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Nike Unveils Kobe 8 Protro: A tribute to Kobe Bryant

Nike will be releasing the Kobe 8 Protro in a special colorway, Halo, in remembrance of Kobe Bryant on Kobe Bryant Day, August 24.

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Update: January 19, 4pm (Singapore Time)

The Nike Kobe 8 Protro Halo will be restocked on January 30. Hit the link below to cop a pair.

Model: Nike Kobe 8 Protro Halo
Price: S$269
Release Date: August 24
Shop: Nike SNKRS

Return of Kobe Bryant Day

On August 24, Nike is bringing back Kobe Bryant Day with the launch of their latest Protro silhouette, the Kobe 8 Protro Halo. Nike Basketball and Kobe’s wife, Vanessa Bryant, created the Halo shoe concept, with the agreement that the Halo sneaker would be released annually on August 24, Kobe’s birthday. 

Why the Kobe 8?

At the time of its initial release in 2012, the Kobe 8 was the lightest of Kobe’s signature shoe lineup. Weighing in at 0.27kg, the lightweight quality of the shoe was achieved by swapping the modular cushioning seen in other Kobe sneakers for Engineered Mesh on the uppers. Another key feature was the sneaker’s low profile. A drop-in Lunarlon insole kept the wearer’s foot as close to the ground as possible while retaining dependable shock absorption.

“By shaving fractions off the height and weight, it allows me to play faster with more control. I want to feel like I’m moving at the speed of light,” explained Bryant at the sneaker unveiling in 2012.

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The Updated Look of The Kobe 8

Despite the Kobe 8 being already good as it is, Nike designers have stepped up and made a few tweaks to include the latest technology from the Swoosh. With the Kobe 8 Protro, the Lunarlon midsole is replaced with the Nike React foam for better comfort and responsiveness. Its durability aims to extend the lifespan of the sneaker.

Small details have also been tweaked. The updated herringbone traction patterns have received a minor update while the embroidery of the Swoosh and Mamba logo on the tongue has been changed. The Kobe 8 Protro will arrive in the Halo triple white colorway for the upcoming drop.

Release of Kobe 8 Protro

Aligned with Kobe’s August 23rd birthday, Nike is honoring his competitive legacy with a two-day youth basketball tournament near the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. The Mamba League Invitational features eight elite teams of talented high school players, both male and female. The tournament concludes on Mamba Day, August 24, with the championship game.

The Nike Kobe 8 Protro Halo drops on August 24 on Nike SNKRS

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