The Air Max designs are some of the brand’s most celebrated and sought-after releases, and when you consider what’s about to land in the coming weeks, it’s easy to see why.
Here we’ll take a look at three of the most talked about upcoming Air Max drops and we’ll also tell you when they’re released so you’ll be ready to pounce when they drop!
In celebration of Women's Day, Air Max is set to unveil a new version in pristine white, aptly named "You Deserve Flowers." Commemorating this special day, the sneakers feature an elegant floral pattern across the upper, maintaining a serene colour palette of white and grey.
Crafted with a leather upper, these sneakers showcase a delicate rose embellishment on the heel, embracing the titular floral theme. Meanwhile, the insole is adorned with a heartfelt message that reads "You Deserve Flowers" in red.
In addition to this release, Nike has curated a collection of sneakers for March, including the Air Max 1 "Easter Celebration," "Golf Royal," and more. For those interested in acquiring these sneakers, the SNKRS app and selected retail stores offer a convenient avenue to explore the latest offerings.
Release Date: 8th March
March welcomes the arrival of a new release from the renowned Air Max DN series, adorned in a striking electric bolt colour scheme.
The Air Max DN Volt features a contemporary blend of metallic silver, yellow, and green, injecting a fresh vibe into the timeless shoe that’s been gracing the feet of runners since 1995.
Kitted out in a vibrant yellow-green mesh upper, these sneakers are paired with a silver sole unit. Below, the transparent air pods allow a glimpse into the interior, adding an element of transparency to the design.
Release Date: Late March
Fans of the iconic and time-tested Air Max 1 silhouette will be pleased to see the upcoming iteration – the "Cacao Wow" colourway, which looks set to be one of the year’s biggest releases.
Showcasing an earthy tonal palette that delivers a sophisticated nude shade to your footwear collection, this one is crafted with premium materials, meaning it oozes quality.
The mid-foot and heel are adorned with tan-hued nubuck leather, providing a rich texture, while the toe section is covered in a breathable mesh material, making it ideal for summer.
Hairy suede material graces the eye stays and heel wraps, to add a touch of luxury. The overall look is elegantly completed with a white sole unit.
So those are three Nike Air Max colourways to get excited about this month. If you miss the drop then check our stock as we should have a variety of rare Nike trainers to keep you satisfied!
]]>Whether it’s musicians, artists or independent designers you’re into, there are many exciting collabs to look forward to this year. So let’s take a look at some of the most anticipated releases that will leave you purring with excitement!
Members of nu metal band Korn have always been fans of Adidas, with various members sporting the three stripes from their “Freak On a Leash’ days back in the late ‘90s.
Following on from their previous collaboration, the band is joining forces with the German sportswear giant once again with another compelling collection set to hit the shelves in 2024.
Scheduled for both spring/summer and fall/winter releases, these collections are poised to showcase groundbreaking new designs.
The collaboration, enriched by the artistic touch of Todd McFarlane and commemorating Korn's 30th-anniversary album, teases distinctive sneaker crossovers that are expected to create a great deal of excitement within the fervent sneaker and metal communities.
Anticipation runs high as enthusiasts await the unveiling of this innovative fusion of music and streetwear.
Release Date: Throughout 2024
Japanese streetwear brands Atmos and Asics share a rich history that spans over two decades, and in that time there have been countless collaborative ventures encompassing sneakers and an array of apparel and accessories.
To kick off this year, Atmos, under the guidance of Hommyo Hidefumi, introduced the Atmos x Asics Gel-Kayano 14 'Tokyo Nightlife.' This release pays homage to the lively and vibrant club scene of the Japanese capital, and the dark and mysterious colourway depicts Tokyo nightlife beautifully.
Release Date: Dropped in January
In a collaboration that’s a whole decade in the making, fashion designer Nigo and Nike are joining forces for a long-awaited sneaker release in 2024.
Departing from Nigo’s Bapesta days, this collaboration leans towards his Human Made aesthetic. Teased with an ‘Escape’-inspired colourway, featuring reworked Air Force 3 Lows, the release is expected to be a showstopper.
Sneaker enthusiasts eagerly await the unique designs that blend Nigo’s distinctive style with the iconic Nike Air Force 3.
Release Date: TBD
Nike fans can expect several exciting releases in 2024, and one of those being talked about is the Air Foamposite One 'Royal’.
The iconic Foamposite One is making a triumphant return, stirring considerable enthusiasm among sneaker enthusiasts. Adhering to the OG-styled 'Royal' colourway and embracing the specifications from 1997, this release promises a meticulous recreation of the original design.
Even more exciting, the Foamposite resurgence doesn't stop at 'Royal.' Enthusiasts can also look forward to the return of the 'Eggplant' makeup and the highly coveted 'Galaxy' Foamposite One from way back in 2012, creating a buzz and adding to the anticipation for these nostalgic releases this autumn.
Release Date: Autumn 2024
The Nike Dunk Low "Ultraman" made its debut in 1999 as part of the CO.JP series, initially exclusive to Japan.
Its limited availability in Japan contributed to its heightened popularity in the West, transforming it into a highly coveted pair. Inspired by the armour of Japanese robot superheroes and featuring a University Red and Silver colour scheme, the Dunk earned the moniker Ultraman, derived from a '70s manga character.
Although no official link exists between the Japanese cartoon and Nike, the brand embraced the nickname. The anticipated design includes a red base with silver accents on overlays, heel tabs, eyelets, and soles, creating a visually striking contrast.
The multi-talented Action Bronson is a well-known figure in the entertainment industry, but he’s not only renowned for his skills in hip-hop but also for his love affair with New Balance trainers.
The star will extend his collection with the imminent launch of the 'Rosewater' 1906R. Building on the triumph of his 990v6 releases in 2023, the American rapper's dynamic and vibrant use of the palette continues to capture attention.
The leaked 'Rosewater' colourway, drawing inspiration from women's-exclusive schemes, showcases distinctive features such as a pink heel counter and lime green rope lace, offering a sneak peek into the promising next chapter of Bronson's collaboration with New Balance.
His authentic connection with the New Balance brand has not only influenced his personal style but has also resonated with fans who appreciate both his music and his impressive taste in footwear.
Release Date: Autumn 2024
The words “timeless classic” get thrown around quite a lot, but the Air Jordan 1 High 85 'Metallic Burgundy' is undoubtedly deserving of these adjectives!
Boasting one of Michael Jordan's most stylish signature shoe colorways, after nearly four decades, this iconic sneaker is experiencing a remarkable revival.
Globally acknowledged for its iconic status, the shoe showcases a premium leather construction adorned with vivid metallic red hues, reaffirming its position as a standout and enduring symbol of style. And with its authentic colour, shape and design, the 'Metallic Burgundy' is captivating sneaker enthusiasts once again.
Release Date: Dropped In February
Travis Scott's collaboration with Nike and Jordan Brand will enter its eighth year in 2024, making it one of the most successful partnerships in the modern era. Therefore it’s no surprise that the anticipation for their upcoming release, speculated to be the rapper's inaugural signature silhouette, has skyrocketed.
While details about the unnamed model are limited, Scott's profound influence on sneaker culture intensifies the eagerness surrounding every launch.
The question is this: can it surpass the triumph of his prior Air Jordans? Sneaker enthusiasts will eagerly await the answer, and they won’t have long to wait as the highly-anticipated release is scheduled for this spring.
Release Date: Spring 2024
In 2023, Edison Chen, the creative force behind Clot, concluded his enduring 18-year alliance with Nike, leaving loyal followers of the Hong Kong streetwear label feeling heartbroken.
However, the brand swiftly rebounded with the introduction of the Clot x Adidas Superstar 'Cloud White.' Infusing a contemporary twist into this timeless silhouette, the collaboration is head to toe in refined details, featuring intricate perforations along the sidewalls and a distinctive loafer-like tassel.
Adding to its allure, the bold sole ensures these sneakers stand out, making them an irresistible addition to any fashion enthusiast's wishlist.
Release Date: Released in February
The upcoming collaboration between Futura and Nike SB Dunk Low is poised to create ripples in the global sneaker scene.
Nike's decision to revisit its collaborative history with the graffiti artist pays homage to his enduring influence on sneaker culture, which is particularly noteworthy in 2024, considering his recent collaboration with the late Virgil Abloh, auctioned off last year.
Leaked images of the upcoming release hint at a vibrant presentation of Futura's artwork adorning the overlays. His signature and the Futura Laboratories logo will take a prominent place on the side panels, tongue and outsole, ensuring an authentic expression of the artist's vision is achieved.
Release Date: Summer 2024
The Nike Dunk Low 'Michigan State,' introduced in 2006, pays homage to the vibrant spirit and distinctive colour palette of the Michigan State University.
Embodying the iconic "Be True To Your School" theme, these Dunk Lows showcase the Spartans team's white and green hues proudly.
Constructed entirely from leather, the sneakers feature white accents and green layers, with a touch of orange highlighting the Nike Air logo on the insoles. Nike branding graces both the heel and the nylon tongue, contributing to the overall athletic aesthetic.
The low-top design is complemented by a sturdy rubber sole, designed with a traction pattern tailored for basketball courts. So whether you plan to use this shoe for sports or everyday use, it’ll be ready to withstand whatever you can throw at it!
So those are some of the most incredible collaborations you can expect this year. As you can see, this is a big year, and many of these rare limited-edition trainers will be available on Footworld.
]]>Back in December, the Jumpman team presented its Spring 2024 Retro Collection, and without a doubt, one of the most anticipated upcoming releases was the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Green Glow”.
Indeed, Jordan Brand is gearing up for another massive year, with countless huge releases in the pipeline that show the world’s biggest sneaker brand is in no mood to take its foot off the gas!
However, while there were many intriguing upcoming releases showcased, one that really got tongues wagging was this stunning green colourway.
The Air Jordan 1 joins the AJ3 in sporting this bright green hue, using leather uppers with colour blocking across the panels and overlays. White adorns the midfoot while black offers a suitable contrast across the Swooshes, eyestays and the collar.
With all this black and white, you might be wondering where it gets its “Green Glow” name! The eye-catching hue enters the frame on the toe box, collar overlay and heel while also covering the rubber outsole which truly puts the finishing touches on this future classic in the making.
The Air Jordan 1 High OG “Green Glow” is set to land in early April, and judging by the bright colours, they’d make a great pair in your summer rotation. If you can get your hands on some, that is, as these are set to go down a storm so you might need to be fast!
If anything changes regarding the release date, we’ll keep you posted so keep those eyes well and truly peeled! Alternatively, if you’re searching for any other hard-to-come-by treads, we have many rare Jordans for sale.
]]>Building on the success of previous drops like the "Lost & Found" and "Royal Reimagined" colourways, this latest iteration continues the trend of infusing classic models with a contemporary twist.
While specific details about the "Black Toe Reimagined" remain undisclosed as of now, enthusiasts can expect the timeless "Black Toe" colour scheme, featuring red accents on the ankle flap, heels and rubber outsole. The inclusion of "Nike Air" branding on the tongues, insoles and underfoot should also make for an authentic touch.
The package presentation is also expected to bring a fresh appeal to this highly anticipated release, although Jordan Brand has remained tight-lipped on many of the details so far.
So save the date – the 2024 edition of the "Black Toe Reimagined" Jordan 1 High OG is set to drop on October 18, 2024.
You might be wondering why Jordan Brand has chosen to delay its release until the back end of the year. This date actually holds particular significance as it coincides with the 40th Anniversary of the day in 1984 when the AJ1 faced a ban from the NBA due to uniform regulations.
So this new addition to the iconic line will mark 40 years to the date since that infamous incident.
In a nod to its iconic heritage, the shoe will prominently feature the classic "AIR JORDAN" text branding on the heel, reminiscent of Michael Jordan's memorable mid-'90s photoshoot pair.
These are set to be rare Jordans, so stay tuned for more details as the release date gets nearer, and don’t miss out on your chance to own a colourway that’s steeped in history.
]]>Dressed in a stylish combination of suede, canvas and leather, the long-awaited Nike Air Max 1 "Wheat" is scheduled to arrive sometime this spring.
True to its name, the colourway is suitably adorned in subtle, beige hues, with white, “Wheat”, Flax, Outdoor Green, and Gum Medium Brown making up the attractive colour scheme.
The Swooshes, tongue, laces, embroidered heels, as well as the midsole are all dominated by white, while the uppers and overlays are dressed in beige suede. To round everything off nicely and add an injection of colour, the Air Max units and eyelets are painted Outdoor Green.
The shoe sits on top of a gum rubber sole which along with the Air technology, guarantees a comfortable wear whether you’re partaking in strenuous exercise or taking a leisurely stroll.
This isn’t the first time Nike has dressed the inaugural Air Max in this popular colourway. Indeed, the brand dropped the first iteration back in 2018, which was quickly snapped up by sneakerheads.
At the minute this style can be found on resale sites fetching a few hundred pounds, but with an updated version on the way you won't have to wait long to grab a brand-new pair!
So keep an eye out for the Nike Air Max 1 “Wheat” arriving in spring 2024! Your feet won’t know what’s hit ‘em!
]]>The Lunar New Year brings a different animal theme each time according to the Chinese Zodiac, and as the Year of the Rabbit comes to an end, it is time for the Year of the Dragon to begin. As the most iconic of creatures, the mythical fire-breathing beast will bring extra spectacle to the festivities.
Celebrations will start when the New Year commences on February 10th and across China, several other Far-Eastern countries such as Taiwan, Malaysia and Korea, plus anywhere in the world with an expat Chinese population, there will be plenty of fun, food and tradition to enjoy.
Fans of limited edition Nike trainers will have an extra reason to celebrate, for the company never misses a chance to mark the event and it has done so in particularly grand style this year, with the “Chinese New Year” Air Force 1 Low.
The Year of the Dragon is marked by the latest silhouette, which comes in a fine gold silk fabric, to which a lot of thematic detailing is added. This includes golden-headed dragons in silver and violet embroidered into the shoe panels and more embroidery on the toes.
Add to that a gold-branded tongue, cream laces and other gold and cream touches and you have a shoe that truly stands out, making it great to wear and wonderful to collect. Even in a large collection, few others will look anything like it.
The appearance isn’t all about dragon iconography, of course, with the Nike Air logo being juxtaposed with a repeating character from the Chinese alphabet, which translates to “double the happiness”.
That doubling might have something to do with the fact that the launch date is February 14th, matching an Eastern festival with a Western one. Indeed, for anyone who fancies getting their loved one a Nike-themed Valentine’s gift, this may be a particularly compelling prospect.
On the other hand, the sheer fact that Chinese New Year and the launch of a new collectible Nike coincide may be enough to double the happiness for many people, so perhaps having Valentine’s Day in there too will triple it.
For many collectors, much of the excitement will come from the fact that this is far from the first time that Nike has brought out a striking new shoe to mark the Chinese New Year.
Last year, for example, the start of the Year of the Rabbit was marked by the launch on January 18th 2023 of the Women’s Dunk Low. This leather product came with a black and white base with an array of coloured overlays, including yellow, pink and orange swooshes, a speckled midsole and an embroidered Nike heel logo.
In 2022, the Year of the Tiger was marked by the drop of Air Force 1 Lows with a white frontage, while the heel was black and orange stripes to resemble a tiger’s coat. There was also a tiger embroidered on the side of the heel.
The New Year of 2021 brought the Year of the Ox, with Nike and Jordan launching a range to celebrate that included The Kyrie 7, the Air Max 2009, the Air Jordan 1 Low and the Jordan Delta Breathe.
Naturally, the substantial number of different shoes meant there was no way they could all have the same design, but they did all include one of three themes: the exploding firecracker, the artisan knot and the natural spring blossom.
It is not just that each New Year provides another opportunity to design something new; the fact that every year has an established traditional theme offers the chance to design something based at least in part on the animal in question, as well as drawing from all sorts of long-established Chinese cultural, symbolic and linguistic traditions.
The 2024 edition trainers are, therefore, the latest in a long line that is becoming something of a modern tradition to align with the old. This combination - some might say marriage (well, it is launching on February 14th) is one that many Nike fans will now be looking out for every time Chinese New Year comes around, even if it is not an event they personally celebrate.
Indeed, while some will be keen on getting their hands on the new gold silhouette Air Force Low 1, there will be just as much anticipation when 2025 rolls around and everyone waits to see what Nike comes up with for the Year of the Snake.
]]>Back in the early 2010s, the Nike Dunk, particularly the revered Dunk SB series, witnessed a sharp decline in popularity. Once the epitome of sneaker culture, these skate-inspired silhouettes found themselves eclipsed by a shift in fashion preferences.
However, as we ll know, fashion is cyclical, so fast forward to the 2020s, and the Nike Dunk resurged from the shadows of obscurity to become one of the brand’s biggest sellers.
This return to popularity was fuelled by many iconic colourways, and 2024 sees the return of some of those show-stopping iterations. So without further ado, here’s five Dunks making a welcome comeback this year.
In 2001, the Veneer emerged as part of the exclusive CO.JP release dubbed the "Ugly Duckling Pack." This collection was known for its entirely suede constructions, featuring bold colour blocks that were reminiscent of vibrant duck feathers.
This particular pair is an exact replica of the original, maintaining the same level of craftsmanship and colouration.
Back in 2020, during the Dunk revival, the colourway made a comeback, albeit not an exact match to the 2001 version. However, the eagerly anticipated 2024 release is set to faithfully recreate the 2001 version to a tee, including the iconic colourways of the Ugly Duckling pack – "Veneer," "Plum," and "Ceramic."
The Dunk Low Veneer showcases green suede on the mudguard, eye stays and heel, creating a striking contrast against the darker brown upper. The toe, quarter panel, mesh collar, tongue and sole boast suede in the same hues.
Playful touches of purple accentuate the lace set, branded logo on the tongue, Nike Swoosh, and heel tab, injecting a burst of colour into this otherwise neutral iteration. The look is completed with a purple rubber sole and a white Dunk midsole, capturing the essence of the iconic Ugly Duckling Pack.
In 2001, the Dunk Low CO.JP "Plum" debuted, and its triumphant return in 2020 played a pivotal role in resurrecting the iconic Nike silhouette. Considering the striking resemblance to the latest edition, it's reasonable to anticipate that the Retro 2024 will showcase a design and colour combination similar to the OG 2001 version.
The sneakers' colour palette seamlessly blends dark and light purple, gracefully enveloping the entire suede upper. Intense red accents are found on the Swoosh, tongue, heel tab and laces, adding a vibrant contrast.
The rubber and foam midsole, which is painted entirely in white, contributes to a comfortable and balanced fit in these sneakers.
First introduced in 2006, this one celebrates the spirit of Michigan State University and its distinctive colour scheme. These Dunk Lows proudly display the iconic "Be True To Your School" combo in white and green, mirroring the Spartans team's vibrant colours.
Crafted entirely from leather, these sneakers boast white accents and green layers, while a pop of orange emerges in the Nike Air logo showcased on the insoles. Nike branding is present on both the heel and the nylon tongue, adding to the overall athletic appeal.
The low-top design sits on a robust rubber sole, featuring a traction pattern specifically crafted for basketball courts.
Another much-awaited return is on the horizon in the form of the Nike Dunk Low Championship Red, slated to make a comeback in the spring of this year.
Staying true to the classic Dunk Low design, this pair maintains the timeless appeal of the Dunk Low line. Dressed in an eye-catching combination of University Red and white, the sneakers showcase an all-leather construction with a stylish two-tone colour-blocking approach.
These kicks make a bold statement with a vivid red focal point that’s complemented by chalk-white overlays. Other elements, such as the logo on the insoles, benefit from accents in an elegant shade of orange.
Originally introduced in 1999, the Nike Dunk Low Ultraman made its debut as part of the CO.JP series, which was exclusively available in Japan. This exclusivity heightened its popularity in the West, making it a highly sought-after pair.
Sporting a University Red and Silver colour scheme, the Dunk drew inspiration from the armour of Japanese robot superheroes, earning the moniker Ultraman, which was a character from '70s manga. Despite the nickname, there's no officially recognised link between the Japanese cartoon and the Swoosh brand, but that didn’t stop Nike!
While no images of the 2024 Dunk Ultraman release have surfaced as of yet, credible rumours suggest it will stay faithful to the 1999 model. Anticipated features include an upper crafted from leather combined with mesh lining and tongue.
The shoe is expected to start with a red base, with silver accents on overlays, heel tabs, eyelets, and soles, creating a visually striking contrast.
So those are some of the most anticipated Nike Dunk trainers expected this year. Many of these iterations have played a huge role in the silhouette’s success, and without them who knows where the Dunk lows, highs and mids would be these days?
With this in mind, it’s good to see them making a comeback. But if you’re keen to get your hands on either of these colourways then their inevitable popularity means you’ll need to be ready to pounce when they drop.
If you’re unaware of some of the most rare Nike trainers, then browse our range as we have countless pairs for you to choose from.
]]>The emergence of the brand in 1964 occurred when several other big sports shoe brands were already well established. Adidas, for example, will be celebrating its centenary in July, while Puma, founded when Rudolf Dassler broke away from his brother Adi, dates from 1948.
Given that by 1964 rival firms had already had their footwear and other kit worn by many successful and high-profile teams and individuals across the sporting landscape, a new entrant like Nike faced a lot of challenges to establish itself. It was by no means sure that it would one day become one of the world’s most recognisable and sought-after brands.
The history of Nike comprises two things; on the one hand, there are obvious dates of foundation, relocation, and the creation and reinvention of names, logos and slogans. But the second, so much more important, is the products; those iconic sports shoes that have taken the brand to the next level.
In 1964, the new company’s name wasn’t even Nike. Blue Ribbon Sports was co-founded by former University of Oregon athlete Phil Knight and his old coach there, Bill Bowerman. The initiative had arisen after Knight had visited the Onitsuka (now Asics) factory in Japan in 1962 and had subsequently helped distribute the Onitsuka Tiger signature shoe in the US.
Working in partnership with Onitsuka They were to create their own version of the Tiger, the Tiger Cortez in 1967. But after splitting with the Japanese firm in 1971, Blue Riband was renamed Nike. Needing a new logo, the firm had one designed; the now iconic swoosh.
Nike now had the name, the logo and from 1980 it was a public company. But it was still far from a big success. All that changed in 1984 because of its dealings with one man: Michael Jordan.
The partnership between Nike and Jordan is one of the greatest success stories of modern sports. It made the sneakers made for the NBA star, the Nike Air Jordan range, among the most collectible footwear on the planet. But it was never a certainty.
In one of the most successful gambles in the history of business, Nike invested the whole of its $250,000 marketing budget for basketball on one rookie player. While Jordan had been outstanding in college basketball, there was no guarantee the 21-year-old would make it in the big league. To build a brand around one player was a big roll of the dice.
This reality and the success that arose from it have been immortalised in the film Air, although there were some clauses that protected the $2.5 million contract Nike offered to beat off rivals Converse to Jordan’s signature.
These included being named in the all-star team, winning ‘Rookie of the Year’, scoring 20 points a game, or making $4 million in sales to get the cash. (in the event, sales hit $70 million within two months).
While these clauses show Nike didn’t quite bet the farm on Jordan, the fact the company was struggling meant it would never be the name it is today if the gamble hadn’t come off. When it did, this made possible the building of a brand that broke new ground in sports shoe marketing.
In the end, however compelling the performance of Jordan was on the court, it was the innovation of Nike designers that helped the company capitalise. The Air Jordan range has got larger and larger. Classics include the Air Max 2090 and Air Max 200 winter shoes, the women’s 97 Air Max and the Junior Nike Air Max 90.
These and many more Air and Air Max sneakers propelled Nike to the top of the sportswear ladder. It was not just Michael Jordan who would be associated with the brand. As the company produced legendary marketing moves such as the 1988 “Just Do It” campaign, other top stars started to come on board.
Among them have been other NHA stars like LeBron James (who, like Jordan, signed as a rookie in 2003), golf legend Tiger Woods (who joined in the year he turned pro, in 1996), tennis superstar Rafael Nadal and legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo.
Arguably, of these Ronaldo has been the biggest asset since Jordan, with his active social media presence and vast fanbase that extends beyond (and is sometimes at odds with) the fans of clubs he has played for, including three of the world’s biggest - Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus.
Manchester United themselves had 13 years of kit deals with Nike and while that partnership has been discontinued, other major clubs are on the Nike roster, such as Liverpool and Paris St-Germain.
However, there is a difference; while football kit launches tend to gain interest mainly from fans of the clubs involved (and happen during the summer break between seasons), there will be many who buy the new shirt just because of the team it represents.
For connoisseurs of the best Nike sneakers, however, there is a greater focus on design, from new innovations and novel flourishes to retro features they may recognise well. Also, because there is no ‘off-season’ when launches come, new product drops can happen at various times, generating lots of excitement beforehand and when each big reveal comes.
There have been some very exciting drops in just the last few months. In November, the Nike Alphafly 3 dropped, a new Nike Air Zoom shoe designed to harness a combination of Nike Air technology with Nike X foam to provide the ultimate marathon runner’s shoe.
During development, these shoes helped Nike’s Kelvin Kiptum achieve a new men’s marathon record of 2:00.35, which suggests it could be a Nike athlete who achieves the Marathon equivalent of the four-minute mile.
Basketball fans keen to see more developments in the Air Jordan legacy may be impressed by the Tatum 2, Jayson Tatum’s second signature shoe, which was released on Christmas Day and features echoes of the 1990s Hoop shoes.
According to Sneaker Freaker, there will be lots of exciting new drops in 2024, and promises a ‘big year’ for Air Max, including a return of the OFG in silhouette form.
After 60 years, Nike is going from strength to strength, with the 61st sure to bring plenty more to get excited about. ]]>Whilst initially a one-off in 2001, Nike and other manufacturers have turned Valentine’s Day into a huge sneaker extravaganza, and you do not need to be in a relationship to pick up a perfect pair that will help you feel the love on 14th February.
In 2024, the standout sneaker is the Nike Dunk Low in a special pink, red and white Valentine-themed colourway, one that is set to drop in February in time for romantics to swoop up and pick up a heart-shaped swoosh of their own.
Complete with heart-themed charms, a floral heart design on the heel and on the sole with the swoosh in the centre, the drop is ideal whether your ideal romantic getaway involves traipsing around town in style, walking through a romantic glade together or even a competitive one on one.
This Dunk Low is set to be released alongside a limited edition of the legendary Air Force 1 Low, in a bright two-tone red and white design which has such fluffy panels it could be confused for a pair of soft cuddles on your feet.
Both of these sneakers are not new to the world of themed colourways, with the Dunk Low’s red and pink redesigns having become a biannual tradition every other February.
Naturally, whilst obviously popular with romantics and sneaker fans, Valentine’s Day sneakers also captivate collectors and the secondary market in general, but why is this the case?
The Feast of St Valentine was a religious feast day that celebrated the martyred saint of the same name, the date established after his burial on the Roman road of Via Flaminia.
However, despite claims to the contrary, neither the historic religious figure nor the Roman holiday of Lupercalia is the reason why the day is connected to love, and it would take nearly a thousand years for the Valentine’s Day we know and love to come about.
This was thanks to the writings of Geoffrey Chaucer, with the Parliament of Fowls, in particular, being the earliest connection between Valentine’s Day (although it is debatable whether he meant the same St Valentine people refer to today), and the romantic love that inspires people and shoe companies alike.
Valentine's Day has an interesting place in the history of sneaker collecting, as it’s a somewhat unusual holiday to inspire shoe collections.
Most sneakers are designed with passion, but that is less based on romantic love and is instead more focused on the love of the game. It is also somewhat limiting in terms of colour scheme, with only red, pink and white being suitable for the occasion.
With that said, as sneaker culture blossomed and bloomed by the turn of the millennium and the twilight of Michael Jordan’s career, there finally appeared to be room to let love into the sneaker world.
The very first time that a shoemaker created a romantically themed sneaker would be Nike, and whilst this was not strictly made for Valentine’s Day, the Nike Air Max 95 2001 followed the template that would be repeated by countless manufacturers ever since.
With the Air Max logo contained in a red and white heart, the bright red upper of the colourway and the use of materials that focused more on a comfy, cuddly aesthetic, it managed to do enough to prove that there was an appeal in focusing on the day.
It would, however, take three more years for Nike to repeat the feat with an Air Force 1 Low in 2004, which took the subtle silhouette, added a bright red shimmering patent leather swoosh and a heart design on the heel.
This design proved to be particularly popular, still commands exceptional prices on the reseller market and proved not only to Nike and to its considerable collector culture that there was a lot of value in Valentine’s Day, but also made its competitors notice too.
Puma, Reebok, Adidas, Asics, Vans and even the Nike-owned Converse line have all made Valentine’s Day specials, and a lot of designers and artists have worked on unique collaborations in the two decades since the first proper themed drop.
It is one of the rare examples of a scheduled annual drop, and it will be fascinating what surprises this annual day of love will bring.
]]>That may also be said of the 2005 remake, when the linked marketing was still based around actual chocolate bars and even an X-Box game, but the situation with the new Wonka film is very different indeed, partly thanks to some extremely rare Nike trainers.
While fans flock to the cinema to watch this prequel to the famous Roald Dahl-inspired story, the actor in the title role, Timothee Chalamet, has put his own stamp on the film and its merchandising by designing his own Wonka-themed Nike Dunks at the firm’s Oregon base.
As GQ Magazine noted, these shoes have a particularly distinctive look about them, highlighting the actor’s own love of sneakers and the eccentricities of his wardrobe in the film. It described them as being “about as lighthearted and whimsical as you’d expect”.
It further described them as “boasting a burgundy tongue and laces reminiscent of the chocolatier's signature jacket and smears of pastel colour cross the body that are meant to look hand-drawn with pencil crayon”.
Just like the golden tickets to visit the chocolate factory that was such a feature of the original story, this is a very limited edition with only five pairs produced. There is a promotional competition to win a pair, which GQ described as being the footwear equivalent of the ‘everlasting gobstopper’.
Given their exceptional scarcity, unique appearance and association with a spin-off of a classic children’s tale, this is sure to be a competition as keenly contested as any quest for a golden ticket.
It also helps that they were designed by an actor whose own blossoming career has made him one of the biggest rising stars in Hollywood. After supporting roles in hits like Interstellar and Don’t Look Up, as well as the TV series Homeland, Chalamet starred in the first part of the remake of Dune as the lead character, Paul Atreides.
With the second episode due out in March and writer Denis Villeneuve close to finishing his script for a trilogy film, he is guaranteed plenty of big screen exposure already, quite apart from the fact that his UK fan club has probably just expanded significantly among the population of Hull. Clearly the Nike swoosh is not the only great accent around.
Could this mean that there will be more collaborations between Timothee Chalamet and Nike? Admittedly, trainers may not be everyone’s ideal footwear for running across large stretches of sandy desert, but it seems pretty clear that Wille Wonka and Paul Atreides will not be the only characters he plays in big roles over the next few years.
As the big roles keep coming, we should expect several more Chalamet-inspired Nike designs. Fans will hope, however, that future limited editions are not quite as rare as one of the golden tickets.
]]>Initially posted by KicksFinder in July 2023, with more details provided by other publications later, the “Shelltoe” collaboration is a special variant of Adidas’ long-running Superstar line, in collaboration with TMNT’s original creators Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird.
The Shelltoes, set to arrive in early 2024 to coincide with the 40th anniversary of the comics, feature a green upper with a white sole and the toe is decorated with a turtle shell design.
There is also the delightful touch of two red bandanas, a reference to the identical appearances of the original graphic novel Turtles before Leonardo, Donatello, Michelangelo and Raphael had their more distinct colour schemes and personalities.
The muted greens and the oozing pizza insole also contribute to that original aesthetic, and point the shoes far more towards being a collector's item rather than another merchandising opportunity. The $130 initial asking price places it in Air Jordan-level prestige sneaker territory too.
However, to understand what makes this so different, we need to look back at why TMNT is one of the most unlikely commercial juggernauts in history.
Of course, most people who lived through the 1980s, 1990s and 2000s will have probably seen the Turtles’ green faces and iconic bandanas on basically everything you can slap a turtle-shell logo onto.
Even in the UK, where a moral panic over the word ‘ninja’ led to several of the main characters’ signature weapons being censored and the very name of the show altered, the Teenage Mutant
Hero Turtles were an unstoppable force in popular culture.
It is, therefore, often surprising to people who are familiar with the cartoon and little else, that the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles were initially written as a complete joke in the underground comics world.
Mr Laird and Mr Eastman were both relatively young newcomers to the comics world, making a pittance from various local magazines when they met up in Massachusetts and struck up a working relationship and a friendship so strong that both moved to New Hampshire together.
In late 1983, the first ever drawing of a masked anthropomorphic turtle wielding nunchucks was drawn by Mr Eastman, purely to get a laugh out of Mr Laird, who then added the words “teenage mutant” to “ninja turtle”.
All of this was a parody of a lot of Bronze Age comic conventions at the time, with the teenagers being a reference to Teen Titans, the mutants X-Men, the ninja from various pop culture sources and the concept of silly animals being seen in characters such as Cerebus the Aardvark Rocket Racoon, particularly since turtles are not known to be fast animals.
Much of the initial backstory was a parody of the comic Daredevil and the fact that four ninja turtles trained to use Japanese weaponry were named after Renaissance artists was seen as part of the joke.
Given the speculative nature of the market TMNT is set to enter in 2024, part of the reason for their success was that the series premiered during a peak in the speculative comic book market, particularly for independent works compared to the mainstream limited editions popular with collectors later.
This early momentum helped the first issue to sell its entire run of 3,275 copies in a matter of weeks, with the secondary market offering enormous markups for the debut.
The momentum ultimately also led to the licensing agreement that would turn the Ninja Turtles into an outright phenomenon, as Playmates Toys would not only develop a gigantic merchandising run but also sublicense the rights of the trademark to make a TMNT cartoon.
This cartoon, with its iconic theme song, lasted for ten seasons from 1987 until 1996, with a softer tone than the original comic but one that led to a much larger and younger fanbase.
It is because of this cartoon that not only do these new Adidas crossover sneakers exist, but also that they are far from the first, given how many official and unofficial pieces of Turtles footwear exist thanks to the cultural footprint of the series.
By the 1990s, the merchandising empire of the Ninja Turtles was incomprehensibly large, with not only live-action feature films and TV series but even a rock concert tour. In total, the merchandise sales made it the third-biggest toy franchise in history up to that point.
However, what makes the Adidas collaboration interesting is the return to the roots of a franchise that aside from a few years in the late 1990s, has never truly vanished from the pop culture zeitgeist.
]]>The new shoe hits shelves on December 8th, after rumours of a collaboration have been circulating for months to celebrate Stüssy’s 35th birthday.
The latest product was inspired by the Air Jordan 4 and features a chunky exterior, basketball-themed detail, and co-branding on the tongue and underfoot.
Stüssy, which is known for transforming classic materials, upgraded the Air Flight 89’s leather for a more luxurious feel. Faux snakeskin has also been added across the lateral and medial sidewells to give it that stylish look.
It is available in three colours - the White/Habanero Red, Black/White and White/Pecan - while more colours are expected to emerge next year.
This is not the first time Stüssy has collaborated with Nike, as it famously transformed the Air Zoom Spiridon by covering it in hemp in 2020. The following year, it added soft nubuck leather to the Air Huarache.
Stüssy also launched comfortable sportswear with Nike in the form of a varsity jacket, water repellent shorts, fleece pants, hoodies and a sweat-wicking long-sleeve top earlier this year.
Air Flight 89s first launched onto the scene in the late ‘80s when huge basketball stars of the time, including Michael Jordan, caused their popularity to surge. Tinker Hatfield’s design was so revolutionary that it has been re-released multiple times over the years.
It was only when the Air Jordans popularity soared that the Air Flight 89s took a step back before they were freshened up and brought back in 2022.
Michael Jordan’s infamy at the time meant that nothing could compete with Air Jordans, and they remained so popular that the Brand Jordan was introduced in 1997. Since then, it has produced both shoes and clothing wear, with the latest model, the Air Jordan XXXVII being released to the public as recently as July 2022.
The newest version of the Nike Air Flight 89 has had a modern facelift, with a bouncy midsole, mesh collars, and midfoot swooshes. It also comes with SS motifs, printed insoles and comes in a co-branded box.
Of course, ‘Nike Air’ phrasing still features at the rear of the sneaker, so everyone can see what brand of sneaker you are wearing.
Even those who aren’t big NBA fans are sure to want to get their hands on a pair of these, whether they even play basketball or not. The comfort high-rise sneaker exudes both style and substance meaning they are sure to sell out quickly, particularly during the pre-Christmas shopping rush.
It is no secret that Nike loves a collaboration, and has worked with many celebrities and other designers over the years.
These include the likes of Louis Vuitton and Dior, as well as Drake, Serena Williams, and even Vogue’s infamous editor Anna Wintour, with die-hard Nike fans remembering the AJI High Zip AWOK University Red or off-white Sail sneaker featuring a circle-pull metal zipper.
One of Nike’s most recent unions is with England footballer Marcus Rashford, with the manufacturer using the rising star to catapult the new sneakers across the world.
Having played for Manchester United for eight years already, Rashford has a ready-made fanbase. In fact, nearly 17 million people follow the 26-year-old on Instagram.
So it is not hard to see why Nike created the Better Believe It collection with the young footballer, who is also well known for its altruistic efforts when campaigning for free school meals.
The shoes are white with elements of orange, pink and yellow, so are a great choice if you want something to brighten up your wardrobe.
They also feature his initials ‘MR’ on the collar, while “When you believe in yourself, incredible things can happen” is inscribed on the heel.
Rashford fans will also like the footballer’s own version of the Nike Air Max Pulse, which comes in light blue, white and grey, although there is yet to be a red and white version to match his Manchester United colours.
Only time will tell whether his Nike collab will become as popular as the Air Jordans were, but Nike is currently focussing on its Stüssy partnership.
The latest basketball sneakers prove that Nike, which has been going for 60 years, is still leading the way at producing shoes that tick the boxes when it comes to both style and comfort.
]]>Nike released the Vaporfly sneaker in 2017, which revolutionised long-distance running trainers. The brand stated it could improve speeds up to four per cent, thanks to its ability to reduce energy loss and maximise efficiency.
Its carbon-fibre plate in the midsole worked like a springboard to help runners minimise their effort while still keeping pace. Its lightweight and responsive foam ZoomX also provided runners with cushioning and responsiveness.
So impactful were the shoes in marathon races that the technology was scrutinised as providing athletes with performance-enhancing capabilities.
However, this didn’t stop Nike continuing to improve its first marathon shoe, and it soon released an updated version called Vaporfly 4% Flyknit, which had a sock-like fit.
Later came the Vaporfly Next%, with Vaporweave, which was intended to prevent rain from affecting a runner’s performance.
Over the years, it has added new models, including the Vaporfly Next 4% By You and Vaporfly Next% 2, before it launched an even more impressive running trainer, the Alphafly, in 2020.
There have been several versions of this shoe since then, with the most recent having been trialled by Kelvin Kiptum earlier this autumn.
He happened to break the men’s record when he took part in the Chicago Marathon, finishing the race in 2:00:35.
The winner of the women’s race, Sifan Hasan, also wore a pair that day, and managed to achieve the record of the second fastest time in history.
Though the Alphafly 3 is not currently available, it is due for release in January 2024, which could mean there are more marathon records broken next year.
For this model, Nike has used a double dose of Air Zoom units, which helps launch runners.
A full-length carbon-fibre plate also propels them forward and creates a smooth stride, while the ZoomX foam midsole, which is positioned from heel to toe, keeps feet fresh and comfortable and gives runners a responsive ride.
Nike has, undoubtedly, created technology that has changed marathon running forever, with Carrie Dimoff, who leads the Alphafly development team, explaining the shoes are all about conserving the runner’s energy.
“If we can store more of your energy, we can return more of that energy and you can run more efficiently,” she told Runner’s World.
Much of the success of the Alphafly is down to its foam, which Nike perfected after a series of tests. It developed its own version of Pebax, which is a proprietary polyether block amide (PEBA) thermoplastic elastomer (flexible plastic).
Essentially, this material can be made as hard or soft as you want, and in the marathon shoes it has used Pebax to “produce the most energy return”, according to Nike Running footwear product manager Elliott Heath.
Whatever its secret is, Kiptum’s recent record-breaking success shows it is certainly working.
]]>That may also be said of the 2005 remake, when the linked marketing was still based around actual chocolate bars and even an X-Box game, but the situation with the new Wonka film is very different indeed, partly thanks to some extremely rare Nike trainers.
While fans flock to the cinema to watch this prequel to the famous Roald Dahl-inspired story, the actor in the title role, Timothee Chalamet, has put his own stamp on the film and its merchandising by designing his own Wonka-themed Nike Dunks at the firm’s Oregon base.
As GQ Magazine noted, these shoes have a particularly distinctive look about them, highlighting the actor’s own love of sneakers and the eccentricities of his wardrobe in the film. It described them as being “about as lighthearted and whimsical as you’d expect”.
It further described them as “boasting a burgundy tongue and laces reminiscent of the chocolatier's signature jacket and smears of pastel colour cross the body that are meant to look hand-drawn with pencil crayon”.
Just like the golden tickets to visit the chocolate factory that was such a feature of the original story, this is a very limited edition with only five pairs produced. There is a promotional competition to win a pair, which GQ described as being the footwear equivalent of the ‘everlasting gobstopper’.
Given their exceptional scarcity, unique appearance and association with a spin-off of a classic children’s tale, this is sure to be a competition as keenly contested as any quest for a golden ticket.
It also helps that they were designed by an actor whose own blossoming career has made him one of the biggest rising stars in Hollywood. After supporting roles in hits like Interstellar and Don’t Look Up, as well as the TV series Homeland, Chalamet starred in the first part of the remake of Dune as the lead character, Paul Atreides.
With the second episode due out in March and writer Denis Villeneuve close to finishing his script for a trilogy film, he is guaranteed plenty of big screen exposure already, quite apart from the fact that his UK fan club has probably just expanded significantly among the population of Hull. Clearly the Nike swoosh is not the only great accent around.
Could this mean that there will be more collaborations between Timothee Chalamet and Nike? Admittedly, trainers may not be everyone’s ideal footwear for running across large stretches of sandy desert, but it seems pretty clear that Wille Wonka and Paul Atreides will not be the only characters he plays in big roles over the next few years.
As the big roles keep coming, we should expect several more Chalamet-inspired Nike designs. Fans will hope, however, that future limited editions are not quite as rare as one of the golden tickets.
]]>The website in question, with the rather utilitarian title of Nike Teens, is produced in combination with marketing agency and brand innovators R/GA as a digital space dedicated to teenagers.
The aim, according to R/GA, was to create a space that “empowers” teenage girls to develop a “lifetime relationship” with not only Nike themselves but also sport in general, with the help of relatable teen influencers spotlighted throughout the online zine.
The result is exceptionally similar in tone to other teen-focused websites such as Teen Vogue, which combines fashion tips, health advice and advertorial content with a strong tone of self-empowerment, inclusion and authenticity.
Alongside articles from Nike-sponsored influencers such as teenage runner Issey Kyson and freestyle dancer Fleur Zwartkruis, there are articles about how to synchronise training regimens around the menstrual cycle to improve performance and how to reduce breast pain when training.
All of this is built around a Corporate Memphis art style, lots of dynamic images and video, and a lot of links to “shop the fit”, ultimately stopping all but the least discerning from feeling like they are being advertised to at every turn.
Some articles, such as the spotlight articles of the two influencers, are more innocuous, limiting the relentless marketing to a call-to-action button at the end and every picture having their cover stars draped head-to-toe in Nike branded clothes.
This is also found in the main video series on the site, You Got This, a series of short documentaries about young female athletes who faced adversity and won. A similar article about seeking expression through dance also works very well with minimally intrusive branding.
Other parts, such as trending products, fit guides, shoe finders and an article showcasing the top shoes for street dancing, are far more overt in their advertising in a way that is far more clear to anyone tapping on an article.
The focus is as much on apparel as it is on footwear, but there are several articles and a footwear finder app designed to help girls find the right shoes for them.
It will remain to be seen whether Nike Teens, simple title and everything, is a success or not. The first batch of articles set a strong tone of self-empowerment and if it does become a social media success, that would translate to wider sales of sneakers.
With teenagers one of the demographics most focused on self-expression, this could take them away from the conventional styles and designs found on Nike Teens and towards rarer, more expressive sneakers found only through resellers.
Ultimately, the message being sent, whether it is authentically meant or an example of cause marketing, is one that reaches the heart of why people wear unique designer sneakers in the first place.
Compared to other forms of footwear obsessed with a uniform style, sneakers are wildly expressive and can be effectively any colour, any style and any design.
]]>However, with Jordan now in retirement, it is more contemporary sporting superstars that are taking centre stage, with a new Nike collection being launched by England and Manchester United footballer Marcus Rashford.
The collection, Rashford’s first, are part of the ‘Better Believe It’ collection and contain the player’s own signature colours, mainly white with elements of orange, pink and yellow. The ’MR’ initials is on the collar and the signature phrase: “When you believe in yourself, incredible things can happen” is written on the heel.
As well as the shoe, Rashford is to get his own Nike Air Max Pulse, coloured in light blue and white with shades of grey - although some might raise some eyebrows at the presence of colours more associated with rivals Manchester City than United’s red.
Perhaps it is little surprise that Marcus Rashford should be the subject of such a campaign, given he is seen as a superstar both on and off the field.
A member of an increasingly potent England team, he had a stellar season at club level last term, netting a career-best 30 goals in all competitions, including in the League Cup final, helping Manchester United to their first trophy in six years.
Some might be a little less complementary about the timing now, given the player is having a dip in form in the current season with just one goal so far for his club, matching the struggles of his team.
However, the saying ‘form is temporary, class is permanent’ may apply here and it should be just a matter of time before Rashford is finding the back of the net on a regular basis again.
What sets the young Mancunian apart from other players, however, is his high off-field profile. In the height of the Covid-19 pandemic, he was a persistent campaigner for free school meals and also helped run a campaign to encourage more reading in schools, starting his own book club in connection with the National Literary Trust.
Recognition came in the form of an MBE and also a mural in the Withington area of Manchester, making Marcus Rashford a national treasure way beyond the world of sport. Even within the highly partisan world of football, he is admired well beyond the confines of Manchester United’s support at Old Trafford.
That he should now be recognised and enjoyed through the shoes on people’s feet is only logical. This is a man whose classic rages-to-riches tale of a working class lad who has become a star at the giant football club he grew up supporting, a classic case of showing just how who believe in themselves can indeed make incredible things happen.
As his career unfolds, there may be many more Nike collectibles to come associated with the inspirational Marcus Rashford.
]]>After successful YEEZY sales in May and August of 2023, there are strong rumours of a third planned drop of the remaining stock that had remained in storage after the cancellation of the partnership in late 2022.
This has created some excitement, as there are several leaked but currently unreleased silhouettes and colourways that could be released by surprise, as was the case in August when the YEEZY 350 Blue Tint, a sought-after sneaker amongst collectors, dropped.
It is strongly believed that there is a lot of leftover stock left, given that Adidas announced that they had continued production on sneakers whilst they were in discussions about whether they could even be sold.
The reason why the partnership ended is by this point well-known and the decision to sell the sneakers, whilst welcomed by purveyors of rare and esoteric sneakers, is not one that has come without controversy.
Kanye West, after proclaiming a level of support for one of the most evil men of the 20th century and engaging in repeated bigoted rants, went from one of the most sought-after names in fashion to persona non grata, and whilst Adidas have cut ties, there are risks to selling the shoes.
By selling YEEZYs that had already been made, Ye would receive revenue as part of the agreement, and when the first rants were revealed, he even bragged that Adidas were dependent on his star power. Cutting ties cost the company over £1bn.
Adidas have tried to sidestep this by donating some of the leftover proceeds to the Anti-Defamation League, as well as the Philonise & Keeta Floyd Institute for Social Change, and tried to avoid the risk of association with Ye’s hateful rhetoric.
Whilst Ye himself owns the YEEZY brand and initially claimed to be planning to release his own line of sneakers, he has been relatively quiet regarding the Adidas sales, walking around places wearing just a pair of socks instead.
Exactly when and how this third sale will take place is a mystery but it is one that will likely be historic.
]]>That is why Nike has decided to join forces with Spotfiy to encourage more females in England to get active, not only boosting their physical health but improving their mental health too.
The Make Moves Fund is a social impact-led campaign to motivate young women to take part in sport or exercise.
It will provide grants of £20,000 to community groups around the UK to launch programmes designed for girls that combine movement with something all teenagers can get into, music.
As Nike explains: “[Music] creates the space to find freedom through expression and joy in community.”
“So, to get girls moving, we’re reimagining sport through their eyes,” it adds.
London-based girl group FLO is behind the initiative, believing that dance and music can be empowering to young women.
According to the band it enables you to “leave everything else behind and just be confident”.
Others that have thrown themselves behind the collaboration include Nike dancer Joelle D’Fontaine, teen girls nominated by Black Girl Frest, and Gurls Talk mental wellbeing expert Ciara Dockery.
Organisations that want to inspire girls in their area to get moving through music have until November 30th to apply for the fund.
Of course, this isn’t the only momentous collaboration Nike has been involved in, as the sports brand teamed up with the likes of basketball player Michael Jordan for the Nike Air Jordan 1 in the ‘80s.
It also created the Nike Air Mag for Back to the Future Part II; joined forces with Andre Agassi with the Nike Air Tech Challenge II; and designed the Nike Shox Glamour for Serena Williams, which are just a few of its unions.
]]>Nike has answered this question with the ISPA Link Axis, a revolutionary leap towards creating fully circular shoes.
This footwear not only offers a brand-new look and feel but also addresses the pressing concern of waste reduction and sustainability in the fashion industry.
They represent a significant shift in the way we think about footwear. Its core philosophy is rooted in the idea that every part can be recycled. In the past, shoes were designed with little consideration for their end of life impact on the environment. New shoes challenge this norm by embracing a vision of progress over perfection, creating a product with a second life.
One of the key principles driving the design of new sneakers is modularity. By using interlocking components, it has been made easier to disassemble and recycle the shoe's various parts. This approach not only reduces waste but also paves the way for a more sustainable future where shoes can be easily refurbished, repurposed or recycled.
In addition to modularity, trainers have employed the principle of waste reduction by using as few materials as possible. This thoughtful design choice minimises the environmental impact associated with production and disposal. The result is a shoe that not only looks and feels great but also aligns with our collective responsibility to protect the planet.
An exciting aspect of evolving technology is the absence of glue in its construction. This means that the different components of the shoe can be separated more easily, making recycling and reuse far more feasible. The commitment to eliminating glue in shoe manufacturing is a crucial step in reducing the environmental footprint of footwear.
Waste reduction doesn't stop there. By continuing to explore innovations in waste reduction, teams aim to reduce excess inventory and minimise the production of shoes that may never find a home. This approach not only reduces waste but also demonstrates the industry’s dedication to making responsible choices at every stage of the shoe's lifecycle.
It's important to note that it isn't just about sustainability; it's about pushing the boundaries of footwear design. Utilising sensations highlighted by a "blown" plastic midsole and mechanical air cushioning, this combination provides the perfect balance of responsiveness and bounce, ensuring that wearers feel good about their environmental choices.
But what does all of this mean for the future? It means that brands are pioneering a new era of sustainable fashion. It is more than just a shoe; it's a statement of intent. It challenges the industry to think differently, to consider the environmental impact of every design choice and to embrace circularity as the way forward.
Imagine a world where shoes are not just disposable fashion items but valuable resources that can be repurposed and recycled. This future is within reach, thanks to the dedication to reducing waste and pushing the boundaries of sustainable design is a beacon of hope in a fashion world that often prioritises trends over ethics.
In conclusion, it represents a significant step towards a more sustainable and circular future for footwear. Its focus on waste reduction, modularity and responsible materials choices sets a new standard for the industry. While new technology makes shoes undoubtedly stylish and high performance, it's also a testament to the dedication to improving our world.
Future shoes remind us to imagine what comes next and to be excited about the possibilities of a more sustainable future for fashion and beyond. It's a reminder that we can, and should, strive for progress over perfection.
]]>Since AF1’s launch in 1982, they have become one of the most iconic trainers of all time, and Nike has teamed up with the likes of Louis Vuitton and Tiffany & Co for new versions of the sneaker in the past.
Its latest shoe, a hybrid between trainers and brogues, is expected to be just as popular as these collaborations, allowing people to wear them both to work and for leisure.
So, how did Nike pull this off? Creating a sneaker that wouldn’t look out of place in the boardroom is no easy feat, but once again, Nike has achieved the impossible.
The sneaker has the classic look of a trainer, but its added details make it that much smarter.
For instance, it features perforations on the lateral and medial sidewalls, serrated edges around the laces, and slim waxed laces. Here you’ll also find a brush steel dubrae making them look a little more luxurious.
The subtle colours of off-white and brown add a retro vibe to the trainer, while the plaid pattern on the heel isn’t too dissimilar to Burbery’s classic look, elevating it to designer levels.
The shoes themselves are a cream leather, and there’s a brown leather tag stitched into the tongue. Reminding everyone these brogues are, indeed, sneakers, there’s ‘Nike Air’ logo on the tag and more branding on the heel badge.
For a more subtle look, however, it has left its infamous Nike tick the same off-white colour as the rest of the shoe.
The thing that will really help these AF1s sell out is how comfortable they are. The beige midsole is infused with Air Tech, which means they are incredibly cushioned.
So whether you’re catching up with friends, attending a meeting or planning to hit the basketball court, you’ll be as comfortable as possible.
Therefore, it’s not surprising that fans are chomping at the bit to get their hands on the AF1 Brogues as soon as they can.
The shoes are expected to be released later this season, so they won’t have to wait long, and they could even make fantastic Christmas gifts if you know someone who would love the hybrid sneaker.
Those who can’t wait for the latest release can choose from Nike’s huge collection of AF1 sneakers in the meantime.
In fact, there are over 2,000 versions of the AF1 so you’ll never be short of choice.
You could choose the original mesh sidewall model that came out in the early ‘80s, a smarter leather midsole from 2004, or a zippered upper shoe released in 2015.
For its 35th anniversary in 2017, there were five collaborations on the classic white-on-white AF1 designs.
This included the limited edition Virgil Abloh’s Louis Vuitton and AF1 collaboration, which, unsurprisingly, featured the designer brand’s classic brown and beige print. These shoes were so popular, they have even become collector’s items!
It’s not known whether the AF1 Brogues will be collectors’ favourites in years to come, but sneaker fans could find getting hold of them is as good an investment choice as it is a fashion one.
]]>Much like MJ’s legendary 1995 fax that proclaimed his return to the NBA, the return of the “Satin Bred” variation of the famous Air Jordan 1 OGs has captivated so many people who missed the exceptionally rare shoes the first time around.
The reason for this can be told through two stories, 32 years apart, one which created the legacy of the Air Jordan brand and the aura of the Air Jordan 1 silhouette in particular, and another about a variation that within days sold for ten times its price on reseller websites.
The Bred colourway was originally known as the “Banned” colourway, and there is an exceptionally literal reason for this that relates to one of the most nonsensical rules in a sport filled with them.
Whilst since around 2018 the NBA has significantly relaxed their rules on sneaker colours and designs outside of third-party logos, for a very long time there were strict rules on what players could and could not wear, designed for a time when people almost invariably wore Converse.
The rule was that shoes needed to match the team’s uniforms as well as the shoes their teammates were wearing, which was typically enforced by requiring any basketball shoes to have at least 51 per cent of its colourway be white, with the rest being in the team’s colours.
By 1984, when a certain brash, transcendental superstar by the name of Michael Jordan was drafted to the Chicago Bulls, that was simply not going to work. He was working with Nike on the biggest signature shoe since Chuck Taylor and would not be denied any chance to express himself.
On 18th October 1984, before the legendary Air Jordan 1 was even finalised, Michael Jordan wore a somewhat unusual set of the similarly designed Nike Air Ship for his pre-season game against the New York Knicks.
They featured a primarily black colourway with red highlights, prompting a very angry letter from the office of then-NBA executive vice president Russ Granik on orders from head David Stern, effectively banning the sneakers.
There are some revisions to this history on Nike’s part; he never wore them during a game so he was never fined $5000 per game and opted for still striking and influential red and black “Chicago” colourway for the 1984-85 season.
Regardless, it is still seen as a landmark moment that birthed sneaker culture as we know it.
Over three decades later, the “Banned” colourway was largely renamed “Bred” and started to appear more widely in retros and in materials besides the traditional leather.
Satin Bred was inspired by Michael Jordan’s huge collection of satin flight jackets and immediately drew interest from collectors, the overwhelming majority of which almost immediately missed out on the 501 pairs that were released.
The 2023 rerelease is set to release with much more availability, although exactly how much and whether there will be another run on the Satin Breds will remain to be seen.
]]>However, there is one event that truly stands out, the annual Nike SNKRS Day. Nike has revealed that the 2023 edition will be taking place on Saturday, September 9th, with this year being the first one all its online members can access via the SNKRS app, wherever they live in the world.
Previously, the event has been confined to Europe, despite Nike being based in the US. App users are invited to “come through to celebrate the people, products and stories that connect us on 09/09/23.”
What that will involve remains to be seen, with some possible teasers and maybe the odd big reveal before the day itself arrives and provides some surprises. However, it may be that previous SNKRS Days will provide a hint as to what to expect. There could be re-launches, new shoe drops and some exclusives.
SNKRS Day 2022, for instance, brought four new releases and a whole host of live discussions and content surrounding them. The day began with the release of the Air Jordan 4 'Canyon Purple' shoe, with app users able to make an early purchase.
Following this was Air Force 1 ‘SNKRS Day’ in the early afternoon, the Air Max 1 'Tour Yellow'. These were both revealed in live shows and finally the Air Jordan 4 'Canyon Purple' was given its own live show. In the evening came the last drop, the Air Jordan 1 High OG 'Yellow Taxi'.
The global nature of this year’s event is one change from the previous five editions, the first having taken place in 2017. The other is that the date has moved. In previous years it was always on August 8th, so the late announcement that not has been moved back may catch some on the hop a little.
However, while that may leave some a bit frustrated that they have to wait longer, for others it may just make the build-up and anticipation that bit more tantalising. Either way, it is an event that simply cannot be ignored.
Annual themed days like this have been a growing feature of Nike’s calendar in recent years. For example, Nike Air Max Day is an annual event that takes place in March, celebrating the air max range and dropping new releases. It has been going on since 2014.
These dates certainly give Nike followers plenty to be excited about and SKRS Day 2023 will be bigger than ever. It remains to be seen if there will be some exciting new element of the coverage designed to reflect the fact that it is now a global event. But in any case, it is something not to be missed, even if you have to wait a month and a day longer for it.
]]>However, when it comes to the third Nike x Billie Eilish collaboration, as has been the case with her first two collabs, there is a focus not just on brand cross-pollination but also practising what both the singer and the company have been preaching.
The first collaboration with an Air Force 1 High silhouette used synthetic leather, whilst the follow-up AF1 Low was made primarily from recycled material.
For the third collaboration using the legendary Air Alpha Force ‘88 design, Nike and Billie are taking sustainability a step further, with much more of the shoe being either recycled or made from sustainable, less polluting materials.
This includes at least a quarter of the whole shoe being made from recycled material, including the lining, sock liner, front strap, eye stays and some of the upper part of the shoe.
However, the most interesting part is the use of algae ink thanks to a collaboration with LivingInk as opposed to carbon black ink.
By-products of a process that creates blue food colouring are used to create a biologically-based black pigment which, due to the carbon-capturing nature of algae, makes it carbon negative at scale without displacing traditional food crops in the way some bio-based products can.
Due to its formulation, it can be used with standard textile inking machines, so outside of buying this ink instead of carbon black, Nike do not need to do very much alteration to their standard manufacturing system to get these environmental benefits.
So whilst the new sneaker had an expectation to sell significantly thanks to the names involved, its most sustainable production might be its most lingering legacy, and it will be interesting to see if other companies follow suit.
]]>In the world of tennis, for example, there is the famous Adidas Stan Smith, a design that is now synonymous with the tennis shoe, but also one with a surprisingly complex history.
For a start, the sneaker was not originally called the Stan Smith but instead was the Adidas Robert Haillet in 1965, named after the second-ever French tennis player to go professional.
Mr Haillet was a skilled amateur player and player in the Davis Cup for nearly a decade, but by 1965, his professional career was winding down at the age of 36. By 1971 he had retired entirely from tennis.
Rather than keep the name endorsement, Horst Dassler of Adidas looked for another player to endorse the shoe, and found American player Stan Smith, at one point ranked number one in the world and a winner of both the US Open and Wimbledon Championships.
A year after his win at Centre Court, Adidas signed a contract with Stan Smith, but strangely the shoe continued to be called the Robert Haillet, leading to a strange tongue design which had Mr Haillet’s name but Stan Smith’s portrait.
This was rectified in 1978, and the Stan Smith has become one of the most iconic shoe designs ever made, to the point that to many people who are less familiar with Mr Smith’s illustrious career know him more for being the face of a famous shoe than for his on-court exploits.
Whilst no longer a practical tennis shoe, the Stan Smith is still hugely popular and much like other famous and iconic designs has seen a wide range of designs, colourways and artistic endeavours.
]]>That is exactly what is on offer with the latest Air Max, the Nike Air Max Solo Silver Light. GQ Magazine has been swift to spot just how much of the 1990s Air Max heritage has been built into it.
The magazine stated: “While the finer details have yet to be released, even at a glance from official imagery, you can spot plenty of details that have been borrowed from icons past.”
Among these was the light silver panelling, which provided “1995 Air Streak Lite vibes”, or the “subtle lines and grooves” of the single air bubble in the sole that it describes as an “element taken straight from 1991's Air Max 180”. It also compared the ribbed heel badge to that found on the more contemporary Air Max 90.
The review noted that this is not even the first Air Max produced this year, with the Air Max Pulse launched in the spring also coming with some retro elements.
Evidently, it seems Nike has hit on a pattern with the Air Max range that could see a string of new products, each providing a bit of retro.
Indeed, Complex recently reported that the original Nike Air 180, the ‘Ultramarine’ is to make a comeback next year, bringing back to life the original that Michael Jordan wore with the US ‘Dream Team’ at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
The article said contacts at Nike leaked the news out, with the release set to be a limited edition model, but the maker refused to respond to requests from Complex for comments. But if it’s true, it suggests that there is a lot more to come from the Air Max range.
]]>The brand has announced a new partnership with subscription-based performance tracking app and website Strava, helping connect the most famous of brands to the everyday performance of anyone who wants to get fit and improve their athletic and sporting feats.
At the heart of the deal is the ability of subscribers to share details of their efforts to both the Nike Run Club and the Nike Training Club Apps on the one hand and to Strava on the other, which enables them both to track their workouts and connect with the community across both platforms.
This also means subscribers can access a Nike-branded club on Strava that will play host to challenges and offer content from Nike’s own coaches and top athletes. In addition to this, subscribers get access to the global community of 750,000 sporting clubs linked to the Strava platform.
A key feature of the challenges hosted by Nike will be the shared goals involved, which means that participants will be able to take inspiration and get tips via the interaction that the expanded community gives them. This will give a big boost to those people who don’t get to train with others in their own geographical area but can benefit from online support.
Nike stated that this partnership helps aid its mission of using online community and connectivity to make sport an everyday feature of people’s lives.
Michael Horvath, the CEO and founder of Strava, said: "By partnering with Nike, we're able to connect two powerful global sport communities on the Strava platform to create meaningful spaces for active people to come together daily."
This partnership represents a new frontier for Nike. Hitherto, its most important collaborations have always been with top athletes. The game-changer that made Nike a leading global brand came in the 1980s with the signing of Michael Jordan, a story recently making it to the silver screen in the film Air.
However, since then there has been a plethora of top sports stars signing up with the firm. Current ambassadors include global stars like Tiger Woods, Cristiano Ronaldo, Rafael Nadal and LeBron James, as well as a number of other NBA and American football stars.
This, however, is something a bit different. It may be that fans would love to shoot baskets like James, drive a golf ball like Tiger, leap and power home a header like Ronaldo, or whip a forehand winner like Nadal. But for all but a tiny elite few, such feats remain an aspiration they will never achieve.
However, the Strava partnership brings things back down to the level of the ordinary member of the public who simply wants to improve their own performance. The targets set may not involve major trophies, gold medals, or making personal fortunes, but will see personal goals chased and achieved.
It is a reminder that while most cannot hope to match the feats of the greatest sports stars, it is still a more than worthy goal to achieve new personal bests, while sharing in a community that both supports achievement and celebrates excellence.
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]]>That is why Nike has launched its first non-fungible token (NFT) collection on its own platform .Swoosh.
For those who don’t know, an NFT is a unique digital item, which cannot be copied or replaced.
When people buy an NFT, the ownership is recorded in the blockchain, allowing them to sell or trade their token.
Ron Faris, general manager of Nike Virtual Studios, said about the new project: “We are exploring new ways to tell stories and create relationships while removing the barriers and limitations of physical product.”
Nike’s virtual sneak is called Our Force 1 (OF1), which harks back to its infamous Air Force 1 design.
The NFTs went on sale on May 10th on .Swoosh, with buyers being able to choose from two different designs, the ‘Classic Remix’ and the ‘New Wave’.
Each NFT will have a 3D file, with Nike planning to add more utility in future weeks. This is thought to include “exclusive physical products or experiences”.
Buyers will be able to open their box at a later date to uncover the utility.
Each box was priced at $19.82 (£15.67), which represents the year Nike released its Air Force 1 sneaker.
Since its launch, more than $1 million worth of NFT virtual sneakers have been sold on .Swoosh.
This is in spite of technical issues and a challenging market.
If talk of Nike’s Our Force 1 NFT has reminded you of the classic design that was released in 1982, why not buy rare Air Force 1 ‘07 LV8 worldwide trainers?
]]>This can be especially annoying to deal with if you spend a lot of money purchasing a limited edition or speciality shoe, only to find out later down the line that it is simply a copycat of the real deal.
It has become increasingly difficult to spot fact from fake and many people will now intentionally scam others out of their money by selling them duplicates of highly sought-after sneakers, leaving the buyer out of pocket with a pair of shoes that are likely poor quality as well as being a knockoff.
To ensure you don’t fall victim to the scam, there are many different ways you can try to identify fake sneakers which you can use before purchasing a pair of shoes to help protect yourself.
The best way to make sure the shoes you are purchasing are real is to always buy from a reputable and verified seller. Many resellers hold themselves to exceptional standards and will happily verify and confirm the authenticity of shoes.
It is best to avoid purchasing shoes from random individuals online who have no way to prove the authenticity of the sneaker, especially if they are selling an extremely limited or exclusive style of shoe.
If faced with a pair of shoes in person, there are many checks you can do to ensure the shoes you are purchasing are authentic.
One way is to closely examine the packaging. Most premium sneakers come in specific, high-quality packaging that has several key details and identifiers.
By closely examining the box and other packaging you may be able to pick up on small details which may be wrong, such as mismatched serial or product codes, misspelt words or inaccurate descriptions.
You should also pay very close attention to the details of the shoe itself. Examine the branding and logos as well as the stitching and even the inside and sole of the shoe.
An authentic shoe will be well made, neat and have little to no imperfections, whereas a duplicate or fake may look messy or unfinished, with glue marks or uneven stitching as well as wrong logos.
If buying from a legitimate seller, they should have no issues with you doing your checks on the shoe before buying them.
If the seller seems irritated or annoyed that you are examining the sneakers before purchasing, it may be a sign that they aren’t selling the real deal and don’t want you to look too closely before handing over the cash.
Another way to determine if they are real or not is to compare the serial number or product code.
You can find legitimate, authentic codes for shoes online and compare this to the code on the shoe you are buying. This is a sure way to ensure that the shoes are real as any fakes will not have a verified serial number.
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]]>First, make sure you know what material your sneakers are made from. Different fabrics require different care and maintenance and therefore the steps you take to keep them clean will vary.
For example, leather or suede materials will need more gentle cleaning and may require treatments to maintain the quality of the fabric over other materials such as canvas or mesh.
Before cleaning your sneakers, ensure you remove all excess dirt and debris. You can use a soft bristle brush or even a toothbrush for this step. This will help to loosen any dirt or mud and gently remove it without damaging the shoe and make cleaning it much quicker and easier.
Hand washing your shoes is the best way to ensure they stay in great shape and do not become damaged.
While you can wash shoes in the washing machine, it is not recommended as it can cause them to become misshapen, can tear or break the shoe and may even cause the shoe to fall apart.
Handwashing ensures you have complete control over which parts of the shoe get wet, come into contact with cleaning solutions as well as being much safer and gentler.
Using a mild detergent, such as a clothing detergent, and a soft brush or sponge, you can gently scrub any stains out of the show. You should avoid fully submerging the shoe in water for extended periods of time and instead work on one area at a time.
Once you have removed all stains, rinse your sneakers with clean water and ensure all the soaps and detergents used have been thoroughly rinsed out and no residue is left behind.
If you have particularly stubborn stains, using a mixture of bicarbonate of soda and water and a soft-bristled toothbrush to work the stain out is a great solution which prevents you from having to use strong cleaning products such as bleach on the shoe which can cause damage.
Oil-based stains may be more difficult to remove, however, there are many different cleaners on the market which can help to remove tough oil stains without damaging the integrity of the shoe as well.
Washing up liquid may be a good option for oil stains as it works as a degreaser, however, you should only use a small amount as it can be damaging to some materials.
When drying your sneakers, put newspapers or paper towels inside the shoe to pad it out. Not only does this help it to dry faster, but it also stops the shoe from becoming misshapen as it dries.
You should avoid using heat when drying your shoes and instead let them air dry. Heat may warm the fabric and change the way it fits your foot by either stretching or shrinking the shoe.
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BILL, or the Bot Imitated Longevity Lab, as it is officially known, has been developed to help Nike fans extend the life of their shoes by polishing them and using recycled patches to repair any damage.
Noah Murphy Reinhertz, sustainability lead at Nike NXT, said: “The thing is, maintaining old product is deeply personal. People will go to great lengths to care for their favourite shoes.”
The robot-augmented system works by making a 3D digital model of the sneaker, as this provides detail about what areas need thorough cleaning or fixing.
Then it uses water-based cleaning products and rotating brushes to scrub the upper, sidewalls and outsole.
Customers can also choose patches that will be used to repair areas where there are signs of wear and tear. Liners and laces made from recycled materials will also be replaced.
BILL was first launched in London’s NikeTown, with the cleaning service, which takes just 45 minutes, being totally free to sneaker owners.
It is currently available for its most popular trainers - AirForce 1s, Air Jordan 1s, Space Hippie 01s, and Nike Dunks.
BILL is part of Nike’s ambition to create a “circular future where products are made with the intention of being reused, remade and discovered as something new”.
However, one new model Nike fans will want to get their hands on are the Nike Air Force 1 Mid x Off-White ‘Pine Green’, which is being released for AF-1’s 40th anniversary.
Fans looking for more limited edition Nike trainers can find a huge selection online, which they are sure to wear so much they will require cleaning from BILL in no time.
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