Nike x NIGO Collaboration Unveiled with Exclusive Air Force III and Apparel Collection

Until last year, the idea of Nike teaming up with the former head of Bape would have seemed too wild to comprehend. But sneakerheads rejoice as the news has finally been confirmed! After months of speculations, Nike has officially announced its first collab with the iconic designer NIGO. Known for shaping contemporary streetwear, Tomoaki Nagao (better known as NIGO) brings his vibrant and eclectic style to Nike with an exclusive Air Force III and apparel collection.

Images of the first wave of products are here, with NIGO's take on the Air Force III at the heart of this collaboration. This revamped silhouette features a premium upper made from a mix of embossed leathers and textiles. The midsole foam and rubber outsole remain identical to the original AF3, while the unique graphics on the tongue and heel pay homage to both the original sneaker and NIGO’s cultural influences. The debut colorway of the Air Force III is inspired by NIGO’s favourite television genres from his earlier life and celebrates the intersection of fashion, culture, art, and music.

Each pair of the Nike x NIGO Air Force III will come in a custom box that not only displays the debut colorway but also hints at future releases. Inside, you'll find a premium patch and pin specific to the debut colorway, adding an element of collectability to the package. Nike have also announced an apparel collection, featuring a varsity jacket and hoodie inspired by Japanese cartoons, bringing a fun twist to your wardrobe.

Timed perfectly with the launch of NIGO’s new single and music video, this release marks the exciting start of an unexpected collaboration decades in the making! “When I decided to work with Nike, I went to the Nike World Headquarters and drew a lot of inspiration from the archives, the lab and the team working there,” says NIGO in the press release.

The Nike x NIGO Air Force III and apparel collection will make its debut on 28th September at Otsumo Plaza in Tokyo, on humanmade.jp, and the "I Know Nigo 2" pop-up in New York. This will be followed by a global launch on October 4th on SNKRS and select retailers. There's also a special version of the collection, named Nike x OGIN, which will be available exclusively in China and Japan.