Quick Facts
- Kobe Bryant's Nike Kobe 8 Mambacurial is returning in Protro form
- Taking after the Nike Mercurial soccer line, the medial side of the Kobe 8 Protro features a large Nike logo in white block letters
- The Kobe 8 Protro Mombacurial will be released September 19, 2026
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Kobe might have graduated from high school in the Philly suburbs, but major parts of his childhood were spent in Italy, and it’s no secret that he absorbed the country’s love for soccer. Bringing the same intensity to his soccer fandom that he did to the basketball court, Kobe used his Nike sponsorship to incorporate his love for the global game into his signature sneaker line, most notably in the Kobe 8 Mambacurial. Now, 13 years after its debut, the soccer cleat-inspired colorway is making its return in a Protro shell.
The Kobe 8 Protro Mambacurial is an exact retro of the 2013 colorway, but uses the updated materials, cushion, and support of the Protro model. Starting with a candy-colored gradient that starts with pink at the toe and evolves into a pinkish purple by the time it reaches the heel, the bright blend is hit with even more highlighter hues with volt green on the Swoosh that covers the lateral side and toecap, the Kobe sheath tongue logo, and the outsole. Black on the midsole and laces adds a bit of muted color to the otherwise loud pair.
Taking after the Nike Mercurial soccer line, the medial side of the Kobe 8 Protro features a large Nike logo in white block letters. Kobe famously skipped college and went straight to the NBA after high school, but in a different timeline, if he put his mind to it, we have full confidence Kobe could’ve been a global soccer star just as easily. The retro coming next year also makes sense as the World Cup is coming to North America.
The Nike Kobe 8 Protro Mambacurial will be released September 19, 2026 through Nike and select retailers in-store and online. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $200. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay up to date on all the latest Kobe Nike news.
Zach Harris is a writer based in Philadelphia. His work has appeared in Rolling Stone, Vice, Complex, High Times, and more. He is obsessed with skateboarding and bowling. He is still looking for his first 300. For tips, reviews, and anything in size 10.5 - zach.h@soleretriever.com
