Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Year of the Horse” returns in 2026

Nike Basketball is re-releasing the iconic Nike Kobe 8 Protro "Year of the Horse" during Spring 2026, originally launched in 2014.

Although it is too early to discuss an official release date, we already have information about a new Nike Kobe release from 2026. According to Sneaker Files and zSneakerHeadz, the famous Kobe 8 "Year of the Horse" is releasing during Spring 2026. The product code was published exclusively on Sneaker Market.

The model comes with product codes IM0594-600 (Men's SKU), IM6639-600 (Grade School SKU), IM6640-600 (Pre-School SKU) and the "Light Crimson/Bright Crimson/Vivid Blue" color scheme. The colorway matches perfectly with the one used on the 2014 model. We expect the pair to be identical to the release from 12 years ago. For now, Nike has not yet confirmed the release rumors. So far, Vanessa Bryant has been the first person to announce new Nike Kobe releases. As a result, we expect the release to be confirmed by Vanessa Bryant soon.

When is Nike Kobe 8 Protro “Year of the Horse” releasing?

The Nike Kobe 8 Protro "Year of the Horse" is releasing during Spring 2026 on Nike.com and at select Nike Basketball partner retailers. The brand has not yet announced the exact release date. However, we already know that the model is part of the Nike Spring 2026 seasonal catalog, so we expect it to release sometime between January and March. Check out images of the original 2014 version below while we wait for more release details.

On another note, the Nike Kobe 6 Protro "3D All-Star Hollywood" is set to release again soon.