Nike CryptoKicks NFT sneakers are for the metaverse fashion conscious

If you’re a sneakerhead in your real life, then you’ve got be ready for the coolest pair of sneakers in your virtual life too. That luxury comes courtesy of the Nike CryptoKicks for the metaverse worlds. And yes, don’t forget to lace them up while strolling in VR!

Nike had earlier filed seven metaverse-related trademark applications, clearly suggesting their affinity for the trending pop culture of virtual assets. In line with this future vision, the American multinational acquired RTFKT Studios, a digital fashion and 3D creation studio in December 2021. Now the first nectar of their creation is out for all to see. Yes, you know where this going, right?

Designer: RTFKT Studios

Nike and RTFKT’s first digital sneakers have been released and they call them the Nike CryptoKicks. It’s a design based on the Nike Dunk Genesis sneaker, and this is Nike’s foray into the world of NFTs, and eventually the metaverse. RTFKT labels this creation as the “Future of Sneakers” and we truly second that statement. Nike did hint at their interest in crafting digital sneakers and wearables back in November 2021, so after all this reveal isn’t a major surprise for keen followers.

 

People who own the RTFKT’s mysterious MNLTH digital box NFT which was airdropped for free to ones who have the Clone-X. There was some mystery around as to what the MNLTH cube actually holds, and now after almost three months we know one of its hidden gifts. The digital wearables can be shown off in the metaverse worlds as their look can be toggled via the collectible Skin Vials for different styles. For starters, the EVO X collection will kick off with eight different skins which can be beefed up with drip upgrades and special powers.

This virtual dunk silhouette gets an uber-futuristic bump-up with the metallic parts, a noticeably modified sole unit, and the paneling to match the swapping around of the screens for customization. CryptoKicks sneaker is going to be one of the many future releases in the pipeline and we can expect the skins library to grow exponentially too.

As Nike said at the launch of the CryptoKicks, “Nike is focused on potential ways to use blockchain technology to serve our consumers in the athletic footwear, apparel and equipment space. The MNLTH is just the start to a future of serving athletes in this space.”

The post Nike CryptoKicks NFT sneakers are for the metaverse fashion conscious first appeared on Yanko Design.

Converse x A-Cold-Wall sneaker collab delivers future-ready silhouette that’s very little All Star

Chuck Taylor silhouette has already met with the Nike FlyEase treatment for top-notch comfort, style, and smooth put on and pull off. Taking things from the good old All Star to a forward progressing collaboration; Converse has struck a partnership with A-Cold-Wall and brought to the fore an innovative new Aeon Active CX that’s dropping on April 6, 2022 for $160.

The avant-garde design of the Aeon Active CX, from the house of Converse, is the result of a collaborative effort that reflects the industrial design aesthetic of A-Cold-Wall and the charismatic, creative DNA of Converse. The future-ready silhouette is designed for utmost comfort, sustainability, and of course, has that futuristic feel to it.

Designer: Converse

The responsive and performance-focused idea behind the shoe is well exhibited in form, through the use of cutting-edge material, stretch constriction, and ease of putting the shoes on and off. The Aeon Flux CX presents itself in a lace-less form factor; but what’s more striking to the eye is its sea-green crater-esque midsole (black in other bold colorway), which elevates the concept of a ‘shoe from today for today’ to the ‘shoe of today ready for tomorrow.’

The midsole in discussion is eye-grabbing for a reason. A green reason which is beyond its translucent hue. The midsole is made of recycled materials, while the spring in the stride is assured by cushioned CX foam underfoot. The stretchy mesh-combination upper is about comfort and style. However, if you’d believe; it is also about smooth on and off foot proposition; made even less cumbersome by the exaggerated heel kick and pull tabs.

Like you’d expect from Converse, the Aeon Active CX is tailored for long day’s comfort. The limited-edition footwear is presented in two color themes: the dark, strong color combination and the very subtle, light to the eye option. The latter features graphic running across the lateral, which is likely to kick the aspirations and on-foot requirements of the generation-Z.

 

The post Converse x A-Cold-Wall sneaker collab delivers future-ready silhouette that’s very little All Star first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nike Pegasus Turbo Next Nature uses at least 50 percent recycled material

Nike Peg Turbo Next Nature

Nike’s Move to Zero mission is right on track. The top sports brand has several efforts to make it happen, and we believe more will be introduced.

When we say more, that means more environment-friendly products will be announced in the coming months and years. The latest is the Nike Pegasus Turbo Next Nature, a new pair of sneakers that use at least 50% of recycled material by weight. The pair also uses 100% recycled Flyknit yarns in the upper. The latter offers a more secure and comfortable fit for the wearer.

Designer: Nike

Nike Peg Turbo Next Nature Launch

The Nike Pegasus Turbo Next Nature is more than just a “greener” option. The trainer is a versatile pair for the runners, offering absolute comfort with more foam underfoot. Furthermore, every pair is made more responsibly since the ZoomX foam is 55% recycled. In addition, this Nike foam boasts an 85% energy return, so this one makes top-notch running performance possible.

This pair follows the Air Zoom AlphaFly Next Nature. The company learned from its construction and release, making the new Peg Turbo Next Nature a better version. Nike has been working on new developments when it comes to performance footwear. What’s different is that the brand doesn’t just work on aesthetics and technology but also thinks about the planet.

Nike Peg Turbo Next Nature Where to Buy

Nike’s early related efforts include the Nike Basketball’s Cosmic Unity and the Air Zoom AlphaFly Next Nature. The Nike Peg Turbo Next Nature is a new iteration of the Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo from a few years ago. That pair employed an aerodynamic shape of the heel and a ZoomX foam in the midsole. This time, the Next Nature series is more eco-efficient as the materials are at least 55% ZoomX foam scrap and 50% recycled material by weight.

The 100% recycled Flyknit makes the pair lightweight and breathable. The yarn used has been dyed with a special solution in a process that saves about 70 liters of water. That is a lot of water already for every kilo of yarn made.

The Nike Running line has been around for something. The Peg Turbo from 2018 was also a follow-up to the Nike Zoom Vaporfly 4%. Every new model is an improvement from the previous pair, so we can expect the Nike Peg Turbo Next Nature’s performance will exceed our expectations.

The innovative technology and ultimate performance can be achieved, but the materials used are better and different now. Recycled materials can possibly deliver the same performance, making the new pairs “greener.” At one point, Nike left out the carbon fiber plate from the midsole but retained the ZoomX foam.Nike Zoom Pegasus Turbo

Nike saw that the Air Zoom AlphaFly Next Nature with its recycled materials could be a success. So it’s making a follow-up in the form of the Nike Pegasus Turbo Next Nature. The new racing shoes combine Nike’s previous achievements in the Flyknit technology and ZoomX foam. However, this time around, the materials are mostly recycled. We also remember the Nike Atsuma with its reduced material waste and inverse design.

The new Nike Peg Turbo Next Nature boasts a similar silhouette to the pair released in 2019. More recycled materials are evident in the Swoosh embroidery. Even the midfoot cable system, the lining, and the laces are recycled.

Nike Peg Turbo Next Nature Price

The Flyknit upper with Flyknit Excess Yarn is now a signature Nike feature. The digitally woven fabric is a product of a closed-loop process. The scrap yarn is then remixed with recycled water bottle chips. The result is a yarn material with 30% excess yarn and 70% post-consumer recycled polyester. It is lightweight and strong, giving ease and comfort to the user. If you are familiar with the Pegasus Turbo Stripe, it’s also applied to the new Nike Peg Turbo Next Nature.

Nike is all about sustainability, and we doubt it will ever revert to its old ways. The Nike Peg Turbo Next Nature is a perfect example of sustainability in shoe design and performance. We believe the future of sports is “green,” thanks to all the sustainable efforts and methods we’ve been learning about.

Nike’s sustainable efforts are aplenty, starting with the apparel and footwear introduced earlier this year. It has taken center stage in 2022 Move to Zero collection. Expect related products and collections will be introduced as Nike commits to becoming more caring and mindful of the planet.

Nike Running Pegasus Turbo Next Nature

The post Nike Pegasus Turbo Next Nature uses at least 50 percent recycled material first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nike sustainable apparel and footwear take center stage in 2022 Move to Zero Collection

Sustainable fashion is more than just a bandwagon or a passing trend. We believe this move is here to stay as there is a need to become more friendly with the environment. It is not just the tech brands and consumer electronics companies that are pushing for sustainabilities, big fashion names and sports brands like Nike have already made the “Move to Zero.”

MOVE TO ZERO is Nike’s official campaign towards zero waste and zero carbon. It may seem impossible to achieve, but Nike knows it is our responsibility to protect the future of sports enthusiasts and Mother Earth. We have learned about the Nike playground constructed with 20,000 upcycled sneakers in recent months. We also remember the Nike Atsuma made from offcuts and the eco-friendly Nike SB Dunk High Cork.

Designer: Nike

Nike Collection Spring Summer 2022 Move to Zero

More products from Nike will prove that sustainability in fashion and the sneaker business is possible with new seasonal collections. These new footwear and apparel mix lines are a perfect mix of style, function, and sustainable materials. So as a new season begins, Nike is ready with collections that take advantage of sustainable methods and materials.

Nike is committed to achieving a future with less waste and reduced gas emissions. The target is zero waste—no waste should go to landfill by 2025. The mission seems ambitious, but it is good to have such marks. The new capsules are a clear move in the right direction for going green.

Nike’s impact on fashion and sports goes beyond what is sold in the market. These sustainable innovations will make the planet healthier and teach people to be more conscious about the environment and their choices. The new Nike capsules include popular silhouettes such as the Air Max Moti, Tech Pack, Nike Pro, Nike Sun Club, and some of the classics reimagined.

Nike Classics

Nike Classics Move to Zero Sustainable Fashion

Nike, the top sports brand in the world, has shared the latest environment-friendly seasonal collections. Let’s start with the Nike Classics as this collection is released in time for the company’s 50th anniversary. Three classics now have sustainable versions: the Nike Dunk Low Next Nature, Nike Blazer Mid ’77 Next Nature, and the Nike Waffle One Crater Next Nature. The latter actually boasts 25% recycled synthetic leather on some details and 100% recycled polyester twill upper. Even the Crater Foram midsole, heel clip, and midsole are made of at least 10% recycled materials as described.

Nike has maintained the iconic styles but with a twist. There is less impact on the environment as some 20% of the materials are utilized. According to Nike, this set honors the brand’s “roots while looking to its future.” The designers decided to make use of Nike Grind rubber and recycled synthetic leather and recycled polyester.

Nike Sun Club

Move to Zero Sustainability Nike Sun Club

Nike Sun Club Move to Zero Sustainable Fashion

The combination of colors alone shows us this collection is not just about sustainability. The sneakers are fun and ready for Summer. Like the Nike Classics, the new pairs are made of recycled laces, recycled synthetic suede, and recycled textile uppers. About 20 percent of content is recycled by weight. This particular series features different classic silhouettes such as the Nike Court Vision Lo NN, Nike Blazer Low ’77 NN, Nike Air Force 1 LV8 NN, and the Nike Air Max Pre-Day.

Nike Air Max

Nike Air Max Move to Zero

Nike Air Max Dawn

The Nike Air Max is well-loved by sneakerheads for several reasons. The series is famous for its Air Max and Nike Air technology, and it’s getting modern versions in the form of the Nike Air Max Motif, Nike Air Max Dawn, and the Nike Air Max 2021. In time for spring/summer 2022, the Nike Air Max 90, Nike Air Max 95, and Nike Air Max 97 are re-stocked but now with uppers made of recycled content.

Nike Pro

Nike Pro Shorts Move to Zero

This collection of apparel takes advantage of sustainable and lower-impact materials. The use of such materials is crucial, especially for popular products like the Nike Pro shorts and tights. Nike has been using materials of at least 50% recycled polyester for most Nike Pro products.

Nike Sportswear

Nike Sportswear Nike Move to Zero

Nike Tech Pack Move to Zero

The more eco-conscious Nike Sportswear includes small parts made with Nike Grind materials. You will notice them in the logos, drawcords, and zipper pulls. The new Nike Windrunner jacket is also made of recycled materials such as more Nike Grind chips, virgin TPU, and even recycled Nike footwear Airbag TPU. The 2022 Nike Sportswear Capsule collection features clothes and apparel from previous waste like recycled TPU and more recycled nylon mixed with organic cotton fibers.

Nike Tech Pack

Nike Jacket Move to Zero

Nike Tech Pack is another result of sustainable innovation. Recycled materials such as recycled nylon and recycled content are combined with organic cotton fibers. This year’s Tech Pack includes a new parka for women, an insulated vest for men, and new woven pants. The pair of pants come in washed color due to less use of chemicals.

Nike Pro Move to Zero

The post Nike sustainable apparel and footwear take center stage in 2022 Move to Zero Collection first appeared on Yanko Design.

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Concept can instantly change lens color

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Design

Wearing sunglasses serves many purposes. Others may just be getting stylish pairs for fashion fix but there are more people who wear them for protection.

The Nike View is a pair of concept cycling glasses that come with a color-changing lens. A different lens color helps the wearer to see clearly depending on the weather condition and environment. Cyclists will benefit from this innovation but we also think those going on long drives will also benefit from this pair.

Designer: Allen Liu

Concept NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Design

The idea of NIKE VIEW is that you will no longer need to swap lenses or change glasses. Sunglasses don’t just protect the eyes. They also help reduce eye strain and enhance contrast so it is important the lens has the correct color or for some people, grade. Sunglasses that change the color of the lens can be very helpful. One doesn’t need to bring two pairs every time he’s on the road. This is important so you can enjoy your ride and not worry even when the weather gets bitter. Too sunny? No problem. The lens will change to yellow to reduce to increase contrast and reduce glare.

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Sample

A gray lens may be perfect for checking out nature. When it’s too bright like maybe when you’re out in the snow or a pretty field, the orange lens will be helpful. When you’re walking along the beach or ocean, the purple lens will be enough.

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Concept Design

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Orange

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Purple

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Concept Black Gray

The Nike View looks like most sports sunglasses you can see in the market. In its regular form, it’s set in black. The only color you see is the neon green Swoosh with a plus sign and the ‘VIEW’ text on the temples. On one side, there is an area that we are assuming be charged magnetically because it needs power. The lens is the one doing the “magic” of the Nike View.

Concept NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Concept

Wearing sunglasses can also protect you from road debris or bugs. The weather changes often so you don’t know when it’s going to rain or will be sunny or windy. It’s important your sunglasses have the correct contrast and glare. While many pairs offer interchangeable lenses, the NIKE VIEW makes things easier for you. It can switch lens colors at once so you don’t have to purchase another pair or change the lens. Talk about convenience.

1

The designer’s image renders and animation look great. They look like legit photos and something that Nike will release. We believe this is something Nike or any other brand should consider working on. Adaptive lenses or photochromic lenses are now available but they have limited capabilities. They take longer to adjust to brightness or don’t darken well indoors. A pair of sunglasses with a color-changing lens like the Nike View may be more convenient to use as it instantaneously changes the lens color.

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Concept Sketch

NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Sketches

The post NIKE VIEW Cycling Glasses Concept can instantly change lens color first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nike Bubble Max concept sneakers will make you feel like you’re walking on the clouds

Nike Bubble Max Sneakers

If you can design a car, you can definitely design footwear. There is no limit to what a creative mind can do and Volvo automotive designer Julien Fesquet is proving once again he can create something fresh, innovative, and functional.

This isn’t the first time the designer has presented a shoe design. He shared a slew of interesting pairs a few years ago. There’s also the MICHELIN Sneakers posted prior to the NIKE Bubble MAX. The latter is the latest shoe design the top sports shoe brand may consider bringing into production.

Designer: Julien Fesquet

NIKE Bubble MAX Design

From the Nike Air Max series, sneakerheads may someday start their Nike Bubble Max collection. Of course, it still is a concept but like most unique designs from the brand, this will sell. But then again, the same pair will be hated by people with trypophobia (fear of clusters of bumps or holes).

Never mind those who have an aversion to bubbles. The Nike Bubble Max is designed with a different sole we’re assuming this works similarly to the decades-old Air Max technology. The material of the bubbly sole could also be the same with some flexible rubber with translucent Air units.

NIKE Bubble MAX Sneakers

NIKE Bubble MAX Images

The closest Nike Air model we remember is the Nike Air VaporMax. That one featured a lightweight air cushion platform, integrated TPU lugs, and integrated rubber pods. Like the AirVaporMax, the Nike Bubble Max’s bubble outsole could be there to provide enhanced traction and durability.

NIKE Bubble MAX Design Concept

NIKE Bubble MAX Concept

The image renders show an upper with a dotted pattern that looks and we’re guessing feels like scales. It could be something similar to what was used on the Nike Zoom Kobe 6 “Grinch” Protro. The large Swoosh with Bubble Max written on the side appears to be painted. The tongue area simply shows a split in the middle where the sock liner is exposed. The liner extends above the ankle, giving a high-top illusion. When it comes to real function, walking on the Nike Bubble Max may feel like you’re walking on the clouds.

NIKE Bubble MAX Where to Buy

A red square Nike tag catches attention against a neutral color combination of gray and black. The heel part is where you see a hangtag. Some text branding can be seen on select bubbles. The outsole is separated in the middle as the design shows us these “bubbles” appear to have formed naturally. There are no shoelaces so we’re assuming the pair is a slip-on.

The Nike Bubble Max looks promising if the bubble outsole will work. It should be thick and durable so those can carry the weight even of the heaviest wearers. The pair can be another unique addition to a sneakerhead’s extensive collection if and when the design gets picked up by Nike.

NIKE Bubble MAX Price

NIKE Bubble MAX Details

NIKE Bubble MAX Concept Sneakers

NIKE Bubble MAX Sketch

The post Nike Bubble Max concept sneakers will make you feel like you’re walking on the clouds first appeared on Yanko Design.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase uses Nike’s hands-free shoe technology

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase Black

The FlyEase has always been known as a Nike technology. The top sports brand has released the Nike GO FlyEase in different colorways and we can expect more pairs will be introduced. For the first time ever, Chuck Taylor is using the same technology designed to be easy to wear and take off.

Chuck Taylor is joining the Jordan Brand and Nike in the roster of brands that are coming up with FlyEase versions of popular shoe models. This proves that progress and innovation are possible even in shoe design. Sneakerheads are probably getting excited at the idea of acquiring but for those people who are main targets of the FlyEase tech, this pair from Chuck Taylor is a new option for them to really use.

Designer: Converse

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase White Release

The easy on-off entry is the greatest advantage of the new Chuck Taylor All-Star FlyEase. It’s one accessible pair for those who really need it. The hands-free version of the Chuck Taylor All Star now joins the Air Jordan 1 Hi FlyEase, Nike GO FlyEase, and the Nike Air Max 90 FlyEase and we believe it won’t be the last.

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star is one of the many must-have classics sneakerheads or non-sneakerheads should buy. But let’s admit it, tying those shoelaces can be time-consuming. For people with different abilities, it can be a pain. That is why the FlyEase technology is invented—to make wearing and removing the shoe easier for everyone.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase

Hands-free wearing can be done now with your Chucks. The ease the innovation offers is added to the classic look and feel of the Chuck Taylor All Star with its star-stuck ankle patch and canvas upper. The heel flexes feature a FlyEase cage that collapses when you step in. The canvas collar’s material is stretchable for added accessibility. To provide a more secure fit in the absence of shoelaces, the tongue is padded. The heel tab and the heel overlay have also been modified so it is easier to slip into the shoe.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase Design

Nike’s FlyEase technology isn’t just for the kids and those lazy people who hate shoelaces. It’s also for the athletes who need efficiency, speed, and convenience. It’s also for the disabled or differently-abled people as it is easier to wear and take off.

Just like those from Nike and Jordan Brand, the FlyEase shoes from Chuck Taylor are better-designed, smarter, and more adaptive. The new pair maintains the silhouette’s visual heritage. You won’t think it has something more special because the profile is almost the same with the addition of color on the sole and of course, the  FlyEase cage. Inside, there is the adjusted sock liner and insole with CX foam. These improved elements allow for more comfortable wear.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase Step In

Converse Global VP of Design & Innovation Phil Russo has this to say about the release: “By blending Nike FlyEase with the Converse CX comfort platform, we’ve crafted a progressive design, one that marries a suite of comfort-innovation technology with the added benefit of ease of entry, making the Chuck Taylor All Star more accessible to Converse fans of different abilities.”

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase White Orange Sole

The Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase has yet to launch in key markets beginning February 24. The pair will be out in South Korea and Greater China first. If you live in North America and Western Europe, you can start checking converse.com on March 17 to purchase. Available in either black or white version.

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase Details

Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase Black Design

Black Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase Details

The post Converse Chuck Taylor All Star CX FlyEase uses Nike’s hands-free shoe technology first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nike Air Force 1 with removable Swoosh carabiner is a fascinating twist to the iconic sneaker

Nike Air Force 1 has been through numerous iterations in the last four decades. In 2022, as the sneaker which was first introduced in 1982 marks its 40th anniversary, we are bound to witness some innovative variants show up. Case in point the Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 by Virgil Abloh on auction via Sotheby’s. In the coming weeks, another interesting Air Force 1 Low is expected to launch with a removable Swoosh-shaped carabiner fastened over the rubber Swoosh on its lateral.

Air Force 1 was the first basketball shoe to debut the iconic Nike Air technology, which forever altered the on-court “sneaker culture.” Over the years, the AF1 has evolved from the basketball sneaker image into a fashion staple; it is modernized for street style, and now it wants to tinker into the outdoor trend with a pair featuring a detachable carabiner. The first images of the two expected colorways of the sneaker have appeared online, and the sultry images already have the sneakerhead in me enticed.

Designer: Nike

The interesting catch here, for an outdoorsy in you, is that the carabiner is of no more use than being used as a keychain hanging from a loop of your jeans. The metal EDC on the Swoosh is removable, but the labeling on it suggests, it can only bear a kg of weight (roughly 2 pounds). So, if you were thinking of strapping out a carabiner from your shoe and begin your excursion on a vertical rock, turn back! Now that the purpose of this metal accessory is out of the way, let’s get back to the sneaker.

The carabiner in the shape of Swoosh is affixed over the leather logo on the outside of the shoe. The Swoosh is smaller in size than you’d usually see on an AF1. To hold it in place, the Swoosh carabiner is attached seamlessly using a colored Bungee cord, while the tongue features a stash pocket. The new Air Force 1 is likely to arrive in black and white color variants with blue and matte red Swoosh carabiners and accents respectively. Nike is yet to provide an official release date for these sneakers, but from the word around the internet, we are expecting them to retail for about $130 a pair.

The post Nike Air Force 1 with removable Swoosh carabiner is a fascinating twist to the iconic sneaker first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nike launched a bejeweled pair of Women’s Air Force 1 sneakers studded with 228 Swarovski crystals

You might love them or hate them, but sure as hell won’t be able to ignore them.

Designed for a subset of people who feel like regular sneakers aren’t enough for their feet, Nike unveiled the Women’s Air Force 1 sneakers with custom retroreflective Swarovski crystals studded across the surface of the shoes. The functionality is twofold – aside from being a pair of sneakers so bizarrely unique that people will definitely ask you where you got them, the reflective crystals on the shoes actually make them easy to spot in low-light conditions. The retroreflective nature of the crystals allows them to reflect beams of light back to their source, making them visible to people driving vehicles while you’re jogging at dawn.

The leather sneaker comes layered with a 4-part shroud that houses as many as 228 individual retroreflective crystals. Contrary to popular belief, the bling isn’t just there to make a luxury fashion statement. Nike claims the choice of studding the sneakers with over 200 crystals was created out of inspiration taken from road reflectors. To that very end, the shoes are, quite literally, eye-catching. They come in all-white or all-black (the black ones are showcased here), and the studded crystals come to life the minute a light source shines on them.

The shoes are up for sale on the Nike website, although for a hefty sum of $450 a pair. I honestly doubted whether there would even be enough demand for these odd-looking sneakers (coupled with that price point), but as of writing this piece, most of their sizes are sold out as Nike is desperately trying to restock units on their website. If you do like the shoes but are somehow aversed to the idea of constantly having to walk around with crystals around your feet, the shoes ship with a special screwdriver that lets you take the shrouds off too, turning them into a classic pair of Air Force 1s.

Designer: Nike

The post Nike launched a bejeweled pair of Women’s Air Force 1 sneakers studded with 228 Swarovski crystals first appeared on Yanko Design.

Nike x Swarovski Air Force Ones: Just Don’t Do It

Because questionable product collaborations come in all shapes and sizes, Nike and Swarovski have teamed up to produce these $450 crystal-accented Air Force Ones. Available in all black and all-white colorways, the sneakers are covered with Swarovski studded webbed panels, which are removable with an included Nike branded flathead screwdriver. Me? I just want the screwdriver.

At first glance, I really thought they were Christmas lights and not crystals, which made a lot more sense to me. Make them light up red and green and add some candy cane striped laces and you’ve got the perfect pair of sneakers to compliment an ugly Christmas sweater this holiday season.

Like my favorite substitute teacher in high school, Mrs. Gitland used to say, “Different strokes for different folks.” And maybe gaudy Swarovski studded Nikes are your stroke. I’m not here to judge you for your idea of design, I’m just here to wonder what your living room must look like.

[via Highsnobiety]