The sneaker-heads and fans of Kobe Bryant are in for a treat. Vanessa Bryant and her daughters already displayed two exclusive Nike Air Force 1 Low colorways at the Mamba League Invitational on August 24. A day celebrated as Kobe Day by fans and loved ones who gather to celebrate the legacy of the NBA legend. And Nike, along with Vanessa Bryant, has played a crucial role in furthering this legacy. The first look of yet another variant of the Nike Air Force 1 Low is a testament to it.

What’s special about this upcoming pair? Unlike the elaborate Queen Mamba edition seen at the Invitational, this design has kept things simple yet meaningful. Primarily made out of white leather, the sneakers feature the iconic colors of the LA Lakers.

This includes dominating gold accents and a hint of purple that outlines the Swoosh and tongue branding. Look closely, and you’ll also be able to spot the Black Mamba’s autograph in metallic gold on the woven tongue label. Meanwhile, the heel of the shoes is graced by the 5x NBA champ’s signature sheath logo—a tribute element that covered the sneakers worn by his daughters, Bianka and Capri.

However, some fans may find a hint of similarity between the latest edition of the sneakers and Kobe Bryant X Air Force 1 Mid. Yet somehow, the Nike Air Force 1 Low stands out. As for the release date, no official information has been given out yet, but the expected date is around the upcoming holidays. And the price? Expect to grab these iconic sneakers for $145.

How have the Kobe Bryant sneakers kept his legacy alive in the new generation of fans?

It’s been over four years since we lost the Black Mamba, but his spirit has stayed stronger than ever. This spirit was further fueled after Nike agreed on a new long-term deal with the Kobe Bryant Estate. Under this, the brand would continue to produce both footwear as well as apparel from Bryant’s Zoom Kobe series. Over the past year, not only did the brand team up with Vanessa to relaunch the Kobe Brand but also established Mamba Programs at the NCAA level and kick-started the That’s Mamba campaign.

“We’re excited to announce our partnership with Nike is going to continue… I am so proud that my husband’s shoes are still the most worn by players on NBA courts and that the demand for his shoes remain so desired by his fans around the world,” Vanessa wrote in an IG post. Following this, Nike laid special emphasis on sneaker-heads and fans alike.

The sports brand released four of the Black Mamba’s signature sneakers in 2023, with at least ten more releases planned for 2024, as per an article by Sports Illustrated. The positive outcome so far has been that the 5x NBA champ’s performance shoes have continued to impress even around a decade after their debut. Maximum credit for this goes to the Protro series that breathed new life into Bryant’s classic sneakers. Blending the old-school charm with minor tweaks for today’s game.

However, this revival wasn’t just about shoes, but about storytelling as well. The motive seems to be fulfilled so far, as through every sneaker drop and campaign, a new generation gets to learn about Kobe Bryant’s incredible performances. And more importantly, the Mamba Mentality that drove him. Don’t trust us? Look for yourself at young athletes like Caitlin Clark during her Hawkeyes days, who fully embraced these iconic shoes.

There is just one challenge that needs to be overcome. Nothing to do with any of the sneakers’ lack of popularity but rather the lack of supply due to high demand. Vanessa Bryant has herself acknowledged this issue multiple times but has now promised improvements. It’s to be seen if the Kobe Bryant X Nike Air Force 1 Low can be the first step in this direction.

Stay tuned for more such updates. And join us for the exciting second episode of the “Dual Threat Show” as our host BG12 sits down with Georgia Bulldogs star and Mountain West All-Freshman Team Selection, Asia Avinger.