Nike drops 'Girl Dad' sneakers inspired by the late Kobe Bryant. See what they look like
Nike went all out for girl dads, dropping a new sneaker inspired by basketball legend and proud girl dad Kobe Bryant one week before Father's Day and just over four years since the NBA star's tragic death.
A courtside moment between Bryant and 13-year-old Gianna Bryant inspired the design of the Kobe 4 Protro, which came out on Friday.
The father-daughter duo’s last public appearance was at an NBA game, where both sat courtside to watch the Los Angeles Lakers play against the Dallas Mavericks on Dec. 29, 2019, according to reporting by a FOX affiliate. They were both killed − along with seven others − in a foggy helicopter crash just outside Los Angeles about a month later.
Nike's new shoe is supposed to serve as a “meaningful rendition” of the tight-knight relationship Bryant shared with his daughter, showcasing colors and a message that invites the wearer to “celebrate the power of Girl Dads everywhere,” according to Nike.
Here’s what we know.
Nike's ‘Girl Dad’ shoes sold out everywhere
It didn’t take long for sneakerheads and Lakers fans to get their hands on the limited-edition shoe, which sold out the day of their debut.
Kobe 4 Protros retailed for $190 and were available on the Nike SNKRS website and app, as well as select retailers, according to reporting by Sports Illustrated.
Nike has been launching sneakers inspired by the late NBA star’s basketball career since August 2023.
The Kobe 4 Protros have Kobe all over them, with a “Girl Dad” printed on the inner tongue. They have an orange insole to represent his support of women’s basketball and the WNBA hoodie, and are bicoastal green like the color of the beanie he was last seen wearing, according to Nike.
“The Kobe 4 Protro has been retooled for a more responsive sensation underfoot, while the springy foam midsole houses Zoom Air in the heel for added bounce to give you an extra step for an epic dad vs. daughter showdown,” Nike’s product description reads.
Sneakerheads in love with Nike's 'Girl Dad' shoes
The lucky few who were able to snag a pair of the Kobe 4 Protro were in love, gushing about the shoe and showing it off on social media. Others were upset they couldn't snag a pair for themselves.