The Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 is back
In yet another drop, Virgil Abloh puts together the Off-White x Nike Air Force 1. We’re just not sure how the man does everything he does. DJ, designer, artistic director at Louis Vuitton. He’s been all over the place.
Judging by this latest release, It seems his Nike work hasn’t taken a backseat. This time, Abloh sets his sights on the Air Force 1. We see more of his deconstructionist motif. The upper brings together an intriguing combination of materials. The majority of the base is in a rip-stop construction. Overlaying that is a healthy helping of suede.
As usual, we see the flipped inside-out visuals. Notes such as the exposed lacing on the Swoosh jump out immediately. For a small pop of additional color, a Red tag hangs on the quarter panel branding.
Finally, there are the quoted “AIR” scripts on the midsole. This is perhaps the most indicative design note. If it’s an Off-White design, you better believe it’ll have those Helvetica prints.
Smaller details such as flecked laces add some complexity. Among other things, Abloh is a fan of adding visual depth wherever possible.
2018 has been the year of a few notable trends. One of those is the break down of sneaker designs. Releases such as this Air Force 1 glamorize the inner workings of shoes. The most immediate result has been a change in what people buy. We’ve also seen a more subtle shift. With more materials and tech being exposed, it brings design choices into focus.
Why was a certain midsole segmented for cushion? Why mesh and not a rip-stop layer? At the very least, deconstructionists like Abloh have inspired these questions.
This rendition of the Air Force 1 will be releasing in both Black and Volt. Check them both out when they drop on December 19th.
