A Dazzling Nike Kobe Sneaker From 2014 Is Coming Back for the First Time
As news of next year’s return for the Nike Kobe 1 Protro “81 Games” has emerged, word has also come for the first-ever rerelease for a striking pair of Kobe 8s from 2014.
The Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Year of the Horse” will come in 2026 as the Zodiac cycle returns to the same place from 12 years prior. Almost made to look as if it was constructed with sequins, this bright red sneaker makes use of a brushed pattern throughout its upper. Gold branding and Swoosh bring a great deal of contrast, as does a translucent blue outsole to match the lining. On the inner side of the tongue, you’ll find the Hanzi symbol for horse.
Images of the “Year of the Horse” Kobe Protro have yet to leaked, but the report of its return comes from trusted sneaker leaker zSneakerHeadz. The photos here are of the original and only release from 2014.
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Although several Nike Kobe sneakers released with China-inspired colorways prior, some of which were exclusive to the country, the Zodiac series first came to Kobe Bryant‘s signature line in in 2012 with the Kobe 7 “Year of the Dragon.” The Kobe 8 would then get two Zodiac releases for the “Year of the Snake” and the “Year of the Horse” in 2013 and 2014, respectively, as the yearly theme took hold.
The Kobe 8 Protro is one of the most popular sneakers in the NBA along with several other Nike Kobe Protro models. Upgraded for modern performance, the Kobe 8 Protro’s primary difference from the original is a switch from Lunarlon to React cushioning.
The Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Year of the Horse” will release in spring 2026. Pricing has not yet been confirmed, but recent releases for the model have been set at $180.
