Our verdict
Bringing back the Nike Kobe 6 as a Protro version results in crazy levels of anticipation and eventual reception! Boy, the shoe surely does not disappoint, especially performance-wise! Its amazing traction is usually the target of endless praise, and so is the well-balanced cushioning system. Kobe fans and many other basketball players are understandably happy to get their hands (and feet) on the Kobe 6 again.
Pros
- Amazing traction
- Bounce and responsiveness
- Noticeable impact protection
- Reliable support and lockdown
- Flexible upper materials
- Comfortable tongue
- True to size
- Stylish
Cons
- Break-in needed
- Dust pickup
- Not for outdoor use
Who should buy the Nike Kobe 6 Protro
This basketball shoe is great for the following types of buyers:
- players who stay mostly indoors
- wearers who look for hoop shoes that double as lifestyle sneakers
- athletes who have a versatile style of play on the court
Who should NOT buy this Nike shoe
Outdoor hoopers and those who don't like wiping the soles regularly are not expected to be so enthusiastic about this sneaker. They are better off with the Nike Kybrid S2 or the Nike Cosmic Unity.
The bite of the Kobe 6 Protro is simply so strong
Basketball athletes notice that the outsole has a strong grip; it's up there with the Kobe 9 and UA Curry 8 when it comes to traction. The outsole material and pattern used on the Protro are almost the same as the original. Hence, it comes as no surprise that the performance is at par with the greatness that was the OG Kobe 6.
Two more things have to be noted here. First, the outsole needs some time to unleash what it's truly capable of. Second, the outsole is so sticky that dust clings to it like glue; there is a need to wipe it when playing on dirty courts.
The cushioning system has every base covered
The cushioning system is the most upgraded part of this Protro; it now features a full-length Cushlon and a Zoom Turbo unit. This upgraded setup delivers a nice blend of responsiveness, court feel, and impact protection.
Even so, it is not recommended to frequently take this shoe outdoors. The conditions there might be too harsh for this shoe.
With the Kobe 6 Protro, the foot is securely mounted on the footbed
The heel counter, outrigger, and scale-like overlays work together to provide a really secure lockdown. You do not wobble or slip when wearing this Kobe shoe.
Comfortable and pliable materials
The upper is made of materials that mold to the shape of the wearer's foot. The Micromesh material with scale-like overlays comfortably hugs the foot, providing enough support for aggressive on-court moves.
Also, the well-padded tongue relieves lace pressure, which in turn allows more effective adjustments.
Play in style with the Kobe 6 Protro
This shoe does not disappoint when it comes to aesthetics. It comes in the "Grinch" colorway, the one Kobe was wearing when he battled against the likes of LeBron James and Dwyane Wade in a Christmas game during the time of the OG Kobe 6. Of course, there are many other colorways to choose from.
