Kobe Bryant x Nike Air Force 1 “Denim” PE Returns For 20th Anniversary

The rare 2006 pair is back in Protro form.

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Original Story (05/05/26): Nike is getting everyone into the Mamba Mentality with the return of the Kobe Bryant x Nike Air Force 1 “Denim,” a rare PE from 2006 that never released to the public, until now.

Back for its 20th anniversary, the once player-exclusive pair features a mix of light and dark wash denim across the upper with contrasting orange stitching. Additional details include Kobe’s Sheath logo embroidered on the heel in orange, a white midsole, and a bright orange outsole.

The 2026 iteration will be a Protro release and will come with details not found on standard Air Force 1s. Like the “Mamba Mentality” Air Force 1 Protro from last year, the pair features a snake-inspired outsole tread with mini Kobe Sheath logo traction at the toe and heel. It also comes with a drop-in ReactX foam midsole for improved cushioning.

The Nike Kobe Air Force 1 Protro “Denim” is slated to drop in Summer 2026 on SNKRS and at select retailers. Grab a first look below and stay tuned to Modern Notoriety for an official release date.

Update (05/08/26): Check out the official images below.

Nike Kobe Air Force 1 Protro “Denim”
Color: Obsidian/Safety Orange-White
Style Code: IM1980-400
Release Date: Summer 2026
Price: $150 USD