Nike Basketball Debuts the Kobe 10 Protro: An Iconic Silhouette Reimagined for Today’s Game

Nike is introducing the Kobe 10 Protro more than a decade after the shoe’s original debut, reengineering one of Kobe Bryant’s most celebrated performance silhouettes with modern innovations built for today’s game while staying true to the mindset that inspired its design.

Originally released in 2015, the Kobe 10 represented a breakthrough in lightweight performance, combining advanced cushioning, traction and support in a streamlined silhouette. The Protro model — short for “performance retro” — builds on that foundation through meaningful updates across the upper, midsole and outsole, creating a shoe that meets the demands of today’s athletes while honoring Kobe’s relentless pursuit of improvement.

Made with modern hoopers in mind, the Kobe 10 Protro features a redesigned engineered mesh upper that increases breathability and flexibility while maintaining the secure lockdown players expect. A widened forefoot and strategically placed reinforcements improve comfort without compromising support.

Underfoot, the shoe introduces Cushlon 3.0 foam paired with a full-length Zoom Strobel, replacing the original Lunarlon and heel Air Zoom configuration. The updated cushioning system delivers enhanced responsiveness, improved energy return and a more consistent court feel across the entire foot.

Nike innovators have also used Nike Sport Research Lab movement data to reengineer the outsole while keeping the traction pattern rooted in the performance principles that defined the original Kobe 10, providing confident grip for quick cuts, explosive takeoffs and rapid changes of direction.

One of the shoe’s most recognizable design elements, the carbon fiber forefoot wing, returns unchanged, continuing to provide lateral stability during dynamic movement. The new silhouette also retains Kobe’s hidden “Endure and Conquer” messaging, preserving a signature detail that reflects his enduring Mamba Mentality.

The Kobe 10 Protro was shaped through extensive wear testing and athlete feedback, ensuring every update serves a performance purpose. From improved breathability to upgraded cushioning and traction, each enhancement reflects Nike’s commitment to evolving Kobe’s legacy for the next generation of athletes.

The Kobe 10 Protro debuts August 23 in the Halo colorway, with additional engineered mesh colorways releasing throughout 2026. Flyknit editions featuring ZoomX foam will follow in 2027. Release dates will be announced on SNKRS and nike.com ahead of each launch.