Nike's Iconic Air Force 1 Sneakers Get a Croc Makeover for Spring
Nike is raising the bar for premium Air Force 1 sneakers with its new $600, made-in-Italy styles featuring croc print and patent leather. But this isn't the only luxurious twist on the classic Air Force 1 set to hit shelves this spring. The Air Force 1 Low is getting a white croc skin makeover, accented with metallic silver and an icy blue-tinted midsole. The entire upper is given a croc-embossed texture on white leather, with silver coating the Swoosh and heel tab. The translucent rubber outsole reveals a net graphic, nodding to the Air Force 1's basketball roots.
Despite CEO Elliott Hill's plan to scale back staple model production, the Air Force 1 remains a key player in Nike's retro business. This month, a pastel Easter colorway, reminiscent of 2000s styles, and a Kobe Bryant Protro version, inspired by the late basketball legend's friendship with Pau Gasol, are also on the horizon.
Introduced in 1982 as a performance basketball shoe, the Air Force 1 has become one of Nike's most iconic sneakers. Although sales reports for specific models are not disclosed, the Air Force 1 consistently topped NPD Group's top-selling sneaker rankings until 2021. Despite its seemingly luxe materials, this new Air Force 1 isn't a special edition and will quietly launch on Nike's Snkrs app and select retailers on March 20, retailing for $125. The style code is IR1981-100, and the full colorway is White/Blue Tint/Pure Platinum/Chrome.
