Highsnobiety aims to provide our readers with the latest updates in the sneaker world. However, we cannot verify the reliability of any unauthorized leaks or rumors unless this information is provided directly by the brands themselves.
Model: Air Force 1
Release Date: TBD
Buy: Nike SNKRS
Editor’s Notes: When you envision a Nike x Swarovski sneaker, I can’t imagine that this Air Force 1 is what came to mind. Covered in swirling and seemingly removable panels, the design — which hasn’t been confirmed by Nike thus far —renders a white or black AF1 almost entirely unrecognizable.
Though it wasn’t exactly a clever design, Cactus Plant Flea Market‘s Swarovski-studded Nike Dunk made a lot more sense. It was exactly what you thought a real Nike shoe done up with Swarovski appliqué would look like.
Here, not so much.
SWAROVSKI pic.twitter.com/VNO0bBV8oI
— US11 (@US_11) November 12, 2021
— US11 (@US_11) November 12, 2021
It ain’t easy to describe what exactly’s going on here without actually getting hands-on with the shoes but it appears like layers of molded rubber, shaped with intricately spiderwebbed lines, have been fastened across the uppers and midsoles of the classic Nike silhouette.
Those little metal screws can be undone with the Nike screwdriver that the shoes come with, allowing the wearer to remove the panels. That’s good ’cause you can’t get to the laces otherwise.
Since this is a Swarovski affair, loads of little crystal studs are fitted across the shoes at seemingly random points, creating pleasantly weird textural expanses.
— US11 (@US_11) November 12, 2021
SWAROVSKI pic.twitter.com/pOHvxb7K5k
— US11 (@US_11) November 12, 2021
Aside from the potential to trigger someone’s trypophobia, I’m pretty into Swarovski’s stab at the Nike AF1. Anything that diverges from the typical formula of “semi-special colorway” or “same shoe with extra logo” is worth at least a second look and these definitely fit the bill.
Shop our latest product
To stay updated on everything happening in the sneaker world, check out the best sneakers to add to your rotation this week, follow @highsnobietysneakers on Instagram, and sign up to our newsletter for early access to the best drops sent straight to your inbox.
Want to keep browsing? Head to the Highsnobiety Shop for more products that we love.