Behind The Design: Nike Kobe 5 Protro 'X-Ray'
A new Kobe 5 Protro is here.ByAaron ShamimOct 16, 2024
Nike is set to release a new colorway of the Kobe 5 Protro, paying tribute to Kobe Bryant's resilience and determination. Dubbed the 'X-Ray,' this shoe draws inspiration from an iconic t-shirt design that Kobe wore in 2010 to celebrate his fifth NBA championship, which coincided with his "Broken Not Beaten" campaign. This article delves into the design, significance, and appeal of the new Nike Kobe 5 Protro 'X-Ray' release.
History of the Kobe 5 & X-Ray
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro is an updated version of Kobe's fifth signature shoe, first released in 2009. Since its reintroduction in 2019, Nike has released numerous colorways of the Protro, each blending nostalgia with modern technology. The brand new 'X-Ray' colorway joins the line and aims to keep Kobe's legacy and journey alive. Key upgrades to the original design include improved cushioning and traction, with Cushlon replacing the Phylon and Zoom Turbo units replacing Zoom Air.
Behind the Design: Nike Kobe 5 Protro 'X-Ray'
The 'X-Ray' colorway takes its cue from the iconic "Broken Not Beaten" campaign t-shirt Kobe wore in 2010, featuring an X-ray image of his hand with his five championship rings. The t-shirt displayed all of Kobe's injuries to his hand in addition to him wearing his five rings, representing the sacrifices that have to be made to achieve greatness. This shoe translates that design onto the upper, using a combination of deep royal blue, baltic blue, and glacier blue to recreate the X-ray effect. The shoe's upper features a skeleton-like overlay, but this time, it is Kobe's foot, paying homage to the original t-shirt. Additional details include white-outlined baltic blue Swoosh logos and a glow-in-the-dark translucent rubber outsole that adds an eerie glow to the overall design.
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro 'X-Ray' represents more than just a shoe release—it's a celebration of Kobe Bryant's perseverance and legacy. By combining innovative design with an iconic campaign, Nike continues to keep Kobe's memory alive through his signature line. With its unique design and tribute to Kobe's "Broken Not Beaten" mentality, the Kobe 5 'X-Ray' promises to be another sought-after release from Kobe's signature line and a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of Kobe Bryant on basketball and footwear.