25/22, Size 13’s are available for WKB and Godkiller Kobe 6’s.
Insole measurements
Insole measurements are your friend – they are the #1 method of checking sizing before you have the shoes in hand. You can get insole measurements by asking your agent or middleman to send you a picture of the insole measured during QC. Example shoe tag of a size 10.5 Kobe 5
As of 5/28 it is best to get OUTSOLE measurements rather than insole measurements – especially for Kobe 6. Work for an outsole guide is in progress, for now check here for more details.
Here is the full Kobe insole length list with all standards of sizing:
US 7 / UK 6 / EU 40 – 25 CM
US 7.5 / UK 6.5 / EU 40.5 – 25.5 CM
US 8 / UK 7 / EU 41 – 26 CM
US 8.5 / UK 7.5 / EU 42 – 26.5 CM
US 9 / UK 8 / EU 42.5 – 27 CM
US 9.5 / UK 8.5 / EU 43 – 27.5 CM
US 10 / UK 9 / EU 44 – 28 CM
US 10.5 / UK 9.5 / EU 44.5 – 28.5 CM
US 11 / UK 10 / EU 45 – 29 CM
US 11.5 / UK 10.5 / EU 45.5 – 29.5 CM
US 12 / UK 11 / EU 46 – 30 CM
US 13 / UK 12 / EU 47.5 – 31 CM
Basically every half size increase is an extra .5 cm insole increase. Sellers tend to use EU measurements as it is a more international sizing scale – but be careful with EU, the sizing increments are not always linear. You’ll notice from a US 9.5 to 10 it jumps from a 43 to a 44, not a 43.5, from US 7 to 7.5 it goes from 41 to 42, and from US 12 to 13 it jumps 3 sizes from 46 to 47.5.
These full measurements are also included on the box tag and inside shoe tag of every pair of Kobe’s (and Nike shoe). The box also includes women’s sizing conversions (essentially 1.5 sizes higher than the corresponding men’s size number).
*NOTE* KOBE 6 INSOLE MEASUREMENTS WILL REGISTER HALF SIZE UP because of the “cup” shape around the heel. You should tack on a quarter to a half cm from the list above on your Kobe 6 insole measurements. For example, my size 10 Kobe 6’s have an insole measurement of 28.5, not 28. ALSO USE OUTSOLE MEASUREMENTS FOR KOBE 6
However, insole measurements aren’t necessarily the only factor for sizing. The amount of space inside the shoe and the shape of the build are also factors – Kobe’s are historically narrow, and the space within the shoe can get sketchy as you get into reps. Unfortunately there’s no good way to measure this with numbers – so instead we’ll list out batches and models and talk about them individually sizing wise. Keep in mind I don’t have comprehensive info on every single size – info here will be based on my experience with my size, plus feedback and info others have shared on the sub to this point. This section will be updated as new info pops up.
This section uploaded 12/7/21
My size: US 10
Note: WKB is known to have very inconsistent sizing – ESPECIALLY larger sizes (10.5, 11, 12, 13). It’s HIGHLY recommended to get insole measurements if you’re this size ordering WKB.
Size run: US 4-13
World Killer Batch size runs primarily from US 6.5-12. However, some half sizes are not supported – US 7.5 and US 11.5. This is because, well, not enough people in their main customer base are those tweener sizes to justify them making a whole production run for those sizes. Therefore, the majority of WKB sizes are US 7, 8-11, 12.
Kobe 6’s are now being made up to a size 13, and the Kobe 6 All Stars go down to a 4Y.
Kobe 4 sizing – in my opinion around true to size. Could be half a size large as well as they are on the looser end for me but not so much where I would say they are half a size too big.
Kobe 5 sizing – True to size, be very careful for sizes 11 and 12 – they often fit way too large.
Kobe 6 sizing – True to size, be very careful for sizes 11 and 12 – they often fit way too large. \
USE OUTSOLE MEASUREMENTS, DETAILS HERE
Size run: US 7-12
DF Batch has the same size run as WKB, US 7-12, except they have US 7.5. Their full sizing list is US 7-11, 12, no 11.5. They also do not have some pairs that go down to a size 6.5 or lower.
Kobe 4 sizing – half size large. I only have 1 pair of DF Kobe 4’s and they are definitely “spacey” inside at a size 10. This pair is from 2020 however, so maybe they fixed it.
Kobe 5 sizing – True to size.
Kobe 6 sizing – Around true to size. Similar to WKB Kobe 4, they are on the looser end, but aren’t off by enough to warrant saying they are half size too large.
Kobe 7 sizing – True to size.
Kobe 8 sizing – Unknown
Kobe 9 sizing – Half to full size large. These are very spacey on the inside. Would definitely recommend going at least half size down.
Kobe 11 sizing – Around true to size. Similar to WKB Kobe 4 and DF Kobe 6, a bit on the looser end but not quite a half size too large.
Size run: US 7-13
STAR Batch size runs from US 7.5-13. Like the previous two batches, they skip size 11.5. Every other half size however is accounted for so their full size run is US 7.5-11, 12. STAR Kobe sizing is weird tho. For sizes US 7.5, 9, 10.5, 11 and 12 (EU 40.5, 42.5, 44.5, 45, 46 respectively) they are labeled with a different outsole size (pic). I’m not exactly sure what it means as I haven’t gotten a straight answer out of STAR but I think it’s just that he uses the same outsole size for different sizes of Kobe’s (for example his size 11, and 12’s are both labeled “11.5 outsole” so I’m assuming both have an 11.5 outsole). How this is possible without causing sizing issues, I have no clue. I’m honestly just confused by his sizing tbh.
Kobe 4 sizing – Unknown
Kobe 5 sizing – Unknown
Kobe 6 sizing – True to size – but again, best to get insole measurements and depending on your size could be confusing bc of the whole outsole thing.
Size run: US 7-14
Kickwho produces the Godkiller batch, and only have Kobe 6’s. Godkiller is the only batch supporting US 14 pairs.
Size run: US 7-13
KickJerry batch sizing is the only batch besides budget batches that go up to size 13. Their size run is US 7-13.
Kobe 6 sizing – Half size large. Would definitely recommend going half size down for these. The inside of the shoe is just very roomy.
Size run: US 7-12
Not sure on the full size run although I believe it is the same as DF, US 7-12 with 11.5 omitted.
Kobe 10 sizing – True to size
Kobe 11 sizing – True to size
Budget Batches get sketchy. In my limited experience with them, they are almost ALWAYS half a size large at least. I think it’s due to the thin and cheaper materials that there is just always extra room inside the shoe. However, an advantage of budget batches is that they sometimes go up to size 13.
GMK Order Guide
GMK’s site: www.gmkim.vn.ua.
GMK’s business is unique because it’s run like an actual online clothing store. His website is very professional, to find Kobe’s (and other shoes in general) there’s 3 ways to navigate (links will include both desktop and mobile sites)
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Using the search bar in the top right corner (or just up top on mobile) and searching Kobe. This will giving results for every Kobe listing, regardless of model or batch.
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Filter Kobe by model using the drop down list on the right side of the page (top left on mobile). From there go to the “Basketball” tab between “Air shoes” and “Running”. Once you open basketball you’ll see the tab for Kobe to pop up. You can expand that further into each specific Kobe model, or just clicking on Kobe takes you to all Kobe’s on the site.
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Filter Kobe by batch by using the drop down list. From the list select “Factory”. Then select “World Killer”. A list with Kobe’s, Lebrons, Kyrie’s, etc will pop up. WKB GT Cuts are also listed under the Kobe drop down section here.
You can add things to your cart like you would on any other website. You can enter your shopping cart either using the “shopping cart” tab, or the shopping cart icon in the top left corner. It’ll take you to a page like this. As you noticed there is a button for a coupon code. GMK automatically gives you 10% off on all orders, and is automatically applied for everyone (everything is just 10% off automatically).
Once you’re at the checkout page, you’ll fill in your delivery info, simple. Next you choose your delivery method. The method you want will vary depending on where you live and current news on shipping carriers. First time buyers should double check with GMK to see what shipping route is best for them. However, if you’re in the US you can just use FedEx/DHL, it’s the quickest and very reliable. There’s also 3 options, w OG box, no OG box, or fold box. With box is the most expensive. Folded box can save you some money IF you buy multiple pairs. No box is the cheapest but you won’t have your shoe box.
Next is the payment method. Paypal and Wise are gonna be the two most popular options for the majority as WeChatPay and AliPay you have to be a Chinese citizen to use I’m pretty sure. Using Wise gives you an additional 7% off your order (shipping isn’t included in discount rates). On the right hand side your total will be reflected automatically as you edit your shipping and payment preferences. Paypal is Paypal, we’re all familiar with how that works. Wise is a bank transfer app, similar to WesternUnion.
Now is the hard part
Once you select your payment method, you’ll be redirected to a page like this (TransferWise is pic #1, PayPal is pic #2) (keep this screenshot open for the rest of the guide, it will be important).
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Follow step 1, save your order # somewhere. This is the order # you’ll need to both pay, access your QC pics, and track your order.
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Click on the link in step 2 to submit a ticket. Select the linked ticket services. You’ll see a screen like this. Ignore the left side, you want to create a ticket. Enter in your email, fill in the captcha on the right side. Press “Create a Ticket”
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You’ll see your ticket you just opened now. Like it says in step 2, type what’s highlighted in blue in the subject line, in this case for me “64873 by TW”
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Follow step 3 and type in “confirmed by TW” as the body for TransferWise payments, or “FF” for PayPal payments. Your page should look like this (TW Pic #1, PP Pic #2).
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Then type in the captcha and submit your ticket. You’ll get your ticket number which you’ll need in order to access the ticket you just submitted so copy it or save it somewhere. It will look like this. You’ll also receive a receipt of the ticket you just submitted which includes your ticket number and info, it looks like this.
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Follow step 4 and wait. Once GMK’s team gets to your ticket, they will send you a message on your ticket with payment information. When you receive a response, you will also receive an email saying so.
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Once you get the noti that GMK’s team has responded to your ticket, head back to the “submit a ticket” link (if you ever lose this page, get back to it by scrolling to the bottom of the gmk homesite and pressing “contact us” in the bottom left). This time you’ll input your ticket number you saved on the left side of the pop up, like this, and press “view ticket”.
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Now your page should like this (TW pic #1, PP pic #2), and the payment info is the reply.
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From here, hop on whichever payment app you chose, Wise or Paypal, and complete payment to the recipient given on your ticket response (NOTE: For Paypal you MUST do Friends and Family payment. Do NOT leave any comment with the payment. Yes, it is safe, yes it’s normal). Steps 7-11 should assist you, but this part is pretty self explanatory. Once you’ve completed payment, take a screenshot and send it to GMK with your order # (NOT ticket number) and let him know payment is complete for this order.
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GMK will confirm payment is received whenever he gets to it and you will get an Order Update email letting you know that your order is officially paid for.
You’re done, and from there you just have to wait for your QC and eventual tracking to come in. You’ll receive an email when your QC is ready, and (once you’ve GL), when a tracking number is live for your package.
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You can access your QC and Tracking number with the QC and Box icons on the wheel on the bottom right
Once your QC comes in at the top of the pop-up, there is the GL, RL buttons. If you’re satisfied with your pair, select the GL button and you’re set. If not, press the RL, and send a text to GMK with your order # stating what flaws and why you RL’d and they will get a new pair.
Note GMK’s standard QC’s should always have around 9-10 pics per pair. You can request more special angles with him via text (like insole measurements, for example). The pic total is located on the left above the pictures. You must press the yellow ‘Load More’ button to load the rest of the album. You can also automatically save each picture to your computer using the icon below each pic (this isn’t a thing for the mobile site).
*Note* The site does temporarily crash often. If your QC bugs out or isn’t loading just try again in like 5 minutes, or press the refresh button next to the picture total count.