Nike introduces the Kobe 3 Protro – a technically upgraded classic that blends Kobe Bryant’s legacy with the demands of the modern court. In a Halo livery, it’s ready to captivate a new generation with the Mamba Mentality.
Kobe Bryant left more than just records on the pitch - he left a mentality. Now his sneaker is coming back too. Nike introduces the Kobe 3 Protro, a reimagined legend that combines the legacy of one of the greatest basketball players of all time with the latest technology, built for the speed, explosiveness and precision of today's game. And yes, even for those who want to play like Kobe - or at least look like him.
In an elegant, all-white Hello versions, which functions more as a piece of art than a sneaker, the new Kobe 3 Protro is ready to conquer both the court and your Instagram feed. It's the perfect blend of nostalgic charisma and modern comfort - or as we would say in the sneaker world: a classic silhouette with a modern spirit and the uncompromising character of the Mamba Mentality.
When a legend gets an update
Nike reopens Mamba archive and unveils Kobe 3 Protro, a technologically refreshed model that is not just a tribute to one of the greatest of all time, but a concrete evolution of the basketball shoe for today's - and tomorrow's - stars.
In case you forgot, Kobe originally wore the 3 in 2007-08, the season he won the MVP award. But this isn't just a nostalgic exercise - Nike went all out this time. all-inCompared to the old model, this is, to put it mildly, like replacing a flip phone with the latest flagship.
What's new under the hood?
The Kobe 3 Protro is designed for players who play fast, precise and with a lot of control – that is, those who don't wait for the bus, but overtake it.
Instead of two separate air units (in the heel and forefoot), the shoes are now equipped with full-length Zoom Strobel unit – and yes, that means more responsiveness and feel for the game. For extra comfort and energy, the soft Cushlon 3.0 foamTogether they form a dynamic duo that turns every step into a leap towards the hoop.
The upper part of the shoe retains the recognizable mesh structure – inspired by basketball nets, of course – but now with an improved mesh that allows better breathability and stability, because, let's face it, no hooper wants to skate like Bambi on ice.
Diamonds that talk
On the upper and lower parts we notice tiny diamond patterns, which are not there merely for decoration. It is a tribute Kobe's daughter Natalia, whose middle name is – how fittingly – Diamanté. A little thing that adds heart and depth to the model.
Born from practice, not theory
The shoe is the result of close collaboration with players – both those who have already run in the original Kobe 3, as well as the new generation who don't step on the court without a touch of technology under their feet. The testing involved both men than women, which is evident in the versatility of the model. In short, this is not just a “retro story with a little more foam” – it is serious renovation.
As Jeni Takekawa McDonald, director of the Kobe line at Nike, says:
“For the first time ever, we’ve redesigned the sole, midsole and upper of a Protroki shoe at the same time. We listened to the players and made concrete changes. This is a smarter, sharper and better version of an already great shoe.”
The mamba mentality lives on
The third version of the white Halo color scheme, which is coming out right now Kobe's birthday, August 23rd, is more than just a fashion statement. It is a symbol. On the same day, Nike traditionally organizes Mamba League Invitational in Los Angeles – one of the most prestigious youth tournaments in the USA.
This year, 70 young athletes were selected to embody Mamba Mentality – that is, passion, perseverance and a thirst for victory. So if you thought it was just a pair of shoes… think again.
When and where?
Kobe 3 Protro Halo will be available from August 23rd on SNKRS app and at select retailers. If you want a piece of heirloom that looks like a work of art and plays like a machine, set a reminder. Or two. You know, just in case.
