Nike is finally set to release the Nike Kobe 4 Protro as a tribute to the late Los Angeles Lakers legend. As fans might be aware, both Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna Bryant were killed in a tragic helicopter accident more than 3 years ago.
Vanessa Bryant recently entered into an undisclosed contract with Nike to continue the production of a shoe line showing tribute to Giannia called the Nike Kobe 4 Protro “Mambacita.” Let us take a closer look at it and find out the relevant details such as price, release date, and more.
When will the Nike Kobe 4 Protro “Mambacita” be released?
The Nike Kobe 4 Protro “Mambacita” has certainly garnered the attention of fans across the world with its unique coloring and design style. It is predominantly white in color with black on its laces, sole, and Nike Swoosh logo. It is also specially customized to include both her nickname “Gigi” and her jersey number (#2) on the sole and heel.
That’s not all. This particular shoe is expected to come with a special Mambacita sock liner, shoe box, and “Gigi” aglets. To those who do not know, a sock liner is the first layer of foam that the foot rests on when inside the shoe. Additionally, an aglet is the edge of a shoelace and is usually a metal or plastic tube.
Official Images: Nike Kobe 4 Protro “Mambacita” 🐍
Releasing on May 1st, Gigi Bryant’s birthday pic.twitter.com/BP35qeN11U— Sneaker News (@SneakerNews) April 19, 2023
All of these customized features won’t be available for free. In fact, many shoe critics aren’t exactly happy with the pricing scheme for the Kobe 4 Protro “Mambacita.” According to the information we have received so far, they are estimated to cost around $180 USD, making them significantly more expensive than other shoes endorsed by professional NBA athletes.
Most of the signature shoes cost around $90-$110. However, the Gigi-themed shoe seems to cost almost twice as much. Although these shoes might be worth the price, not many fans and young girls will be able to afford them.
Nike is releasing another “Mambacita” themed shoe — this Kobe 4 Protro in Gianna Bryant’s Mamba Ballers team colors will release on what would have been Gigi’s 17th birthday on May 1st: pic.twitter.com/YkfssICZCF
— Nick DePaula (@NickDePaula) April 19, 2023
Moving onto the expected release date, we don’t have a clear-cut picture as to when the Kobe 4 Protro “Mambacita” will be officially released. Some feel that it could be unveiled on May 1st, 2023. This would make sense considering that is also Gianna’s birthday. However, it is yet to be confirmed. In any case, we hope that this signature shoe line does well and is successful.