[Update 20 Apr 2023] Weeks shy of its 1 May release date, official images of the renamed Nike Kobe 4 Protro “Mambacita” have surfaced. All its minutiae on full display. There’s the “GIGI” tribute on the heel tab, eyelets, and most solemnly on the footbed with a seraphic depiction. It’s definitely one for the honest fan and collector.

[Update 22 Feb 2023] More images have emerged of the “Gigi” Kobe 4 Proto thanks to @kicksdong. There’ve been some on-feet looks in the first wave of leaks but this new set offers a view of the herringbone pattern on the outsole underfoot. More interestingly, a release date has floated around pointing to 1 May. Nike hasn’t given word about the pair in any official capacity but when they do, you’ll hear about it here at this very page. Stay tuned!

It’s been three years since the tragedy that shook the world. Although they’re gone, Kobe Bryant and daughter Gigi are immortalized. Nike plays their part in honoring their legacy by producing dedicated models. Following up on the “Mambacita Sweet 16” Kobe 6 Protro comes the titular Kobe 4 Protro “Gigi”, a pair dedicated to Gianna Bryant.

The palette flips the script of its predecessor arriving in a predominantly white color scheme. Hits of black adorn the shoe on the laces, interior, and the profile Swooshes.

Aside from the Mamba logo on the tongue, personal branding takes centerstage, albeit at the rear. One is the embossed Kobe Bryant signature on the TPU heel cage. For Gigi, it’s the “GIGI” embroidery on the heel tab where it presides over the plaid-patterned panel, and the “2” imprint on the heel counter, her jersey number.

Herringbone pattern marks the outsole underfoot with a singular red Swoosh at the middle.

They’re expected to be released on 1 May this year for a US$180 price tag. Find them on Nike SNKRS then when the day comes to pass.

Elsewhere Nike, check out the Swarovski crystal-studded Nike Ja 1 “Midnight”.