The Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro "Moonwalker" honors two legends—Kobe Bryant's creative basketball vision and Michael Jackson's iconic moonwalk—through a purple Flyknit masterpiece featuring lunar surface graphics that transcend time and culture.

Design & Inspiration

First released in 2014, the "Moonwalker" returns in 2025 as part of Nike's most prolific Kobe Protro era, celebrating the Mamba's legacy with Vanessa Bryant's blessing. The nickname stems from the shoe's translucent outsole, which features clear tread with a grey moonrock-inspired print underneath that pays homage to Michael Jackson's signature moonwalk dance move. The storytelling celebrates music's ability to transcend decades, honoring artists, songs, and dance moves that stand the test of time. The Cave Purple Flyknit upper creates the shoe's unmistakable look, nodding to Jackson's stage presence while maintaining Kobe's signature performance aesthetic. A metallic silver Swoosh adds shine without overwhelming the design, while black laces and padded liner create visual and functional balance. The colorway combines Hyper Grape, White, and Cave Purple in a composition that captures both pop culture royalty and basketball excellence. Caitlin Clark teased the return in Nike's marketing campaign, confirming the Swoosh's commitment to staying true to the original purple and black palette. This release joins the Kobe 9's 2025 comeback alongside colorways like "Halo," "Christmas," and the "Team Bank" series, with the "Moonwalker" representing one of the model's most high-profile bring-backs from its original 2014 run.

Design & Inspiration

The Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro maintains the breathable Flyknit upper focused on lightweight performance. Nike's Protro upgrade delivers modern improvements with a drop-in React foam midsole offering responsive cushioning that keeps players connected to the court. A carbon fiber plate in the midsole provides strong yet lightweight lateral stability—critical for elite-level cuts and movements. Multi-directional tread and upgraded traction blades on the inner side deliver the grip demanded by today's game.

Release Information & Pricing

The Nike Kobe 9 Elite Low Protro "Moonwalker" releases October 30, 2025, with a retail price of $220 USD/€210/£190. Available through Nike Store and select Nike retailers. This marks the first Protro return of the "Moonwalker" since 2014, bringing an iconic colorway back to honor both Kobe Bryant's creative drive and Michael Jackson's cultural impact nearly eleven years after its debut.