Before the Protro and the low-cut revolution, Kobe Bryant’s footwear legacy began with German sportswear giant adidas. The partnership was made official in May of 1996 in what appeared to be a mutually beneficial partnership; Bryant’s family was happy to see him at the forefront (whereas he’d be in the background at Nike, Reebok, and even FILA), while adidas was looking for a fresh face and a more “affordable” athlete.