Kobe 6 Protro

Snakeskin Low-Top Levels Up

Reviving the scaly 2010 fan favorite, the Kobe 6 Protro debuted in 2021 at $180 and quickly became one of the most sought-after low-tops on the market. The reptilian-textured upper that made the original a design landmark returned largely intact, but the cushioning saw the meaningful upgrade: Nike replaced the OG's Phylon and small heel Zoom with a Cushlon midsole and a forefoot Zoom Air Turbo unit spanning the ball of the foot. The result is a smooth, responsive, low-to-the-ground ride with enough protection to stay fresh deep into games. The snake-scale outsole earns near-universal acclaim, elite multidirectional bite once broken in, though the soft translucent rubber demands clean indoor courts. Limited 'Reverse Grinch,' 'Mambacita,' and All-Star releases drove hype and resale prices sky-high. Reviewers' main gripe wasn't the shoe but its scarcity. For many, it's simply one of the best Kobe performers ever made.