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While Nike Kobe sneakers were easily attainable and often sitting in outlets, Kobe Bryant's unfortunate passing changed the perception of his signature line with Nike. Since agreeing to continue the sneaker line, Vanessa Bryant and Nike have slowly been reintroducing Kobes consistently with multiple releases, including the Kobe 5 Protro later in October. Following up on the X-Ray pair and the Team Bank Pack of the Kobe 8 Protro, the Kobe 5 will return in a new Lunar New Year (LNY) inspired colorway come Spring 2025.
This all-new University Red colorway of the Kobe 5 Protro will be launched as part of Nike's celebration of the Year of the Snake. Following a similar design to the Eggplant iteration, this red version sees the base layer of the upper come coated in red shades, while black hits are found on the lace set, sockliner, collar, and heel. More black lands on the Swoosh, outlined in gold and surrounded by a golden snake, playing into the LNY theme. Underfoot sits a black midsole paired with a clear outsole.
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro LNY University Red will release on January 9, 2025, exclusively in China. A global release will follow on February 13 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. The sneaker will retail for $200 and $120 in men's and GS sizing. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app for the latest updates on releases, raffles, and more in the sneaker and streetwear scenes.
Nike Kobe 5 Protro LNY University Red
Images via Nike
Images via Chris Colgan
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Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com
