Kobe Bryant’s legacy transcends the confines of the basketball court, etching itself indelibly into the annals of sports history. His influence extends far beyond his peers, as he has become a veritable paragon of discipline, focus, and unwavering determination.

Mamba Day, commemorated annually on 24 August, serves as a poignant tribute to Bryant’s extraordinary life and enduring legacy. It is not solely his family who carry the torch of his inspiration; countless basketball players aspire to emulate the Black Mamba’s unparalleled heights of achievement.

Preceding the special Nike Kobe 9 Protro EM “Halo” pack, which marks this year’s Mamba Day commemoration, Nike has reintroduced a series of his signature shoes, including the “Gold Medal” and “Philly” Nike Kobe 4 Protro, to the “Italian Camo” Kobe 6, and “Venice Beach” Kobe 8.

While these revivals have delighted his legion of fans, there remains a wealth of equally iconic Nike Kobe models that yearn for a homecoming. As the year unfolds, we anticipate the reintroduction of these cherished silhouettes, each a testament to Bryant’s enduring legacy and Nike’s commitment to honoring his memory.

In no particular order, here are ten iconic Nike Kobe shoes that deserve a revival:

In the wake of a devastating Achilles tendon rupture, Bryant demanded a footwear solution that would not only support his injury but also elevate his performance. The result was the Nike Kobe 9, a radical, ultra-high-top design, a collaborative effort between Bryant and the esteemed designer Eric Avar. Even the sutures on the back served as a poignant reminder of the athlete’s surgical ordeal.

While the initial high-top iteration proved impractical for everyday wear, Nike’s decision to create a low-top version transformed public perception. The Flyknit upper, paired with a substantial midsole, struck a harmonious balance of comfort and performance.

This equilibrium was further refined through a collaboration with HTM, a triumvirate of design luminaries: Hiroshi Fujiwara, Tinker Hatfield, and Matt Parker. The Kobe 9 Elite Low was available in four captivating colorways. While Nike would revisit the HTM collaboration on the Kobe 10, the impact and buzz of the Kobe 9 Elite Low remained unparalleled.

The iconic commercial of Kobe Bryant leaping over a moving Aston Martin in a pair of Nike Hyperdunks, while a cinematic fabrication, has indelibly etched itself into the annals of basketball culture. This audacious stunt served as the inspiration for one of the most popular projects in the Nike Kobe lineage.

Although this particular list focuses solely on the Kobe 5 component of the two-piece “Aston Martin” pack, the Hyperdunk would undoubtedly claim a prominent position if included.

Limited to a mere 500 units, the pair—originally priced at a remarkably affordable US$300—is one of the most exclusive Nike Kobe releases ever produced, with its lofty resale value is a testament to its desirability.

The gunmetal grey and deep burgundy color scheme exudes an air of luxury, perfectly echoing the aesthetic of the Aston Martin brand. The carmaker’s logo, discreetly placed on the Hyperdunk’s tongue beneath Bryant’s name, further reinforces this automotive-inspired theme.

Following the unparalleled success of its predecessor, Nike’s 2011 Kobe 7 “Christmas” sneaker emerged as a worthy successor. Amplifying the predator themes inherent in the Kobe 7, the shoe boasted a striking purple cheetah-spotted upper accented by vibrant volt detailing, evoking a subtle connection to the “Grinch” 6.

For those prioritizing performance, the “Supreme” designation signified a versatile design featuring interchangeable inserts tailored to accommodate both speed-based and power-oriented playstyles.

The most intriguing aspect of the Kobe 7 “Christmas” is its role in inspiring an extremely rare Nike Air Yeezy “sample”. Initially intended for Kobe Bryant to don during the 2012 All-Star Weekend, these elusive sneakers remained largely unseen until 2019, when PJ Tucker showcased them at a Kith fashion show.

The resurrection of the Nike Kobe line as retro models was not a foregone conclusion. The Swoosh’s decision to embark on this endeavor, commencing in 2013 with the “Prelude” collection, was a pleasant surprise. This comprehensive retrospective, encompassing silhouettes from the first to the eighth signature shoes, was an unconventional approach, deviating from the typical practice of introducing retro models one at a time.

The “Prelude” collection served as a tribute to specific milestones in Bryant’s illustrious career. While some models, such as the Kobe 3 and the Kobe 8, were less anticipated, others were elevated through the introduction of striking, aggressive colorways. Among the standout offerings was the Kobe 5, a silhouette that celebrated Bryant’s fifth championship with a vibrant pop-art aesthetic.

The 2012 NBA All-Star Game marked the zenith of Nike Basketball, with the introduction of the iconic “Galaxy” collection. While the Foamposites and “Big Bang” LeBron 8s garnered much acclaim, the Kobe 7 “Galaxy” emerged as a worthy contender.

Distinguishing itself from its predecessor, the Kobe 6, through its innovative Kobe System insole and distinctive upper patterns, the Kobe 7 “Galaxy” showcased a celestial motif that perfectly complemented the collection’s theme.

Bryant’s decision to wear the Kobe 7 “Galaxy” during the 2012 All-Star Game added a layer of significance. The game, a rollercoaster of emotions for both Bryant and his fans, culminated in his breaking the all-time All-Star Game scoring record.

Despite a nose fracture and mild concussion courtesy of Dwyane Wade, Bryant’s resilience and determination were on full display. His on-court rivalry with Paul Pierce and LeBron James further heightened the drama and intensity of the event.

In 2009, Bryant’s Christmas Day sneaker hadn’t gone full “Grinch” mode yet, instead opting for a different theme altogether. This Nike Kobe 5 was inspired by DC Comics supervillain the Joker, although not an officially licensed collaboration. Specifically, it was said to take inspiration from Heath Ledger’s portrayal of the villain in Christopher Nolan’s 2008 film The Dark Knight.

True to its theme, the pair mimicked the character’s clown-like white makeup on the upper with red-speckled shoelaces (and a small hit on the outsole) representing his smile. The bulk of the upper is draped purple and green, seemingly standing in for both his hair and outfits.

Ten years after its original launch, the “Chaos” colorway was the first Kobe 5 to release during the model’s 2019 Protro run and hit stores just weeks before Bryant’s tragic death, gaining a new significance as collectors, fans, and (sadly) resellers looked to get their hands on anything and everything Kobe-related.

It was also given a spinoff “Chaos Alternate” colorway that was awarded to players who completed an in-game challenge in NBA 2K20.

Undefeated has forged a deep-rooted partnership with the Nike Kobe line, resulting in an impressive portfolio of over twenty collaborative footwear designs. The zenith of this collaboration was reached with seven distinct variations of the Kobe 1 Protro.

Five of these iterations are dressed in camouflage patterns, while the rest in a black/white/gum colorway and the brand’s signature “Flight Jacket” aesthetic. While one of the camouflage variations enjoyed a wider retail release, the remaining four were surprise SNKRS Pass drops launched on Kobe Day in 2018.

Undefeated’s connection to the Kobe 1 model extends beyond these recent collaborations. In 2006, the brand participated in a design contest alongside Alife, HUF, Nort, Saint Alfred, and Premium Goods. Although Premium Goods ultimately emerged victorious, Undefeated’s involvement further solidified its association with the iconic silhouette, adding an extra layer of significance to their subsequent collaborations.

Several of Bryant’s most iconic sneakers are inextricably linked to his most memorable games, serving as historical artifacts and aspirational symbols for everyday wearers. Among these are the “Fade to Black” and “Black Mamba” versions of the Kobe 11, worn during his final NBA game, hold a particularly special place.

The “Fade to Black” colorway, featuring a black upper adorned with a regal gold Swoosh, was part of a broader initiative to reintroduce every Kobe signature shoe as Bryant’s retirement approached in 2016. While the shoe’s design was relatively understated, Nike added a poignant touch by stamping the heel with the date of “April 13, 2016”, commemorating the occasion.

Bryant’s farewell performance, another dazzling masterclass, was capped off with a historic 60-point outburst. As the final minutes ticked away, his every basket sent the Staples Center crowd into a frenzy. This “Fade to Black” Nike Kobe 11, forever associated with this unforgettable game, became an instant classic, selling out immediately upon its release.

While Bryant’s on-court legacy comprise a myriad of accomplishments, his unparalleled scoring prowess remains his most indelible mark. For 20 years, he averaged an astonishing 25 points per game, including consecutive scoring titles in 2006 and 2007. His ascent to the third-highest scorer in NBA history, surpassing Michael Jordan in 2014, cemented his status as one of the greatest offensive players of all time.

Amidst this illustrious career, one game stands out as a testament to Bryant’s extraordinary scoring ability: his 81-point performance against the Toronto Raptors on January 22, 2006. Worn during this historic feat, the white, purple, and black Nike Zoom Kobe 1s became synonymous with Bryant’s unparalleled achievement.

Despite its unassuming appearance and Lakers-centric colorway, the sneaker worn by Bryant that night was initially unavailable to the public. As was common during that era, Bryant frequently wore player-exclusive colorways. After years of anticipation, the pair finally received a Protro release on 22 January 22 2019, marking the 13th anniversary of the historic game.

Kobe Bryant’s signature Nike sneakers often paid homage to iconic figures who inspired his greatness. Among these influential figures, martial arts legend Bruce Lee held a particularly special place. Bryant’s admiration for Lee extended beyond superficial appreciation, encompassing a deep-seated fascination with his work. He voraciously consumed Lee’s media output and even trained in Jeet Kune Do, the hybrid martial arts style founded by Lee, to enhance his discipline and acuity.

The parallels between Bryant and Lee, both obsessively competitive in their respective fields, are undeniable. In 2010, Bryant honored his muse with a special makeup of the Nike Kobe 5. Drawing inspiration from two of Lee’s most celebrated films, the bold yellow and black colorway referenced his attire from Game of Death, while the forefoot claw marks symbolized his war wounds from Enter the Dragon. To further emphasize the connection, Nike and Bryant replicated vintage Lee movie posters to promote the release.

The “Bruce Lee” Kobe 5 swiftly became one of Bryant’s most coveted colorways. Its enduring appeal led to its reintroduction in various forms, including the Kobe 9 EM and Kobe 11. The influence of this iconic design extended beyond Bryant’s signature line, inspiring Kyrie Irving’s “Mamba Mentality” collection. In 2020, the “Bruce Lee” Kobe 5 made a highly anticipated return alongside a white-based alternate version.

---

For the latest releases, breaking news, and exclusive interviews, stay tuned to the SNKRDUNK Magazine and @snkrdunk on Instagram. Explore the SNKRDUNK App too and don’t forget to use our welcome code from the banner below before making your first purchase. Additionally, if you would like to try a pair out, visit our stores in Singapore and Japan!

---

More SNKRDUNK Features:
A Guide to the Best ASICS Onitsuka Tigers: Mexico 66, and More!
ASICS Tennis Shoes: Best Picks for Men and Women, Technology, and Care Tips
[SNKRDUNK Selects] Shop Back-to-School Deals for 2024
Top-Rated Business Casual Sneakers for Office
The Best ASICS Running Shoes To Grace Your Feet