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Nike introduced the world to the Nike Kobe 5 Protro back in 2020, only the second sneaker (at the time) to receive the performance retro upgrade. Half a decade later, and the Protro philosophy has expanded across seven Nike Kobe sneakers and to the Nike Air Force 1 Low. While we know the Nike Dunk Low Protro is launching in 2026 with a pack of colors inspired by Kobe Bryant’s high school, Lower Merion, alongside a two-pack of AF1s, the Nike Kobe 5 Protro will also join in on the celebrations.
If this sounds familiar to you, you’ve got a good memory. During the Kobe 5’s original run in 2010, Nike dropped a Lower Merion Aces colorway, which is the exact pair expected to return in Protro form in 2026. Obviously with the Protro moniker attached, the sneaker is launching in upgraded fashion, including a Zoom Turbo Air unit in the forefoot, softer foam in the midsole, a scaled-down traction pattern, and simplified construction on the upper.
Even with the tooling and build of the sneaker being upgraded for the modern game, the silhouette will be identical to the 2010 release in terms of its color scheme. A metallic silver, white, and red combo, not too far off from Caitlin Clark’s Nike Kobe 5 Protro Rookie of the Year PE, graces the upper. Metallic silver hues dominate the midfoot panel, while the fused overlays, sockliner, Kobe sheath logo, and portions of the midsole are rendered in team red. Finishing the design are pops of white on the heel and sole unit.
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro Lower Merion Aces will be released in Spring 2026 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $200. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Image via sneaker_sample
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
