Nike Kobe 9 Low EM "China" 2025 IH1400-600

The Nike Kobe 9 Low EM “China” 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most talked-about Protro drops of the year. This pair steps away from the usual team-based colour sets and brings back a theme fans have been waiting for. Even without full in-hand photos, the colour code paints a clear picture: University Red, Metallic Gold, and Black. Strong tones. Sharp contrast. A look that fits the story behind the shoe.

The upper sticks with engineered mesh, keeping things breathable and light. It feels quick on the foot. That’s the point of the EM build — fast movement, easy airflow, and no bulk. The tongue is expected to be the standout area again, given the original version’s nod to traditional artwork tied to the Black Mamba name. If Nike leans into that route once more, it could be the detail that pushes this pair into must-have territory.

Underfoot, the setup stays true to the Protro formula. You get a drop-in React midsole for soft, responsive cushioning. It moves well and helps you stay connected to the court. A carbon-fibre plate adds stability without weighing the shoe down. The outsole brings a strong multidirectional tread pattern, giving you grip for sharp cuts and quick stops.

Colour, story, performance — this one has all the markers of a release that’ll heat up fast in the UK. Once retailers start loading product pages, demand will spike. If you’re planning to add the “China” 2025 to your rotation, keep an eye on your usual shops. This is the kind of drop that disappears before people realise it’s live.