Kobe Bryant’s Iconic Nike ‘Grinch’ Sneaker Is Turning Into a Football Cleat
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The Nike Kobe 6 “Grinch” is widely considered the best of all of Kobe Bryant’s sneakers, and fans will soon have the chance to wear it on the gridiron in addition to the hardwood.
The Nike Vapor Edge Kobe 6 SE “Grinch” sees the iconic basketball sneaker transformed into a football cleat. Official images still haven’t surface for the November release, but you can expect a relatively straightforward transformation with the familiar lime green scaly upper sitting above a bed of studs.
Bryant debuted his Grinch-themed sneaker during the Los Angeles Lakers’ 2010 Christmas Day matchup against the Miami Heat’s recently assembled Big Three of LeBron James, Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh. The Kobe 6 “Grinch” went on sale that day as well, and fans with courtside seats were even given pairs for free.
Once the NBA loosened its uniform restrictions in 2018 to allow players to wear sneakers deviating completely from team colors on any given night, the Grinch sneakers became a regular choice across the league. Nike then brought back the colorway for the retooled Kobe 6 Protro in 2020, and a “Reverse Grinch” edition with red taking the place of green made its debut just last year.
Original “Grinch” Kobes from 2010 have sold for as much as $2,000 on resale platforms such as StockX, and the 2020 retro has occasionally reached four figures as well.
NFL players have occasionally worn custom Nike Kobe 6 “Grinch” cleats on the field, but the forthcoming release will be the first official edition of the cleat from Nike.
The Nike Vapor Edge Kobe 6 SE “Grinch” will release November 22, likely through the Snkrs app and select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $230.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
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