Verdict from 7.5 hours of research from the internet
7 reasons to buy
- According to most testers, the Nike Zoom Kobe 4 Protro has an aggressive traction pattern that grips the floor well.
- A good number of reviewers note that the Protro’s midsole is softer than the OG’s. They claim that the cushioning feels really comfortable.
- Despite the lack of full-length Zoom, nearly all testers are satisfied with the Kobe 4 Protro’s cushioning setup. They claim that the heel area offers a lot of impact protection while the forefoot feels very stable and responsive.
- Although not premium, a few players comment that the materials work and are quite durable.
- Nearly all wearers love how the Zoom Kobe 4 Protro fits. They suggest going with your actual size when getting these signature Kobe Bryant basketball shoes.
- According to almost all testers, the Kobe 4 Protro is very supportive for a low-top. They are saying that all the support features (outrigger, midfoot shank, and heel counter) work very well.
- The Kobe 4 Protro feels super light on feet, several reviewers comment.
3 reasons not to buy
- Almost all commenters are angry at the fact that Nike falsely advertised the Zoom Kobe 4 Protro. The Swoosh said that the Kobe 4 Protro is equipped with full-length Zoom; however, they discovered these low-top basketball shoes only feature a heel Zoom Air unit.
- Several testers observe that the synthetic materials start stiff and require a few runs to break in thoroughly.
- Many are quick to comment that these Nike basketball shoes are quite expensive.
Bottom line
The Nike Kobe 4 Protro stays true to the original. Everything works as expected unless of course, you were expecting more.
The main issue with this Protro model is the cushioning. Before its release, Nike advertised that the Kobe 4 Protro comes with full-length Zoom Air. However, it was discovered that only a heel Zoom Air unit is present.
Overall, the Kobe 4 Protro plays as well as the original. The absence of performance updates make this more of a retro rather than a protro.
Tip: see the best basketball shoes.
Expert reviews:
- 94/100 by Schwollo
- 88/100 by WearTesters
- 88/100 by Head Jordan
- 84/100 by SneakerDebut
In 2009, Nike launched the Kobe 4 that kicked-off the low-top movement in basketball. Ten years later, these well-loved Kobe basketball shoes return with updated performance features to meet the game’s changing demands.
The Nike Zoom Kobe 4 Protro features the original Flywire construction and heel Zoom Air unit for maximum support and comfort. Performance updates include a wider outsole traction, a sleeker heel, and an adjusted vamp shape.
Cushion. In a statement, Nike confirmed that the Kobe 4 Protro features a full-length Phylon midsole with a Zoom Air unit at the heel.
The Phylon midsole offers a cushioned, comfortable, and flexible ride while the heel Zoom Air bag protects against hard landings.
Traction. The Zoom Kobe 4 Protro is equipped with a solid rubber outsole for increased durability. The outsole features a herringbone pattern for enhanced traction on the court.
Length and Width. According to most wearers, these Kobe Bryant basketball shoes provide an excellent overall fit. They recommend staying true to size when grabbing a pair of these low-top sneakers.
Lockdown. These low-top Nike basketball shoes have a lace up closure for a comfortable fit. The shoe’s upper also boasts a Flywire construction that keeps the foot locked-in and contained.
These performance retros feature a leather upper for increased support and long-lasting durability. A padded ankle collar offers added comfort.
According to Nike.com, “When Kobe Bryant thought about the design of his fourth Nike signature shoe, he raised an important question: Why did the world’s top soccer strikers wear low-cut shoes while basketball players—participating in an equally dynamic sport—still believed that high-tops were best?”
The Nike Kobe 4 features a light, low-top profile that manages to provide maximum support to shifty guards, rangy forwards, and powerful bigs.
Dubbed “Draft Day,” the Zoom Kobe 4 Protro arrives in White/Varsity Purple/Orion Blue. This colorway pays homage to the Charlotte Hornets—the original team that drafted Kobe Bryant in 1996.
Size and fit
How Zoom Kobe 4 Protro compares
