Nike honors Kobe Bryant with Mamba Mentality Air Force 1 – All about the release

On June 24, 2025, a special tribute to a basketball legend will appear: the Nike Air Force 1 Low Protro "Mamba Mentality". This release combines the iconic Air Force 1 silhouette with Kobe Bryant’s mentality. The result is a striking lifestyle sneaker with deep symbolism, executed in a colorway that directly recalls his legacy with the Lakers.

Table of contents

• What makes this release special?
• Design and details
• Available variant
• Release information
• Why you don't want to miss this release

 

What makes this release special?

The term ‘Mamba Mentality’ has become synonymous with focus, resilience, and endless dedication – exactly what Kobe Bryant stood for. With this Air Force 1 Low, Nike brings that philosophy to the streets, wrapped in one of the most recognizable sneakers ever.

This release falls under the “Protro” label, which stands for “performance retro”: classic models with modern details, intended to continue Kobe’s influence beyond the basketball court. It is a unique appearance within Kobe’s legacy because it is the first Air Force 1 specifically dedicated to him.

 

Design and details

The sneaker is made in a vibrant yellow color that directly refers to the Los Angeles Lakers. The upper is made of high-quality leather with a light texture and contrasting dark purple stitching. Notable are the black and white rope laces, a rugged touch rarely applied to Air Force 1s.

The tongue has a purple label with the iconic Mamba logo, while the heel is finished with an embroidered Kobe signature. On the lateral sidewall of the sole, that signature is subtly displayed again. Unique detail: on the back of the heel is the number 8 – a direct reference to Kobe’s first jersey number with the Lakers. The purple outsole contrasts perfectly with the yellow upper and completes the tribute.

 

Available variant

The Nike Air Force 1 Low Protro "Mamba Mentality" will be released on June 24, 2025, in the following version:

Release information

The release takes place on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, via the Nike SNKRS app, Nike.com, and selected retailers such as END, BSTN, Footdestrict, and SNS. Whether this release will be available in physical stores has not yet been confirmed, but previous Mamba drops sold out online very quickly.

We recommend setting notifications via SNKRS and signing up for raffles as soon as they go live. This is undoubtedly a release where timing is everything.

 

Why you don't want to miss this release

The Nike Air Force 1 Low Protro "Mamba Mentality" is a unique tribute to one of the greatest athletes of all time. The colors, details, and finish speak volumes for fans of Kobe, sneakers, and storytelling. The number 8 on the heel, the snakeskin details, and the references to the Lakers make this a collectible pair with emotional value. A release that is not only stylish – but also meaningful.