Kobe 4 Protro

Low-Top Blueprint Returns

Released in February 2019 at $175, the Protro revival of the 2009 original arrived as a faithful homage rather than a reinvention. Designer Eric Avar's low-top, widely credited with normalizing low-cut basketball footwear, kept its Phylon midsole and large heel Zoom Air unit, with only a slightly softer foam density separating it from the OG. The intent was nostalgia executed correctly: the same lockdown, court feel, and legendary full-length herringbone bite hoopers remembered. Early colorways leaned on Lakers and Mamba heritage, with the 'FTB' snakeskin pack among the standouts. Reviewers praised the traction and glove-like fit but split on value, noting the flat, cushionless forefoot felt dated beside modern foam setups. Most agreed it remained a stellar low-top for quick guards who prize stability and ground contact over plush impact protection.