Nike’s “Year of the Horse” Kobe 8 Releases Spring 2026

Nike is going all out on their 2026 Lunar New Year collection, with over a dozen models across Swoosh & Jordan models so far. Today, we have an official look at the Kobe offering for the project, a “Year of the Horse” Kobe 8 EXT Protro. Nike’s Kobe signature line has a deep connection to […] The post Nike’s “Year of the Horse” Kobe 8 Releases Spring 2026 appeared first on JustFreshKicks.

Nike is going all out on their 2026 Lunar New Year collection, with over a dozen models across Swoosh & Jordan models so far. Today, we have an official look at the Kobe offering for the project, a “Year of the Horse” Kobe 8 EXT Protro.

Nike’s Kobe signature line has a deep connection to Lunar New Year storytelling, reflecting Kobe Bryant’s global influence and appreciation for Asian culture. Beginning in the early 2010s, Nike regularly released Lunar New Year editions of Kobe models like the Kobe 6, 8, and 11, featuring red and gold palettes, zodiac-inspired graphics, and premium materials symbolizing luck and renewal. These releases blended elite performance innovation with cultural celebration, and will continue in 2026 with a fresh take on the Kobe 8 EXT Protro.

This year’s edition of a Kobe sneaker for Lunar New Year feature the eighth model in the Mamba’s signature sneaker line, specifically its EXT Protro format. Celebrating the “Year of the Horse’, the new style covers the classic court sneaker in faux pony hair, dressed in all black. Metallic gold accents are added for the Kobe branding on tongues and heels, Bryant’s signature on the outer heel, and a special horse shoe charm for the laces. The sockliners add a splash of red on the interior with a molded design. Additionally, this pair will come with unique new packaging, with a second “lid” inside that acts as a frame to the sneakers.

NIKE KOBE 8 EXT PROTRO “YEAR OF THE HORSE” RELEASE INFORMATION

Nike’s upcoming special release of the Kobe 8 Protro does not have a set drop date yet, but is likely coming sometime in February 2026 alongside the Lunar New Year series. The shoe’s all-black, faux horse hair construction with gold accents features some unique new special packaging and a healthy does of premium accessories. Pairs will come with a hefty price tag of $290.

Nike Kobe 8 EXT Protro “Year of the Horse”
Color: Black/University Red-Metallic Gold
Style Code: IO8152-001
Release Date: 2026
Price: $290

Check out the official images below, and stay tuned to JustFreshKicks on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more of the latest sneaker news, release dates, and restock alerts.