The Nike ISPA Link & ISPA Link Axis Are Made to Be Taken Apart

Nike's ISPA subdivision is always out there to push the boundaries of sneaker design. From the Air VaporMax to the Road Warrior, the line has always embraced innovation to the fullest, and this has certainly not changed for the upcoming Nike ISPA Link and Nike ISPA Link Axis. Keeping inline with the "Improvise, Scavenge, Protect, Adapt" ethos, these silhouettes were made to be taken apart.

A concept that's inspired by the circular design principle of disassembly, both the Link and the Link Axis boast a modular construction that allows them to be dismantled and recycled conveniently and quickly. Placing sustainability at its core, the Beaverton brand have completely removed the need for glue here, making these easy to reuse and repurpose.

The Link is made up of a series of interlocking elements and features an outsole that secures to the upper so no adhesives are required here, while the Link Axis boasts a 100% recycled polyester upper that has been specially engineered to fit over a recycled TPU unit. While these designs may look pretty futuristic, they're actually influenced by some noughties cult classics including 2003's Presto Clip and 2005's Zvezdochka which continues to be one of the most unique Swoosh sneakers ever made.

"These shoes are completely informed by the method of make — it really is a case of form following function," explained Darryl Matthews, Nike's VP of Catalyst Footwear Product Design. "Our hope is that these ideas and aesthetics become normalized, accelerating our ability to imagine how shoes will continue to evolve in the future."

In terms of release dates, the Nike ISPA Link is set to land sometime in May, while the Nike ISPA Link Axis will drop sometime in 2023. Let us know what you think of these brand new silhouettes, and in related news, a sustainable Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 could be on the way!