Side Kicks Streetwear • Global Release Guide
Updated: 12 January 2026
Nike Kobe 1 Protro “81 Points” Release Date, Price & Where to Buy
About the release
Few sneakers carry as much weight as the Nike Kobe line, and even fewer moments in basketball history match what happened on January 22, 2006. To mark the 20th anniversary of Kobe Bryant’s legendary 81-point game against the Toronto Raptors, Nike is bringing back one of the most important performance retros ever made.
The Nike Kobe 1 Protro “81 Points” returns in the colours Kobe wore that night, a white leather base with black and Court Purple accents inspired by the Lakers uniform. Originally a player exclusive in 2007 and last seen in limited numbers in 2019, this release lands as both a tribute and a functional modern basketball shoe.
This is not just another retro. It is a reminder of one of the greatest individual performances the NBA has ever seen, rebuilt for today’s game.
TL;DR – Nike Kobe 1 Protro “81 Points”
- Release date: 22 January 2026
- Time: 8:00 AM (UK)
- Model: Nike Kobe 1 Protro
- Colourway: White / Black / Court Purple
- Style code: IM0542-100
- Retail price: £184.99
- Where to buy: Nike • resale at Side Kicks
Design and performance details
Visually, the Kobe 1 Protro “81 Points” stays close to the original mid-2000s design language. A premium white leather upper forms the base, while black panelling and purple accents highlight the quarter, heel and outsole. The bulky silhouette is deliberate, reflecting an era where lockdown and protection mattered as much as speed.
Under the hood is where the Protro updates come in. The shoe features a full-length Zoom Air unit for consistent responsiveness, paired with a reworked carbon fibre shank that is smaller and lighter than the original. The result is smoother transitions and better court feel without losing the stability that defined the Kobe 1.
This balance between old-school structure and modern cushioning is exactly what Kobe pushed for when he introduced the Protro concept. Performance retros that respect the past, but still belong on today’s court.
Official images
Credit: Nike official images
Why the “81 Points” Kobe 1 still matters
Kobe’s 81-point performance sits second only to Wilt Chamberlain’s 100, but for many fans, it feels even more unreal. It happened in the modern era, against a full NBA defence, with Kobe carrying the Lakers almost single-handedly to a comeback win.
That game turned the Kobe 1 into more than just a signature shoe. It became a symbol of relentless scoring, mental toughness, and a player operating at the peak of his powers. Bringing it back 20 years later feels less like a retro and more like preserving a piece of basketball history.
Where to buy
The Nike Kobe 1 Protro “81 Points” releases on 22 January 2026 via Nike. Demand is expected to be high due to the anniversary significance and limited supply. If you miss out at retail, resale pairs will be available through Side Kicks once pairs start circulating.
FAQ
When does the Nike Kobe 1 Protro “81 Points” release?
The pair releases on 22 January 2026 at 8:00 AM.
How much will the Kobe 1 “81 Points” cost in the UK?
The UK retail price is £184.99.
Is this a Protro version?
Yes. The shoe features Protro updates including full-length Zoom Air and a lighter carbon fibre shank.
Where can I buy the Kobe 1 “81 Points”?
Pairs will be available via Nike, with resale available at Side Kicks.
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