Vanessa Bryant Teases Nike Kobe 6 Protro PE

After Kobe Bryant’s tragic passing in January 2020, his partnership with Nike entered a period of uncertainty and Vanessa Bryant and the Bryant estate opted not to renew their deal with Nike in April 2021, citing concerns over the limited availability of Kobe’s products and a desire for greater accessibility for fans. However, in March 2022, Vanessa announced a renewed agreement with Nike to continue producing Kobe and Gianna Bryant-branded footwear and apparel. Since then, sneakerheads have been treated to a stream of Kobe releases, although the latest from Vanessa Bryant looks like it might be exclusively for players.

Teased in the lead up to the NBA All Star Game in 2025, the Nike Kobe 6 Protro PE features a signature serpentine composition, this time including a purple gradient along the uppers. Over on the interior lining and the heels (beneath the exterior heel support cage), a checkerboard pattern of purple and lavender again extends the aubergine theme.

For it’s part, the Kobe 6 is a legendary edition in Kobe’s sneaker arsenal. Originally released in 2010, the performance shoe introduced a low-cut silhouette inspired by Bryant’s preference for lightweight, responsive footwear. One of its most distinctive features is the scaly polyurethane upper, designed to mimic a snake’s skin – a homage to Kobe’s 'Black Mamba' persona.

There are no other confirmed details on the purple Nike Kobe 6 Protro PE, but stay locked to SF for any developments.

In the meantime, check out our full roundup of this year’s Valentine’s Day drops.