Gold and Silver. Precious metals that keep climbing in value as the American dollar continues to drop in value. Much like gold and silver, the Kobe VI limited release colorways seem to do nothing but climb in value once released for retail. Whether they sell for $130 or $150, these limited release Kobe's always seem to end up costing around $300. Or more. For a lot of us sneakerheads, they may as well be solid gold, we just can't afford 'em. But unlike gold, silver is very affordable. Like in the form of a precious metal or a Kobe VI.

You see, a metallic silver Nike Zoom Kobe VI was recently released, and unlike those other limited release Kobe Bryant shoes, you don't have to pay an arm and a leg for it. It was released at retail outlets for the standard $130 asking price. And guess what? It still only comes with a pricetag of actual retail value. Whoa! You mean to tell me that I can take a trip down to my local mall at a leisurely pace and be able to buy a sweet pair of brand new Kobe VI's? In a sick metallic silver snakeskin textured colorway? For retail price? No way! Alright, I am done being sarcastic.

It is true though, the new metallic silver colorway of the Kobe VI can be had for retail price. It is one of several different Nike Zoom Kobe VI colorways that don't require plane fare, hotel accomedations, and camping equpment. In the world of Nike shoes for basketball there seems to be quite a bit of disparity between the different colorways of the Kobe VI  that have been dropped. For example, if you are looking to cop a pair of Kobe VI "Grinch", you may experience sticker shock. Plan on spending around $350. On the other hand, if you fancy a pair of the metallic silver Kobe VI's, you will only have to shell out $130. And if history holds true, only $100 if you can wait until they go on sale.

But why such a huge difference in price for the same pair of kicks that just have different colorway? Here's why. Availability and limited numbers. For some reason, Nike seems to like to produce specific Kobe VI's in limited numbers and make them available in a limited number of stores. Low supply and high demand will always drive the price up. Yes, I took Economics 101 in college, and that is about the only principal in the course that I remember.

But that's alright, this country was built on capitalism and turning a profit, large or small, is the American way. If  a sneakerhead truly wants a Kobe VI "Grinch", or an ounce of gold, he or she will have to find a way to make the investment required.  If a sneakerhead, on the other hand , only wants a metallic silver Kobe VI, or an ounce of silver, an investment is still required.  Both Kobe VI's are valuable. Just different in monetary value. It is interesting though, that the best sneaker for basketball, can have a such a significantly different amount on it's pricetage. A difference simply determined by it's color.