Class Act: The Nike Kobe 5 Protro ‘Lower Merion Aces’ Is Back in Session
Nike keeps proving that Kobe Bryant's signature line is fit to stand the test of time. Official images of the Nike Kobe 5 Protro 'Lower Merion Aces' reveal that this alma mater tribute is still at the top of its class. This retro looks to stay pretty true to the 2010 original, minus swapping out the black ace emblems on the heels, for a stitched red ace emblem and Bryant's high school jersey number #33 on the left and right shoes respectively.
Peruse the additional images below, and keep your calendars marked for a March 23 release via Nike's website and the SNKRS app for a retail price of $200.
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro 'Lower Merion Aces' has been loaded to launch through select stockists on March 23. Keep it locked to find out where you can scoop your size.
Nike are set to revisit a legendary high school tribute with the Kobe 5 Protro ‘Lower Merion Aces (Away),’ expected to release next year. Originally arriving in 2010, the palette stays true to Kobe’s Philadelphia alma mater, featuring a dominant metallic silver body, ‘Team Red’ accents, and crisp white midsole – a reversal of the ‘Home’ version’s colour placement. The lateral Swoosh appears in bold maroon, echoing the Lower Merion High School Aces’ team colours. Adding to the high‑school homage is the iconic card‑style ‘Aces’ logo embroidered on the heel tab, paying tribute to the school’s mascot and Kobe’s early rise to stardom.
Originally designed by Eric Avar, the Kobe 5’s upper combines lightweight synthetic materials with heat‑bonded overlays and signature Flywire cables for locked-in support. A sculpted heel counter enhances stability, while the outsole showcases a ‘heartbeat’ traction pattern – a nod to Kobe’s unyielding pulse on the court.
Technically, the Protro version upgrades the cushioning to modern standards (Zoom Air forefoot and heel), also retains the glass/carbon-fibre shank plate for midfoot rigidity, and features subtle updates to the outsole for improved traction suited to today’s faster-paced play.
This year has been a big one for Mamba-heads. Things kicked off with the ‘Year of the Mamba’ colourways, celebrating the Lunar New Year. Since then, we’ve had plenty more heat surface, including the recent Kobe 6 ‘Dodgers’ colourway slated to hit the mound later this month.
The Nike Kobe 5 Protro ‘Lower Merion Aces’ is expected to arrive in 2026 at Nike and select retailers.
For more on Kobe’s sneakers, make sure to check out this grail Knicks hero Jalen Brunson wore during the NBA playoffs – among a mountain of other high-heat Kobe PEs!
