Basketball culture has always found its own way to shine, especially in places where the game lives beyond the gym. That spirit comes back into focus as one of the Kobe line’s most meaningful releases prepares for a long-awaited return later this year.
A colorway first introduced in 2014 through a limited Twitter-exclusive release, the Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro “Philippines” is officially set to return during Holiday 2026.
Designed with artwork by half-Filipino designer Erick Goto, the original pair paid tribute to Southeast Asia’s deep-rooted love for basketball. Its woven graphic upper and subtle storytelling details quickly separated it from standard performance drops, giving the silhouette cultural weight that still resonates today.
Visually, this release stands out through layered textures and everyday references. The engineered mesh upper features a woven-style print inspired by traditional materials found across the islands. Underfoot, flip-flop detailing molded into the icy translucent outsole nods to outdoor hoops culture, where players often make do with whatever they have. Dressed in Laser Crimson, Silver, and Obsidian, the color palette balances energy with purpose rather than flash.
From a construction standpoint, the Protro update is expected to keep the original feel intact while refining performance. The lightweight, breathable EM build should return alongside modern React cushioning for improved responsiveness. Updated traction and a low-to-the-ground setup align the model with current Kobe Protro standards, blending heritage with on-court relevance.
Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro Philippines 2026 Release Date
The Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro “Philippines” is scheduled to release during Holiday 2026 at select Nike Basketball retailers and Nike.com for $190 USD.
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Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro “Philippines”
Color: Laser Crimson/Silver-Obsidian
Style Code: IO6262-600
Release Date: Holiday 2026
Price: $190
Source: Sneaker Files / zsneakerheadz
