Quick Facts
- As Nike continues to run through Protro versions of Kobe’s signature models in a never-ending retro cycle, the AD is getting its return
- The Nike Kobe AD Protro Purple Stardust features a one-piece reinforced mesh upper in monochrome purple with added stitching over the toebox, vamp, and side panels that remind us a bit of the Sabrina 3
- The Nike Kobe AD Protro Purple Stardust will be released October 23, 2026
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When Kobe Bryant retired from the NBA, it hit the league like an extinction event. A passing of the torch to LeBron and the younger generation, Kobe’s final year was met with one of the sport’s most memorable farewell tours, culminating in a 60 piece against the Jazz in his final game. Bryant may have been finished with the league, but Nike was nowhere near done with the Kobe sneaker line, and the first shoe to drop after the Black Mamba slithered out of the league was the Nike Kobe AD.
As Nike continues to run through Protro versions of Kobe’s signature models in a never-ending retro cycle, the AD is getting its return, starting with a Purple Stardust colorway that first dropped in 2017. The Nike Kobe AD Protro Purple Stardust features a one-piece reinforced mesh upper in monochrome purple with added stitching over the toebox, vamp, and side panels that remind us a bit of the Sabrina 3.
The heel keeps the same purple color but changes to suede for a slight switch-up, and a darker, speckled purple on the midsole. The purple blend is interrupted by black on the side panel Swoosh, the Kobe sheath tongue logo, and the outsole for a clean two-tone mix.
The Nike Kobe AD Protro Purple Stardust will be released October 23, 2026 through Nike and select retailers in-store and online. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $155. For all the latest Nike Kobe news and drop info, download the Sole Retriever mobile app.
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
