Image approved
Forefoot midsole tech
Hexalite heel + forefoot cushioning
Heel midsole tech
Hexalite heel cushioning
Outsole tech
Rubber with deep traction tread
Upper tech
Synthetic leather + textile with bold side panels
Cushioning feel
balanced and responsive
Court feel
good
Bounce
moderate
Stability
good
Traction
good
Fit
true to size, snug
Analysis
Performance profile
Cushioning Feel
78Very GoodCourt Feel
82Very GoodBounce
58SolidStability
74GoodTraction
72GoodFit
82Very GoodContext
Story & provenance
Shawn Kemp's Lightning Bolts Live On
The Reebok Kamikaze II originally released in 1995 as Shawn Kemp's signature during the Seattle SuperSonics' peak era. Hexalite cushioning sat in both the heel and forefoot, paired with a denser-than-Phylon mystery midsole foam, and the outsole used a deep tread pattern that handled outdoor play well. The signature design element was the bold lightning-bolt side panels in contrasting colors, which became one of the most recognizable mid-90s basketball aesthetics. WearTesters, SneakerNews, and SneakerFreaker have covered the various retro releases over the years, often noting the Kamikaze II's surprisingly capable on-court performance for a retro silhouette. The shoe remains a Reebok Basketball heritage staple and continues to draw new retro colorways for collectors and hoopers alike.