As retro as it should be: Nike Air Span II SE Pure Platinum
For the true retro runner purist, the Nike Air Span II SE Pure Platinum is a sight for sore eyes. This shoe takes us back to the 80s when this model – and the OG Air Span – was released to Nike’s heads.
Predating some of the innovations that we commonly associate with Nike’s running catalog, the Air Span II was an underrated cultural item. Even when it first released, this sneaker was the perfect balance of performance, style, and affordability.
Crucially, it also came with all of the trappings of this era’s prevailing design philosophy. Lightweight bases, leather overlays, and a streamlined silhouette seemed to be the order of that day.
And now, in 2018, the classic running shoe comes back in all its glory. In honor of the run of retros that Nike has been on, this latest version is being released as a special edition – or SE.
The mesh base comes fitted with overlays of suede and a healthy helping of Pure Platinum. Along with this relatively muted visual, Nike threw on a Black Mini Swoosh. It isn’t anything new but this small addition has a big background.
The last time we saw a Mini Swoosh on the Air Span II was on the hype-dripped Friends and Family release from Patta’s Nike collab. This drop isn’t coming with quite the same height of anticipation.
However, it’s still going to be hotly pursued by the retro heads and old-school Nike fans. The Air Span II will even hold a special place of nostalgia for many in the sneaker community.
One of the underrated aspects of this latest version is its timeless visual appeal. The combination of tonal hues and a classy Mini Swoosh make this a solid option – even if you’re not a huge retro fan!