Kobe Bryant's fifth signature sneaker is making a return to retailers in 2020 and there a number of classic styles, as well as brand new colorways, in the works. Of course, this was planned well before the tragic news of Kobe's passing but we have to believe Nike will honor the Black Mamba by continuing to release his beloved sneakers to the public.
Among the Kobe V Protros on deck for 2020 is a special edition joint that combines both "Home" and "Away" versions of the "Big Stage" colorway, along with elements from Kobe's "Parade" PE.
The yet-to-be-named Kobe V Protro comes equipped with a unique split design - the right shoe featuring a white lateral side and a black graphic on the medial side, while the left shoe flips the script. The laser-etched detailing, pulled from The Black Mamba's "Parade" PE, is accompanied by gold accents throughout, similar to the "Big Stage" colorway.
Nike has not yet announced official release details but this colorway lines up with the Kobe V that is scheduled to launch on February 7th. Stay tuned for updates and click here to preview the upcoming Undefeated x Nike Kobe V pack.
Sleazy Sneaker Resellers Are Trying To Cash In On Kobe Bryant’s Death
Some Kobe sneakers are now listed for 4x their typical resale price.
Kobe Bryant's signature sneakers are among the most popular basketball kicks, both in NBA circles and with fans who grew up watching the Black Mamba. In the aftermath of Bryant's tragic death, Kobe stans, sneakerheads and casual fans alike will surely look to add another pair to their collection as they mourn the loss of the Laker legend.
Unfortunately, there are quite a few sleazy resellers who have jacked up the prices of their Kobe sneakers following the helicopter crash.
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According to Complex, some Kobe sneakers are already listed for more than 4x the amount that they typically resell for. For instance, Bryant's "Dunk Contest" Adidas Crazy 97 EQT, which typically resells for an average of $280, just sold for $1,000. As a result, other resellers are starting to follow suit while Kobe supporters continue to grieve.
In an effort to combat sellers capitalizing on Kobe's passing, some consignment shops are implementing strict policies on all Kobe gear. Complex reports that Urban Necessities sent the following message to consignors on Monday.
"Due to the recent passing of Kobe Bryant and out of respect for his family and legacy, we will not allow price changes on Kobe items that are consigned. If you have increased prices on Kobe items, we will be reverting the price back to the original listing price. If you feel this is unacceptable and would like to request a return of your item(s), click the link below to login to your account, click "Dashboard" at the top and select "Return Request."
Kobe Bryant’s Nike Kobe V “Chaos” Returns Today: Purchase Links
"Chaos" Kobe V Protro set to drop at 10am ET.
Nike has begun the process of re-releasing some of Kobe Bryant's classic sneakers, something Kobe stans have long been waiting for. It started with the Kobe 1 Protro in 2018 and continued throughout 2019 with the Kobe 4 Protros. Now, Nike and Kobe are shifting their focus to the beloved Kobe V.
The Joker-inspired "Chaos" colorway, which Kobe debuted on Christmas Day in 2009, will be available once again starting today, January 3, at 10am ET. The kicks, priced at $180, will be available at select retailers including Nike SNKRS and Foot Locker. Check out the early purchase links below.
It is also being reported that the Kobe V Protro will be releasing in a "White, Black, and Metallic Gold" colorway. That particular color scheme lines up with the "Big Stage" Nike Kobe V that debuted in 2010, though it remains to be seen exactly when that Kobe V Protro will be available.
Stay tuned for updates as there will surely be plenty more Kobe V colorways returning to retailers throughout the year.