I prefer low tops when I play, and I definitely think the 8s were the best yet. The fit for 8s were great for me, and I have wide feet. Although the 9s are high I still can't wait to try them out
I own 10.5 and 11 Kobe's. Wearing them casually around, no problem in the size difference. When I ball I prefer double socks for the 11s, but I've balled in single pairs of socks and everything works great for me.