Nike is Bringing Back The Kobe 4 Protro “Del Sol”

Nike’s Protro line has revived some of Kobe Bryant‘s most classic signature Swoosh silhouettes over the past few years, and now the latest pair to make a triumphant return is the Nike Kobe 4 Protro “Del Sol.” A makeup that first released a full decade ago in 2009, the “Del Sol” nods slightly to the Lake Show’s alternate jerseys with its white base and yellow/black accents. It’s certainly a product of its time, with visible Flywire covering the entire quarter — much in the same way it did on the original Nike Hyperdunk, which debuted a year before in 2008 — and yellow contrast stitching around the black collar. A bold midfoot Swoosh adds branded flair, and two-tone black/yellow laces lock in the color palette. Although the shoe may be ten years old, the tech still stands up to the rigors of the current-day game: apart from the aforementioned Flywire, the Kobe 4 also offers a plastic heel clip for extra stability and Zoom Air in the midsole for responsive cushioning. The Mamba’s first-ever shoe to feature a low-top cut, many modern-day Nike shoes owe the Kobe 4 a debt of gratitude for shifting the performance basketball market away from the bold high-tops that were common in the ’00s. Look for these Kobe 4 Protros to release on Nike.com May 24th for $175 USD.