Nike Officially Reveals the First Four Kobe Sneakers Releasing in 2025
Just a week into the new year, Nike is revealing its early plans for the Kobe line in 2025.
The Swoosh has confirmed the release of the Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Year of Mamba,” Nike Kobe 9 Elite High Protro “Masterpiece” and Nike Kobe 6 Protro “All-Star 2.0” through January and February. Although the Lunar New Year-themed Kobe 5 Protro will release in two colorways, only the “Eggplant” edition will be available outside of China.
While celebrating the “Year of the Snake” and Kobe Bryant’s nickname simultaneously, the “Year of Mamba” collection also includes a “satin-like” jacket, fleece crewneck and pant sets and a long sleeve T-shirt — each featuring a custom graphic with a snake coiled around the Kobe logo and wearing five championship rings.
“This collection is an introduction to the Year of the Mamba — and, for our younger athletes, a deeper education on Mamba Mentality and the tenacity Kobe brought to the game,” Bronson Yim, product line manager for Nike Kobe footwear, said in a press release. “With this capsule, we’re not extending athletes a year of good luck. We’re not saying, ‘Have a good year.’ We’re challenging athletes to have a tough year, proving to themselves that they can channel Mamba Mentality to unlock their goals.’
After the “Year of the Mamba”, the Kobe 9 Elite High will return in its original “Masterpiece” colorway along with a “Details” assortment that has not yet been revealed. Less than a week after that February release, the new star-adorned Kobe 6 Protro “Sail,” aka “All-Star 2.0,” will release at the start of NBA All-Star Weekend.
Nike’s press release also mentions another new Kobe 6 Protro colorway that will reference a snake shedding its skin, but no photos of the sneaker were included.
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro “Year of Mamba Eggplant” ($200) will release along with the apparel collection January 9 through Nike’s website and select third-party retailers. The Kobe 9 Elite High Protro “Masterpiece” ($240) and the “Details collection will then follow February 8, while the Nike Kobe 6 Protro “Sail” ($190) arrives February 13.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.