Kobe Bryant’s Pre-Signature Sneaker Is Coming Back in an Original Colorway for the First Time

A classic Nike basketball sneaker made famous on the court by late Los Angeles Lakers legend Kobe Bryant is returning in an original colorway in 2026.

According to numerous sources, the Nike Air Zoom Huarache 2K4 will be reissued in its White/Varsity Red/Black colorway during spring ’26. Although the Air Zoom Huarache 2K4 wasn’t an official Kobe signature model, it’s most frequently associated with Bryant and was worn by the basketball great throughout 2004, including in the NBA All-Star Game. 

Essentially a prequel to Bryant’s debut signature sneaker, the Zoom Kobe 1, the Air Zoom Huarache 2K4 was designed by longtime Kobe designer Eric Avar and was beloved by players for its performance capabilities. The concept of the ’04 model was to bring the 1990s Air Flight Huarache model into the current era with a more lightweight material makeup and the addition of Zoom Air cushioning. 

And while the white, red and black colorway wasn’t worn on-court by Bryant, it was one of the model’s original ’04 releases, making the upcoming reissue noteworthy. 

The Air Zoom Huarache 2K4 is set for a busy year in ’26, with several styles already lined up to be released including the aforementioned All-Star look. Also heading to retail are New York Knicks-themed and Triple Black looks along with a Seattle Storm-colored Sue Bird player exclusive.

The last time the Air Zoom Huarache 2K4 was available at retail was during the model’s 2016 retro run, making it a full decade between reissues.

Readers can expect the Nike Air Zoom Huarache 2K4 White/Varsity Red/Black colorway to be released in May for an expected retail price of $190 with availability from Nike’s Snkrs app and select Nike Sportswear retailers. The style code for this pair is IV3782-100.