Nike is set to honor the legacy of the late Kobe Bryant in a significant way with the upcoming release of the Kobe 5 Protro "Year of The Mamba." Slated to drop in 2025, this release not only pays tribute to Bryant's incredible impact on the game but also ties into the annual Chinese Zodiac celebration, marking a momentous occasion for both basketball fans and sneaker enthusiasts alike.
The Kobe 5 Protro "Year of The Mamba" will be available in two distinct colorways, both of which showcase a bold design featuring a golden mamba snake. This snake, a symbol of Kobe Bryant’s "Black Mamba" alter ego, wraps around the Swoosh logo on the upper of the shoe, creating a visually striking effect. Unlike previous models, the golden accents on this pair are not just printed onto the upper—they are intricately embroidered, giving the shoe an elegant, refined look.
Further emphasizing the premium nature of the design are golden touches such as the Kobe sheath logo on the tongue and an emblem on the insole, which features the Black Mamba’s two iconic jersey numbers (8 and 24) inside a snake, designed in the shape of an infinity symbol. This thoughtful detail adds an extra layer of homage to Bryant’s career and his lasting legacy.
Along with the sophisticated design, Nike is also introducing a price increase for this release. While the Kobe 5 Protro typically retails for $190, the "Year of The Mamba" editions will carry a $10 price hike, bringing the retail price to $200. Though a modest increase, it reflects the elevated craftsmanship and the limited-edition nature of this particular release.
Despite the price bump, this release is expected to sell out quickly. The Kobe 5 Protro “Year of The Mamba” will be available for purchase starting February 8th, 2025, and collectors, fans, and sneakerheads alike are expected to flock to retailers for their chance to own a pair of this highly anticipated tribute to one of the greatest basketball players of all time.
For those looking to get a closer look before the release, be sure to check out the official retailer images for an accurate depiction of the shoes.
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