Kobe 8 EXT Year of the Horse Goes Black This in 2026!

 In Nike, Sneakers

The Kobe 8 EXT Year of the Horse is coming in 2026! But let’s be clear, this is not the 2014 retro. Nike is switching the play entirely with a blacked out EXT version wrapped in horse hair and luxury materials. This is a statement sneaker built for collectors who understand nuance, not nostalgia alone. If you were expecting a copy-and-paste release, think again. This drop leans darker, cleaner, and more premium. And if Jordan Brand’s lineup is any indication, this year’s CNY drops are out of the box, literally and figuratively. (But don’t worry, we might get the 2014 retro still, so keep it locked on our blog!)

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What Makes This Kobe 8 EXT Year of the Horse Different

This version of the Kobe 8 EXT Year of the Horse features a black horse hair upper that instantly separates it from previous releases. The texture is aggressive but refined. It feels intentional. Nike is clearly positioning this as a lifestyle first EXT model rather than a performance court shoe.

The EXT line has always been about elevating Kobe silhouettes with materials you don’t normally see on basketball sneakers. Horse hair takes that concept to the next level. It adds depth, movement, and a luxury feel that makes the shoe stand out without flashy colors!

Release Deets

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Release Date: Spring 2026
Retail: $290
Avg. Resale: N/A

The price tag is much higher than your average Kobe 8 retail. However, it reflects the EXT construction and material choice. Horse hair uppers are not cheap, and Nike knows the audience this shoe is for. Expect limited stock because EXT models usually drop in smaller numbers. And this colorway is designed to be exclusive! Once pairs are gone, they are gone. This sneaker will release through Nike channels, including SNKRS. That alone guarantees competition. Kobe drops do not sit, and this one will be especially tough due to its unique build. So, how can you cop these babies for retail?

How to Cop the Kobe 8 EXT Year of the Horse With TSB

If you want a serious chance at this release, you need more than hope. TSB is built for drops exactly like this. TSB helps you move faster than manual users with automated checkout and efficient task management. That matters when stock is tight. Using TSB can also help you cover additional retailers and maximize coverage across the release. So, get your key today, and you’re good to go. See you around fam!