Nike Kobe 8 Protro "Mambacurial" Is Returning Next Year
Expected to arrive next fall.
Name: Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Mambacurial”
Colorway: Red Plum/Electric Green-Pink Flash
SKU: IO6253-500
MSRP: $200 USD
Release Date: Fall 2026
Where to Buy: Nike
One of the most conceptually ambitious sneakers in the Mamba lineage, the Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Mambacurial,” is scheduled to make its long-awaited return in Fall 2026. This distinctive colorway is a brilliant dual-sport tribute, merging Kobe Bryant’s legendary on-court intensity with the visual language of Nike‘s high-speed Mercurial football (soccer) boot.
The design, which was released in 2013, is engineered for both speed and storytelling. The upper utilizes a vibrant, high-contrast palette—often featuring electric pinks, reds, and greens—that is immediately recognizable from the soccer pitch. A striking feature is the massive, bold Swoosh that dramatically swoops across the toe box toward the heel, a direct visual transplant from the Mercurial silhouette. This visual fusion acknowledges Kobe’s global perspective and his passion for the international sport.
The Kobe 8 Protro remains a favorite for its ultra-light, low-cut profile and superior cushioning, which allow for explosive, quick-change movements on the court. Its re-release in the “Mambacurial” aesthetic solidifies its status not just as a performance shoe but as a cultural artifact. The impending retro drop is a must-have for collectors who appreciate the unique intersection of basketball greatness and international sport design and is expected to arrive next fall.
