Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Orange White” HM6469-801

At this point it’s safe to say that the Protro program that brought Kobe shoes back to shelves has been a massive success. Revitalizing the Mamba’s most famous silhouettes has been met with arguably more demand than in their original release years, no doubt correlating directly to renewed supply out of Oregon. The latest to assist in that initiative is the Nike Kobe 8 “Orange/White,” shaping up for release later this year.

We’ve said it before, we’ll surely say it again- many of the Kobe 8 colorways that have emerged recently showcase simplified treatments for the model. It’s again the case with this combo of orange and white, the entirely profile sticking to those two shades. This edition and its predecessors speak to a stark divergence from the eccentric, graphic colorways that marked the original 2012-13 run.

That’s not to say Beaverton creatives aren’t willing to bring that energy into new formulations; the “Mambacita” or “Radiant Emerald” are proof enough to the contrary. However, the growing number of these looks seems to be setting up a proverbial “line in the sand” between the two categories. As that pattern continues on, the return of the Kobe 8 as a mainline basketball offering becomes likelier and likelier, something fans new and old would no doubt celebrate.

The Nike Kobe 8 “Orange/White” is currently rumored to be releasing this Fall. A retail price of $190 is probable considering past drops, but isn’t confirmed at this moment. Keep a close eye on this article and our Sneaker Release Dates hub- both will be updated with current info as it comes about.

Staying with basketball shoes, the Tatum 2 headlines the upcoming Jordan Dongdan pack alongside the Spizike Low and Stadium 90.