The iconic Nike Kobe 6 ‘Grinch’ sneakers are back, but with an unexpected twist that takes them beyond the basketball courts.
Originally released on Christmas Day in 2010, these sneakers, inspired by the character of the “Grinch” from How the Grinch Stole Christmas by Dr. Seuss, have been transformed into football cleats for the first time, marking a milestone in sports footwear history.
This new design was unveiled by Vanessa Bryant,Kobe’s widow, who shared a teaser on her Instagram story, creating great anticipation among fans.
“Hope you’re on the ‘nasty list’ this year! #KobeCleat #boot #Kobe6 #MAMBA ,” Vanessa wrote in the post, generating even more excitement.
The story of the iconic Nike Kobe 6 “Grinch” sneakers
The Nike Kobe 6 ‘Grinch’ became an instant sensation upon its debut, known for its bold lime green color and red accents that evoked the Grinch. The scaly texture and festive design made these sneakers a coveted item within both basketball and sneaker cultures.
Kobe wore them during a historic Christmas Day matchup in 2010 between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Miami Heat, a game that left a lasting impact on the rivalry between Kobe and LeBron James. Despite Kobe’s 17-point effort, the Lakers were unable to overcome the Heat, who won 96-80.
The new football model and price
Now, the Kobe 6 ‘Grinch’ model has been adapted into football cleats, expanding its legacy and capturing the attention of a new audience. This release, which retains the original lime green and scaly texture, has been met with enthusiasm from fans and collectors.
The cleats, priced at $230, combine Kobe’s signature style with the functionality needed for athletes on the football field. While some NFL players had previously worn custom versions of these cleats, this is the first time Nike has launched an official edition.
The transformation of the Kobe 6 ‘Grinch‘ into football cleats is a testament to Kobe Bryant’s enduring influence, as he remains a transcendent figure in both sport and fashion.
Furthermore, this release is part of the Nike Mamba Program, which continues to celebrate Kobe’s legacy through new models and collaborations, such as the Nike Kobe 6 “USC” cleat, which will be worn by the USC Trojans in their upcoming game against UCLA.
