First Look at the 2026 Nike Kobe 8 Protro Mambacurial

Published March 10, 2026 at 3:00 PM

Quick Facts

The first images of Kobe Bryant's Nike Kobe 8 Protro Mambacurial have appeared
This 2026 version of the sneaker looks identical to the one from 2013
Of course, with Protro attached to the name, the cushioning system and tech are upgraded
Expect a release Fall 2026 for $200

A World Cup year means one thing for the footwear industry: a huge focus on soccer (sorry, football) silhouettes. We already know that Nike is going all-in on the football celebrations with themed collections of footwear, some with official ties to federations and others nodding to nations that are with other brands. On top of this, The Swoosh is bringing back one of Kobe Bryant’s tributes to the beautiful game with a Protro release of the Kobe 8 Mambacurial.

It’s a famous story, but we’ll quickly recap it here. Kobe Bryant spent some of his early years in Italy, and prior to developing his love and dedication to the game of basketball, he was on the pitch. His love for football never diminished, and in addition to the official collabs with FC Barcelona on his signature sneaker line, Bryant released the Kobe 8 Mambacurial in 2013. The pair takes inspiration from the Nike Mercurial cleat line, translating details from the boot onto Kobe’s 8th signature sneaker.

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DETAILED LOOK: Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Mambacurial” ⚽️🐍 🗓️ Fall 2026 📝 IO6253-500 💵 $200 📷 prm.cotd

11:18 PM · Mar 9, 2026

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We got word of the Protro release back in November 2025, but we now have early looks at the 2026 version of the Kobe 8 Mambacurial. Nike ensured the model looks just like it did some 13 years ago, with a gradient mesh upper done in a pink to purple hue. Volt green accents on the Swoosh and Kobe sheath logo contrast the colors of the base, while black details ground the design on the laces, sockliner, and midsole. Finishing the sneaker is the translucent outsole, revealing a green and black pattern.

The Nike Kobe 8 Protro Mambacurial is set to release Fall 2026 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $200. Check below for an early look at the 2026 Protro of the colorway, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.