The Nike Air Force 1 Low Protro Lenticular brings the Kobe tribute series into louder territory, combining upgraded Protro cushioning with an eye-catching lenticular upper that shifts between purple, gold, and black depending on lighting. As part of the ongoing Kobe Air Force 1 lineup from Nike, this version focuses on visual impact while still honoring performance-minded updates tied to the Protro concept.
Designed by Bruce Kilgore and originally released in 1982 as the first basketball shoe to feature Nike Air technology, the Air Force 1 has evolved from a court essential into one of the most enduring lifestyle sneakers ever produced. This Kobe-themed Protro edition elevates the classic with a color-shifting lenticular upper, reflective rainbow Swoosh piping, shield-logo outsole stars, Kobe signature placement on the midsole replacing the traditional “AIR” text, stitched shield logos on the backtabs, and tribute details such as “8 Forever” and “24 Forever” innter tongue tag markings, dubraes reading “Mamba” and “Mentality,” and snake-print insole graphics with the shield logo.
I finally picked these up after a SNKRS restock and paid full retail, but the visual impact alone made them worth it to me. If the Cool Grey Kobe AF1s are the subtle tribute pair, this is definitely the louder counterpart. The shifting lenticular effect gives the sneaker a constantly changing look that really stands out on foot and makes it one of the more unique Kobe Air Force 1 releases so far. It reminds me of the Nike SB Dunk Low x Concepts “Holy Grail” a bit actually!
Packaging reflects the premium theme. The shoes arrive in a special white box with gold detailing, including shield logos and Kobe signatures, along with three sets of flat laces (grey, black and white) featuring plastic tipped aglets, plus an informational card highlighting the Protro technology and design details.
Materials
Material-wise, the upper appears to use a coated leather base layered with the lenticular finish, meaning the appeal here is more about the striking visual treatment than ultra-soft leather textures. In fact, we get a textured upper to match the mamba skin pattern. At the end of the day, the sneaker feels well built and solid in hand, delivering the type of construction quality expected from a premium-themed release.
Fit & Comfort
Fit is consistent with the classic Air Force 1 shape, running roomy at true to size, though some may still prefer going a half size down depending on preference. Underfoot is where the biggest upgrade appears, as the Protro setup incorporates ReactX foam paired with Nike Air cushioning, providing noticeably softer and more modern comfort than traditional AF1 tooling. The result is a very comfortable ride for everyday casual wear.
If these are sold out at different stores online, you can try looking for them on eBay.
Colorway: Light Armory Blue / Light Armory Blue
Style Code: II3925-400
Retail Price: $150
Year of Release: 2025