Bite-Back Season: Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro ‘Philippines’ Is Back

The return of the Nike Kobe 9 EM Low ‘Philippines’ in Protro form is one of those nostalgic drops that feels earned. Originally a 2014 regional exclusive and a coveted chase pair for Kobe fans worldwide, the ‘Philippines’ colourway is set to resurface during Holiday 2026 as part of Nike’s ongoing reinvestment in the Kobe Protro platform.

What makes this release stand out is more than just the silhouette. The design’s roots tap into the Philippines’ deep-running love affair with basketball – a culture where neighbourhood courts are gathering places and hoops are woven into everyday life. Early looks suggest the Protro stays faithful to the original’s layered engineered-mesh construction in bold ‘Laser Crimson’, ‘Silver’, and ‘Obsidian’, delivering a look that feels vibrant, expressive, and unmistakably Mamba.

Unlike retro releases that lean purely on nostalgia, the Kobe 9 EM Low Protro arrives with meaningful performance updates. The lightweight EM upper is expected to be paired with modern React cushioning, offering a more responsive ride while preserving the low-to-the-ground court feel that made the Kobe 9 such a favourite among players. Traction and stability are also tipped to receive subtle refinements, keeping the shoe aligned with contemporary on-court expectations.

Expected to retail around $190, the Kobe 9 EM Low Protro ‘Philippines’ is shaping up as another modern Mamba classic – keep your fangs firmly fixed on Sneaker Freaker for updates.

For more on Kobe’s legendary sneaker archive, make sure to check out our complete retrospective.