Nike announces Air Force 1 collaboration with NIGO and j-hope

Nike has announced a new Air Force 1 ’01 collaboration featuring Japanese designer NIGO and BTS member j-hope. The project is part of the Air Force 1 World Tour and blends 1990s Tokyo street culture with j-hope’s colorful “Hobicore” aesthetic.

The sneaker utilizes a 2001 silhouette with a narrower toe box and more athletic fit than the original 1982 model. The design features glossy Burnt Sunrise and Metallic Gold leather, accented by Chlorine Blue, Taupe, Arctic Punch, and Sail. Personal touches include squirrel graphics on the heel and sockliner, a symbol closely associated with j-hope.

The release is expected to bridge the gap between fashion enthusiasts and the global K-pop fandom, drawing on the creative history between NIGO and the musician.