Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro ‘Christmas’ Reintroduces Iconic Kicks Celebrating 10 Years

‘Tis the season for sneaker enthusiasts to unwrap a decade-old classic as Nike reintroduces the iconic Kobe 9 Elite Protro ‘Christmas.’ In a twist of holiday fate, this sneaker, which first captured attention on the feet of the Los Angeles Lakers a decade ago, is set to make a return in 2024 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of this iconic release.

The journey of the Kobe 9 Protro ‘Christmas’ began in 2014, a pivotal year in the evolution of Kobe Bryant’s signature sneaker line. Departing from the low-cut trend, this edition embraced a high-top design influenced by Manny Pacquiao’s boxing shoes. The $225 sneaker showcased a bold Flyknit upper with red and white accents, green stitching on the heel, and black Swoosh logos. Despite Kobe’s limited appearances in this model due to injuries, it became an instant hit, with teammate Nick Young stepping up as its on-court ambassador.

Fast forward to 2024, and the Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro ‘Christmas’ re-emerges in a vibrant, Bright Crimson, Black, and White color palette. The Flyknit upper mirrors the festive hues of Christmas stockings, with crimson red and white accents creating a striking visual impact. The sock-like design, complete with Flywire technology, promises a snug fit for optimal performance on the court. The sleek Black Swoosh and Mamba branding pay homage to Kobe’s enduring legacy.

If the speculation holds true, this release will join the ranks of other Kobe 9 Elite Protros, bringing back the carbon fiber heel counter and Dynamic Flywire cables that defined the original model. While midsole foam and traction patterns may see updates, the visual aesthetic is expected to remain faithful to the 2014 version, capturing the holiday spirit with Bright Crimson, Black, and White tones.

For those eager to secure a pair of the Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro ‘Christmas,’ the sneakers are expected to hit select Nike Basketball retailers in-store, online, and on Nike.com. The iconic pair is expected to retail between $200 to $250, offering enthusiasts a chance to own a piece of basketball and holiday history.