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After Kobe Bryant retired from the NBA, the Black Mamba wanted to ensure that his signature sneaker line could be worn in the modern game. Enter the Protro (performance retro), which was first introduced in 2019 with the Nike Kobe 1 Protro, a re-release of older Nike Kobe sneakers that are virtually untouched on the outside but overhauled internally.
This philosophy has even extended outside of the performance basketball space with the Air Force 1 getting this treatment twice so far in 2025, once in collaboration with FC Barcelona and another inspired by Kobe’s iconic photo taking free throws in his pajamas. Sole Retriever can report that come 2026, multiple new Kobe Air Force 1 Protro colorways are expected to hit shelves, including a Black Lemon Venom colorway.
Pictured is a speculative mock-up of the upcoming Nike Kobe Air Force 1 Low Protro Black Lemon Venom. Even though we don’t have an actual picture of the sneaker, we do know the sneaker will feature black and lemon venom shades on its upper, somewhat similar to the Kobe Mamba Fury from 2020. The faux snakeskin upper will be coated in black hues across its toe, mudguard, eyestays, midfoot panel, and heel overlay. Pops of lemon venom appear on the lace set, tongue, Swoosh, sockliner, Kobe sheath logo on the heel, his signature on the black sole unit, and on the rubber outsole.
With the Protro moniker, the pair will come upgraded in multiple ways. The traditional Air-cushioned sole unit is supplemented with a drop-in ReactX foam insole, while the outsole now features a new traction pattern with Kobe sheath logos instead of stars. Bryant’s signature also replaces the AIR text on the lateral sole unit, and more Kobe branding is applied to the tongue tag.
The Nike Kobe Air Force 1 Low Protro Black Lemon Venom will release Spring 2026 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $150. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
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
