Get ready, sneakerheads! The Nike Kobe 5 Protro “X-Ray” is officially set to launch on October 17, 2024, via the Nike SNKRS app and select Foot Locker stores. With a $180 price tag for adults and $120 for grade school sizes, the new release blends retro inspiration with a modern glow-in-the-dark design. The sneakers will fly off the shelves, so if you miss out, platforms like GOAT will be your best bet for a second opportunity.
This launch isn't just about footwear, but also a tribute to Kobe Bryant’s strength, personified by Nike’s “Broken Not Beaten” campaign. Along with the kicks, the collection will also feature three graphic t-shirts, indicating the campaign’s original X-ray-inspired imagination.
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Here, we break down the details of these sneakers:
Glow-in-the-dark skeletal design caters to performance technology
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro "X-Ray" brings back the sleek, low-top silhouette from 2010 with some latest updates. The deep royal blue upper is designed with contrast Baltic Blue accents on the Swoosh and Kobe logos.
But what does stand out?
The Glacier Blue skeleton graphic that glows in the dark, is an ideal assent to the X-ray theme.
Performance-wise, the shoe shows off a cushion midsole for better comfort, replacing the Phylon material. A Zoom Air unit in the forefoot gives it a responsive cushioning, perfect for swift movements.
The Flywire cables installed into the upper offer midfoot lockdown, while the translucent rubber outsole, which glows in the dark, gives an excellent multi-directional traction. Whether you are a player or sneakerhead, these shoes bring style as well as functionality to your collection.
A tribute to Kobe’s legendary career and "Broken Not Beaten" campaign
This launch isn’t just another colorway, but rather a steeped in history. The “X-Ray” theme pays tribute to Kobe Bryant’s resilience through injuries, resonating with the “Broken Not Beaten” campaign from 2011.
Earlier, Nike highlighted X-rays of Kobe’s hand, featuring fractures, torn ligaments, and even his five championship rings. It was not just a mere marketing tactic, but also a statement of strength that echoed loudly with athletes and fans.
Alongside the kicks, Nike is dropping three t-shirts with designs from the original campaign, making the collection more attractive to long-time fans. These tees, like the shoes, showcase the legacy of Kobe’s grit and willpower, a message that is relevant to date to athletes everywhere.
The progression of the Kobe 5 Protro: Latest colorways for a new generation
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro made its comeback in 2019 with better technology, and the “X-Ray” is a recent one in a series of fresh launches. The “X-Ray” colorway presents new fans with a glimpse into Kobe’s legacy while giving old-school kick fanatics something fresh to yearn for.
With only a few upgrades to the sneakers’ original design, like the better cushioning and improved Flywire system, Nike pictures that the original model was ahead of its time. Each launch continues to strike the ideal balance of nostalgia with innovation, keeping Kobe’s legacy alive everywhere.
With its historical inspiration, bold design, and performance-driven characteristics, the Nike Kobe 5 Protro “X-Ray” is much more than a mere sneaker—it’s a piece of Kobe’s legacy. As enthusiasm rises ahead of the official launch on October 17, fans are prepared to act quickly, across online and retail stores.
If you miss out on the initial drop, don't worry, resale platforms will be stocked with pairs, though at a bit higher than the original prices. Whether you’re an athlete, sneaker enthusiast, or long-time Kobe fan, this release has something for everyone.
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