Nike Kobe 3 Protro Performance Review

The Nike Kobe 3 Protro started out really rough for me, which is a prime example of why you can’t do a performance review after just one wear.

The Nike Kobe 3 Protro is a shoe that gets better with every wear, to the point where I’m not going to say I love them, but I’m close. I was super excited to play in these because I’d never tried them before, and they’re the one Kobe model I’ve been wanting to play in for years.

On my first defensive play, I almost broke my ankle. It was so awkward that I immediately took them off and threw them back in my gym bag. Luckily, I kept giving them chances, and they improved with every wear. It’s a shoe you just have to get used to because they don’t really make shoes with this kind of tooling (midsole/outsole setup) anymore.

Traction

I’ve heard mixed reviews about the traction on the original Kobe 3, but for the Nike Kobe 3 Protro, all I can say is that the traction is fantastic, especially in the forefoot. I would feel confident wearing these both indoors and outdoors, though not the same pair for both.

The outsole is a rubber cupsole, similar to a Nike Dunk or Air Jordan 1. It felt a bit clunky at first, and the roundedness of the outsole is what caused my initial slip. My footwork was sloppy, and I got caught on my heel, which rolled over. Since then, it hasn’t happened again, but it was a scary moment. I can say that the traction itself is not the problem; it’s a solid performer.

Cushion

The cushioning is another aspect that has been updated from the original. The original was Phylon with heel and forefoot Zoom Air. The Nike Kobe 3 Protro uses Cushlon 3.0 foam with a full-length Zoom Strobel unit.

At first, it felt a bit stiff and elevated, especially in the heel. I wish they’d lowered the ride to get you a bit closer to the ground. However, the more I wore them, the bouncier and more responsive they became.

The ride is on the firmer side, but it still has that classic Zoom Air bounce, similar to an Air Jordan 12. If you love the Jordan 12s after they’re broken in, you’ll probably love these. If you hate the 12s, you might not like the feel of these, either. The traction and cushioning are highlights, but they both require a break-in period before they truly shine.

Upper

The upper is a love-it-or-hate-it feature. The toe cap is a durable synthetic leather that flexes and breaks in well. The rest of the upper is a rubberized, waffle-like material that is incredibly strong and durable, taking very little damage. It’s also very breathable due to its webbed design backed with a mesh liner.

My main critique is that they are high-tops. I’m not used to playing in high-tops anymore, so they feel like a boot, and my ankles feel restricted. I’m excited for the low-top version, which I believe is being held back until next year to prevent the high-tops from going unsold.

Support

The support is solid. The forefoot has a wide platform, although the heel is a bit rounded, which could be an issue for some. A small outrigger would have helped but would have compromised the original look. There is a carbon fiber midfoot plate, but it’s not as rigid as the one in the original. I believe the Nike Kobe 3 Protro’s carbon fiber plate doesn’t extend to the forefoot like it did in the original, which allows for more flexibility.

Fit

Now, in terms of sizing, I went true to size. That’s what works best for me. So, that’s what I would recommend.

Wide-footers, you may want to try these on if possible, just because of the cupsole aspect. If you have any width spillage [Editor’s Note: that’s a new one] you might feel the rubber pushing up underneath your foot and it might be uncomfortable. I would try them on if possible. If not, go true to size and hope for the best. But everybody else, go true to size and you should be good.

Nike Kobe 3 Protro Summary

The Nike Kobe 3 Protro is a solid performer but requires a significant break-in period. Its standout features are the reliable traction and the responsive, albeit firm, cushioning. However, the high-top upper and slightly rounded heel can be restrictive and awkward for some players, especially those used to modern low-tops.

The Nike Kobe 3 Protro’s overall feel and performance improve dramatically the more you wear them. While the Protro may not be for everyone, particularly those who prefer a flexible, low-profile ride, it’s a great option for players who are willing to put in the time to break them in.

Disclosure

We purchased the Nike Kobe 3 Protro and the company had no involvement in this review, didn’t receive an advance look at it, and has not attempted to influence it.