The Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro “Philippines” is returning during the Holiday 2026 season, bringing back one of the most culturally significant and beloved Kobe 9 colorways from the brand’s archives. Inspired by the Filipino culture, including its basketball courts and banig graphics. The retail price is $190.
Quick Facts
Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro “Philippines”
Color: Laser Crimson/Silver-Obsidian
Release Date: Holiday 2026
Style Code: IO6262-600
Price: $190
Where to Buy: Nike, Foot Locker, DSG, Hibbett, Shiekh
More Info: Nike Release Dates
What makes the “Philippines” edition special isn’t just the silhouette, it’s the story behind it. Originally released in 2014, this Kobe 9 EM Low colorway paid tribute to the Philippines’ deep love for basketball, tying design cues and cultural elements from the archipelago into a silhouette already beloved by hoopers. It first dropped exclusively overseas, then landed in the United States. The shoes will return to retailers during the Holiday 2026 season.
The “Philippines” Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro colorway originally drew inspiration from local materials and storytelling. Its woven‑style upper echoed traditional Filipino craft and community basketball courts, while reflective hits and translucent outsole details reportedly nodded to everyday life. Even paying homage to the simple sandals (“tsinelas”) seen on courts across the islands.
For its 2026 return, Nike is expected to stay true to the original concept while applying the updated Protro upgrades. This means you get the classic low‑cut engineered-mesh build, a lightweight feel, and modern cushioning. Expect the signature engineered mesh upper, low‑to‑the‑ground feel, enhanced React cushioning, and improved traction pattern that have become part of the Kobe 9 Protro formula.
More Nike Kobe 9 Releases
Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro Philippines 2026 Release Date
The Nike Kobe 9 EM Low Protro “Philippines” will be released during the Holiday 2026 season at select Nike Basketball retailers, including Nike.com, Foot Locker, DSG, Hibbett, and Shiekh. The retail price is $190. Once we have more details, we will update you. For now, scroll below for more photos of the 2014 pair for a detailed look.
Bottom Line
What makes the Kobe 9 “Philippines” stand out is how genuine the inspiration feels. It connects with people, is rooted in real courts, and reflects the everyday way basketball is played across the Philippines. That connection is what gave the original release its meaning, and it’s why the colorway still resonates years later.
The information is exclusive to us, in collaboration with zsneakerheadz.
Frequently Asked Questions
While inspired by the Philippines, the 2026 Protro release is expected to be global, not an Asia-exclusive like some earlier Kobe releases.
No. While the overall look and inspiration are expected to remain intact, the Protro version will feature updated cushioning and tooling compared to the original.