Nike's Air Force 1 "Skate Shoes" Look Extremely Clean. But Shred-Ready?
Remember those rumors about Nike dropping a new Air Force 1 Low "skate shoe?" Well, it's real — and the first official looks at the sneaker are finally here.
Nike's Air Force 1 Low "SK8" is said to be the brand's own skate-ready take on the classic Swoosh sneaker. Early whispers painted a picture of a Nike SB-level Air Force 1 including padded moments and thick skate-esque shoelaces.
However, these first looks at the Air Force 1 "SK8" don't look super skate-y at all. Honestly, like the early mockups, the IRL Nike shoes look like normal Forces.
Nike's Air Force 1 "SK8" sneaker gets the standard AF1 cushioning throughout, like the customarily stacked Air soles and standard ankle padding. No real chunky or plush detailing like the brand's other skate shoes.
But that's not to say the Forces aren't super clean — they are. The Nike Air Force 1 SK8 comes wrapped in incredibly smooth suede and matte leather, resulting in this satisfying blend of textures across the upper.
As promised, the Nike Air Force 1 "SK8" sneakers arrive in a stunning grey/blue iteration known as "Psychic Blue." The shoe also comes in black/white. And not yet pictured is the model's rumored "Stadium Green" colorway, which is also expected to drop this year.
There is one small skate-like detail to these Nike Air Force 1s. The shoes have gum rubber soles, which could be good for gripping the boards (if skaters dare to test them out in the next session).
Moreover, Nike SB is also anticipated to drop an Air Force 1 collaboration. But the mystery remains as to whether we're getting two skate-worthy Air Force 1s or just one.
At the same time, the new Air Force 1 SK8 poses an even bigger question: to skate or not to skate? Expect Nike to reveal more details as we get closer to the drop, which is still slated for the summer.
