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Kobe Bryant’s famous sneaker free agency period after he left adidas in 2002 saw the Black Mamba lace up a slew of Nikes, Jordans, and Reeboks, ultimately signing with The Swoosh in 2003. Before his actual signature sneaker line kicked off in 2005, Bryant was the face of the then-all-new Nike Air Zoom Huarache 2K4. Fans of the model will be pleased to hear that the Zoom Huarache 2K4 in the All-Star colorway will be returning in Spring 2026.
Some extra context for the Air Zoom Huarache 2K4. The model was designed by the legendary Eric Avar, who is responsible for some of the most iconic Nike Basketball models like the Air Flight Huarache, Air Flightposite, Zoom Flight 95, and every single Nike Kobe sneaker from the Kobe 3 onwards. He and Kobe Bryant’s relationship essentially began with the Zoom Huarache 2K4, which became Kobe’s go-to sneaker in the 2003-04 season before switching to the 2K5 and eventually his sneaker line in 2006.
The model itself combines design details and aesthetics from the Air Force 1 and Air Flight Huarache. Huarache influence is clearly seen via the collar’s design and the internal neoprene bootie construction, while the leather paneling and Swoosh logo is drawn from the AF1. Tech specs were top-tier for the era, featuring a Phylon midsole, Zoom Air units in the forefoot and heel, and a carbon fiber shank for stability.
As for the All-Star colorway, Nike released the pair in February 2004 to coincide with the NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles. Kobe famously wore the colorway in the game, and it would later retro in 2016 as Bryant was preparing to retire from the league. A special nod to the All-Star game is found on the interior lining of the tongue, while the upper is doused in white and blue hues and accented by red on the sole unit.
The Nike Air Zoom Huarache 2K4 All-Star will return February 17, 2026 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $210. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
2016 Images via Nike
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
