The upcoming Lunar New Year-themed Kobe 5 releases are part of a larger Nike collection called “Year of the Mamba,” which will soon be available.
It’s been confirmed that the “Eggplant” Kobe 5 will kick off the drops on Thursday, with the “University Red” colorway launching exclusively in China. The collection also includes a “Year of the Mamba” jacket, T-shirt, crewneck, and fleece pants to complement the sneakers.
The lineup features the re-release of the Kobe 9 Elite High “Masterpiece” in Protro form on February 8. This updated version features a React foam midsole and new interior traction. The collection wraps up with the All-Star-themed “Sail” Kobe 6 Protro, set to drop on February 13. The updated version swaps out the traditional snakeskin for star designs on the upper.
“This collection is an introduction to the Year of the Mamba—and, for our younger athletes, a deeper education on Mamba Mentality and the tenacity Kobe brought to the game,” said product line manager for Kobe footwear Bronson Yim. “With this capsule, we’re not extending athletes a year of good luck. We’re not saying, ‘Have a good year.’ We’re challenging athletes to have a tough year, proving to themselves that they can channel Mamba Mentality to unlock their goals.”
