On Your Marks: The Nike Air Rift is Back

There’s no denying that the Nike Air Rift is one of the most polarising silhouettes in sneakers, but it also happens to be one of the comfiest, too. Originally released in 1996, the shoe was inspired by Kenyan barefoot runners, named after the Great Rift Valley in Kenya, and initially launched in a colourway that referenced the Kenyan flag. Having worked its way up to cult status since, the Air Rift is now set to drop in three new colourways. Here’s what you need to know...

Known for its iconic split-toe look, the Air Rift design was a first for Nike, but the idea dates back much further. Tabi toes have been a firm feature in the footwear scene since Martin Margiela launched his Tabi Shoe in 1989, but even then the split-toe style can be traced all the way back to 15th Century Japan. By the mid 20th Century, it was commonplace for rubber soles to be put on Tabi-style shoes, therefore providing the designs with enough structure to become functional and agile footwear options. It was this technology that helped to set the pace for the Air Rift – the sole on the shoe features a unique traction pattern that is suited to all types of terrain.

Designed by keen ultra-distance runner Kip Buck, the Air Rift’s design came from Nike’s never-ending mission of creating the ultimate running shoe. The soft, sandal-like uppers help to allow for unrestricted motion, and the iconic clove hoof-like design allows runners to step with a more natural range of motion. But the style didn’t just appeal to those who are looking to get the miles in. Throughout the 90s and early 2000s, the Nike Air Rift found favour with a number of celebrity fans including Halle Berry, who had her own Air Rift collaboration as part of Nike’s Artist Series.

The new pairs are set to come in a number of colourways. There’s a stealthy “Triple Black” pair to kick things off with, as well as “Black/White” mesh version that comes decorated with embroidered orange Swooshes. Finally, there’s also a neoprene “White/Green” number on the way, which sees shades of lime peek out from under a white upper, and silver Swooshes decorate the forefoot.

If these are on your radar then be sure to hit the release reminders above, and keep it locked for more Air Rift colourways as they come in.

Looking for a new runner but not sure split toes are your thing? Check out these Nike Flyknit options.