Nike Kobe 3 Protro 'Orca' Brings Back the Original High-Top

After spending much of 2026 reinventing the Kobe 3 as a low-top, Nike is returning to the silhouette that started it all. The Nike Kobe 3 Protro 'Orca' brings back the familiar high-cut construction of Kobe Bryant’s 2007 signature shoe while retaining the performance-focused approach of the modern Protro line.

The return creates a clear contrast with the Kobe 3 Low Protro, which has dominated the model’s recent revival through colorways like 'Atomic Pink,' 'Pure Platinum,' and 'Electric Green.' 'Orca' instead looks back to the original proportions that defined the third chapter of Kobe’s Nike signature series.

Its design remains one of the more distinctive from Kobe’s early footwear years. Black covers most of the sneaker, with leather surrounding the toe while mesh and TPU create the recognizable web-like structure stretching across the sides and ankle.

White enters around the heel to break up the dark foundation, creating the high-contrast appearance behind the 'Orca' nickname. Varsity Maize adds a final touch of color through Kobe’s Sheath logos on the tongue and heel.

Rather than dramatically changing the original aesthetic, Nike keeps this edition closely connected to the pair fans remember. The black-and-white blocking remains the focal point, while the return of the high-top construction gives the Kobe 3 lineup a more direct connection to its 2007 roots. At the same time, this is still a Protro rather than a conventional retro, meaning the familiar exterior is paired with the performance updates Nike has introduced for the modern Kobe line.

With both high- and low-top versions now part of the Kobe 3 revival, Nike is approaching the model from two directions: reimagining Kobe’s third signature for a new generation while continuing to bring back the design that originally defined it. The Nike Kobe 3 Protro 'Orca' releases September 26, 2026, and retail for $210 USD.