The Kobe 6 was released in 2010 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon both on and off the court. Its popularity stems from several key factors:
Design Innovation:
The most distinctive feature was the “snake skin” inspired upper, featuring scaled texture that aligned perfectly with Kobe’s “Black Mamba” persona. This wasn’t just aesthetic – the polyurethane scales actually enhanced durability and provided unique containment during lateral movements.
Performance Features:
– A lower profile than the Kobe 5, sitting just 3.2mm off the ground
– Dual-density Phylon midsole with Zoom Air units in heel and forefoot
– The outsole pattern was modified to provide exceptional court grip
– A unique heel counter design that locked players in during quick cuts
Why we Hoopers Love It:
Basketball players particularly appreciate the Kobe 6 for its court feel and responsiveness. The low-top design was revolutionary at the time, changing how players thought about ankle support. The shoe proved you could have both mobility and stability in a low-top silhouette. The cushioning setup strikes an excellent balance between impact protection and court feel, making it versatile for both guards and forwards.
Most Popular Colorways:
1. “Grinch” – The bright green Christmas Day colorway is considered the holy grail of Kobe 6s
2. “Proto” – The 2021 retro version with slightly updated technology
3. “POP” – The white/del sol-neutral grey version worn during the 2011 playoffs
4. “All-Star” – The 2011 All-Star game
Changes in the Protro Version:
When Nike rereleased the Kobe 6 as the “Protro” (Performance Retro) in 2021, they made several key updates:
– Full-length Zoom Air replaced the original dual-zoom setup
– Updated traction pattern for modern courts
– More durable scaled upper material
– Slightly modified heel counter for improved stability
The shoe’s enduring popularity also stems from Kobe wearing them during significant moments, including multiple 40+ point games during the 2010-11 season. The versatile performance aspects combined with the unique aesthetic have made the Kobe 6 one of the most sought-after basketball shoes for both players and collectors.
Players from DeMar DeRozan to Devin Booker continue to wear the Kobe 6 in games today, testament to its timeless design and performance capabilities. The “Grinch” colorway, in particular, has become so iconic that it regularly resells for thousands of dollars.
