Anthony Mackie’s Custom Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro in Captain America: Brave New World
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| Anthony Mackie’s (Doc. Special) |
Wartagate.com - Brave New World hits theaters on February 12, 2025, fans are getting a closer look at Anthony Mackie’s portrayal of Sam Wilson, complete with a unique costume design.
One standout element of his outfit is the customized Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro sneakers, specially designed for the film.
According to Variety, Captain America costume designer Gersha Phillips confirmed that Mackie’s footwear was inspired by the Nike Kobe 9 Elite Protro high-top.
She explained that the high-top structure provided ankle support, arch stability, and comfort, ensuring Mackie could perform high-impact action sequences with ease.
The Kobe 9 Elite Protro was also chosen for its superior comfort compared to other Nike models, such as the Air Jordan 4, particularly for those with foot conditions like bunions.
This isn’t the first time sneaker culture has intersected with the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Previously, graphic designer Chris Kemp created a custom Avengers-themed design based on the Nike Air Jordan series for Avengers: Endgame.
Beyond the sneakers, Phillips emphasized that Mackie’s Captain America suit was designed with both functionality and comfort in mind.
Every detail was carefully considered to support Mackie’s physical movements while maintaining the character’s iconic aesthetic.
In one pivotal scene, where President Ross invites Sam Wilson to the White House, Mackie wears a tailored suit inspired by actor Sterling K. Brown’s style. According to Phillips, Mackie loved the look, which perfectly matched the scene’s intended atmosphere.
Ryan Meinerding, Marvel’s Head of Visual Development, collaborated closely on the costume design to ensure continuity between Sam Wilson’s suit and Steve Rogers’ classic Captain America attire. Phillips noted that the materials used were based on Steve Rogers’ original design, with slight adjustments in color to reflect Wilson’s unique take on the role.
For the chest armor, Phillips opted for a rigid, structured texture rather than a softer material. She pointed out that Wilson’s initial suit in The Falcon and the Winter Soldier was a modified version of his previous gear, whereas the new blue Captain America suit was crafted to appear more heroic.
When asked if the suit felt too tight, Mackie reassured Phillips that it fit perfectly, even calling it one of the most comfortable costumes he had ever worn.
With meticulous attention to detail, Captain America: Brave New World promises to deliver a visually stunning and action-packed adventure—one that ensures Sam Wilson’s Captain America stands strong both in style and substance.
