Nike could be expanding its Kobe Protro line with the Kobe 5. According to @kb824 on Instagram, the popular "Chaos" colorway of Kobe Bryant's fifth Nike signature sneaker is arriving this December.
The original "Chaos" Kobe 5 dropped in 2010 to much fanfare, thanks to its colorway inspired by Batman's arch nemesis, the Joker. Pairs have held their value over time too with listings currently at $600 on Flight Club. The inspiration was also used earlier this year on the "Mamba Mentality" Kyrie 5 to celebrate Mamba Day 2019, but this would be the first time the colorway gets a true retro release.
Like past Protro releases, expect the exterior to look identical to its predecessor, but feature modern performance upgrades. Stay tuned as more information becomes available regarding this potential holiday release. The pair is currently rumored to drop on Dec. 26.
UPDATE (11/23): With the rumored release just a month away, we now have an official look at this year's return of the Nike Zoom Kobe 5 in the "Chaos." As of now, specific modifications to this upcoming pair have not yet been announced by Nike but similar to previous Protro releases, fans can generally expect improved performance upgrades to the shoe. Stay tuned to Sole Collector for updates.
UPDATE (12/19): Nike has officially confirmed that Kobe Bryant's fifth signature basketball sneaker is receiving the "Protro" treatment. Bringing modern tech upgrades to the iconic model includes a simplified construction for a softer feel while maintaining support and increasing impact protection. Updates to the tooling include a bigger Zoom Air unit in the forefoot and softer foam in the midsole. Capping off the design is the outsole's traction pattern, which has been scaled down to increase the surface area for grip. The "Chaos" Nike Kobe 5 "Protro" debuts on Jan. 3, 2020 on Nike.com and at select Nike Basketball retailers.
