The Mamba's legacy keeps running in 2026, and the Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro "Steam" is one of the cleanest drops of the year. No noise, no distractions — just elite basketball performance wrapped in a refined, understated look.

About the Shoe

Originally released in 2014, the Kobe 9 Low EM was a milestone in basketball footwear — a low-top silhouette that proved lightweight engineered mesh and serious on-court performance could coexist. The Protro update brings that iconic design into 2026 with a modernized midsole and sole system, while staying true to the original's fast, agile character. The "Steam" colorway strips the palette back to its essentials: a Light Silver engineered mesh upper provides breathability and a sleek base, while soft sage green Steam accents emerge on the heel counter, Flywire cables, sockliner, and lace loops — subtle enough to read as silver in certain lighting, bold enough to set this pair apart. A Summit White outsole keeps the bottom clean and light. Under the foot, a drop-in React foam midsole and a carbon fiber plate deliver the responsive, stable ride the Kobe 9 is known for. The multidirectional traction pattern on the outsole rounds out a shoe that works as hard on the court as it looks off it. Signature details — the Kobe sheath tongue logo and the Achilles-stitch heel stitching — ground the pair firmly in Mamba legacy territory.

Quick Info

📅 Release Date   : April 1st, 2026
💰 Retail Price   : € 180 / £ 165 / $190
🎨 Colorway       : Light Silver / Summit White / Steam
📦 Style Code     : IH1401-003
📐 Sizing         : Men's
🌍 Availability   : Nike.com & select retailers worldwide

Where to Buy the Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro "Steam"

The Kobe 9 EM Low Protro "Steam" drops April 13, 2026, via Nike and select authorized basketball retailers. Find your size through the links below — all updated in real time as stock becomes available.