In 2023, it's nearly impossible to watch an NBA game without spotting at least one pair of Kobe's iconic Nike shoes on the court. From the highly coveted Kobe 6 'Grinch' to other popular colorways such as the recently revealed 'Mambacita' and 'BHM,' these sneakers continue to captivate players and fans alike. First introduced in 2010, the Nike Kobe 6 remains a staple in Nike's basketball lineup thanks to its distinctive snake-like skin design and exceptional comfort provided by two Zoom Air units in the heel and forefoot.
Kobe sneakers have become a rare commodity for both NBA players and consumers. Coveted models like the 'Grinch' and 'Mambacita' often fetch over $700 in most sizes on sneaker marketplaces, making them a significant investment for basketball enthusiasts.
Despite their scarcity, NBA players continue to sport Kobe sneakers on the court. Data from @thesoledrop and @kixstatscom reveals that Nike Kobe Protros account for 2 of the top 5 most worn sneakers during the current NBA season. The Nike Kobe Protro reigns supreme with over 31,000 minutes logged on court, while the Nike Kobe 5 Protro holds the 4th spot with over 20,000 minutes. Unsurprisingly, Nike basketball dominates this list, and fans eagerly await the release of more Kobe models.
Image via @boardroom
As we anticipate the return of Kobe models in 2023, are you excited to see what other colorways return? Take a look at a few of my personal on-court favorites below. To learn more about upcoming Kobe releases and stay up-to-date with the latest sneaker news, be sure to follow us on Instagram and Twitter.