The "What The Kobe" refers to a special edition of the Nike Kobe 8 Protro basketball sneaker, released in 2025. This edition is a vibrant, eclectic mashup that combines multiple iconic colorways and design elements from the original Kobe 8 series into one bold, mismatched pair. Each shoe features different color palettes, materials, and graphics, celebrating the legacy of Kobe Bryant’s eighth signature sneaker model. For example, the right shoe has a bright orange base with a Volt Swoosh, while the left shoe has a deep blue base with orange accents and reflective silver Nike branding. The sneaker uses lightweight engineered mesh for the upper, Nike React foam for cushioning, and offers excellent traction for performance on the court

. This "What The Kobe" edition originally debuted in 2013 and was re-released in 2025 to honor Mamba Day, April 13th, the anniversary of Kobe Bryant’s final NBA game. The 2025 release also includes a matching apparel collection featuring graphic tees, reversible jerseys, shorts, hoodies, and a multicolor Kobe basketball, all reflecting the sneaker’s patchwork aesthetic

. The design is notable for incorporating over 30 different Kobe 8 colorways and details, making it one of the most visually striking and collectible Kobe sneakers. It also features subtle details like a glow-in-the-dark swoosh and 3M reflective materials. The "What The" series is known for its bold, collage- like approach to sneaker design, and the Kobe 8 Protro "What The" is considered by many sneaker enthusiasts as one of the best "What The" colorways ever released

. In summary, the "What The Kobe" is a tribute sneaker that celebrates Kobe Bryant's legacy by merging the history and design elements of his eighth signature shoe into a unique, performance-oriented basketball sneaker released in 2025.