Thanks in large part to Vanessa Bryant, we continue to get some of the best looks into Nike’s plans for the Kobe Protro series.
She shared another sneak preview on her Instagram Stories earlier today, showing off a handful of unreleased Kobe designs spanning the Kobe 5, Kobe 6, and Kobe 9. There’s everything from storytelling sneakers to loud graphics to pairs that seem more like Player Exclusives. Even though Nike hasn’t made any official announcements, Kobe enthusiasts are getting a thrilling preview of the broad possibilities ahead.
Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Philadelphia Eagles”
Kobe Bryant’s Philadelphia upbringing and his affinity for the Eagles football team are celebrated in this upcoming Kobe 5 Protro colorway, featuring white, green, and black hues. This colorway draws its inspiration directly from the NFL team, a tribute to Kobe’s well-documented love for the Eagles and his roots in Philadelphia.
Details like a ripstop-style tongue and a chenille Swoosh give the shoe added texture and a varsity-inspired feel. This colorway also holds a special meaning for Kobe’s life, especially since his last public outing with Gianna saw them courtside in an Eagles beanie.
Nike Kobe 6 Protro “Polka Dot Pack”
Vanessa’s most recent sneak peek also revealed two remarkably distinct Kobe 6 Protro colorways sporting large polka dots. The packs standout design elements give the lineup one of the biggest surprise feels.
One half of this pack features a Kobe 6 Protro with a white foundation and red polka dots. The reverse was also apparent, featuring a red foundation adorned with white polka dots. It’s quite a shift from the typical Kobe stories we’ve seen, moving beyond Mamba branding, Lakers lore, city tributes, or recollections of his experiences.
Nike hasn’t shared the inspiration behind this concept, leaving us to wonder if the “Polka Dot Pack” carries a deeper significance or is just an experimental design for the Kobe 6.
Nike Kobe 6 Protro “Bellissima”
The Kobe 6 Protro “Bellissima” concept appears to draw its inspiration from Kobe Bryant’s early years spent in Italy. The Italians phrase translated to “most beautiful,” which is told through the floral design on display.
The upper is covered in flowers, while embroidered blossoms are placed on top for added detail. Beautiful pink stitching runs along the Swoosh, tying the whole shoe together. White midsoles and gum rubber outsoles help compliment the top without stealing attention.
Nike Kobe 9 EM “California Mountain Snake”
If you were hoping to see something a little more traditional, the Kobe 9 EM Low Protro “California Mountain Snake” introduces one of the series’ most common themes. Given Kobe’s “Black Mamba” alter ego, it’s only fitting that a multitude of snake-themed designs have found a home in his sneaker catalog, and this offering continues that trend.
The shoe features an engineered mesh upper that is covered in a reptile-esque pattern pulled from colors like reddish orange, black, and light tan. Together the colorways help craft a sleek look pulled from the California mountain snake itself. While Vanessa’s preview featured other eye-catching designs, this Kobe Protro tells a story in a more traditional sense.
Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro “Dusty Pink”
On a more minimal note was a Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro sneaker shown in a “Dusty Pink” colorway. The muted colors give the shoe an almost pastel vibe, while the Flyknit upper keeps the look largely tonal.
The pink tones cover the shoe from the collar to toe, while matching midsoles clean up the look. Gum rubber outsoles were also showcased on the sneakers bottom half, giving the build a warmer feel.
Nike Kobe 9 Elite High Protro “Iron Man”
This iteration showcases the Kobe 9 Elite High Protro in a memorable red and gold scheme, presented in its high-top silhouette. The color scheme immediately brings “Iron Man” to mind for any comic book fan.
Built with a bright red Flyknit upper as its base, golden accents were added on top to give it that flashy superhero feel. Tying the whole sneaker together is a turquoise Nike Swoosh that helps give the shoe some contrast, while not taking away from the Iron Man theme.
At this time, Nike has not confirmed release details for any of the pairs shown. Some could eventually launch at retail, while others may remain PEs. Stay tuned for more updates as Kobe Brand’s upcoming lineup continues to unfold.
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