Nike and Swarovski have joined forces yet again! And this time, it is for another classic sneaker model- the uber-chic Air Force 1s. The shoes are revealed exclusively for women and join the previous collaborative pieces presented by the marquees (namely the sparkling Air Max 97 and PE of Naomi Osaka’s signature on-court shoe).
As part of a long-term investigation into Material innovation, the sneakers feature a shroud outfitted with specially placed crystals that are retroreflective. Much like the road reflectors that we find, the crystals on the shoes will reflect light directly towards the source, while ensuring maximum comfort and functionality.
The crystals shrouds can further be taken off individually with a special co-branded screwdriver, thanks to its highly modular design. Arriving in triple black and triple white, the shoes further represent ‘126 years of crystal innovation, literal road reflector technology, and a totally new reflectivity concept combined with one of, if not the most iconic sneaker in Nike’s catalog’, as Highsnobiety says.
Commenting on it, Marie Crow, senior creative director of women’s lifestyle footwear, in a statement, said, “Material innovation can transcend gender, and we’ve seen our partnerships with Swarovski be widely coveted. We find when we start with women’s insights, we get to unique design outcomes. In this case, we are solving for an edge of city expression through reflective embellishment, which feels bold and protective and can be styled up and down through customization. Anyone is welcome to adopt them into their AF1 rotation, to style in their own way.”
Reflecting similarly, Swarovski interim CEO Michele Molon in a conversation with Highsnobiety, added, “Swarovski and Nike have been launching covetable and innovative products together for five years now. We are great collaborators, bringing the best out of one another and proving how collaboration between creative partners elevates both to new heights.”
Priced at $450 each, the Swarovski x Nike Air Force 1’s will release (via SNKRS) on December 2, 2021.
[Via: Hypebae]
