Nike continues its Lunar New Year storytelling with the Kobe 8 Protro EXT “Year of the Horse”, but the 2026 release marks a notable shift in direction. Instead of anchoring the design in on-court performance, this edition reframes the Kobe 8 as a lifestyle silhouette, using materials and texture to communicate theme rather than speed or responsiveness.
The upper sets the tone immediately. A Light Orewood Brown suede base replaces traditional engineered mesh, establishing a softer, more tactile foundation. Molded overlays reinforce the toe and eyelets, adding structure without overpowering the material story. Baroque Brown pony hair appears on the Swoosh and inner lining, introducing a premium, almost heritage-driven texture.
Heel construction further differentiates the EXT from standard Protros. Ocean Cube suede replaces a traditional heel counter, stitched in white for clarity and visual separation. Underfoot, a subtle gradient outsole transitions from Ocean Cube to Red Stardust, adding colour movement. Horseshoe-shaped metal lace dubraes quietly reference the Lunar New Year theme, avoiding overt symbolism while reinforcing the narrative.
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