Nike's Retro Knitted Running Shoe Is Elderly Dapper
Knits: They're not just for your sweaters. Nike's LD-1000 sneaker is the epitome of a vintage runner. Add a knitted upper, and an already elderly sneaker gets elevated to extra-elegant heights.
In "Soft Pearl/Black/Fauna Brown," the knitted Nike LD-1000 sneaker features a crochet-style upper and a white-stitched brown leather Swoosh, adding to the fatigued vintage charm of the sneaker. Things stay retro at the bottom with a traction-focused waffle outsole, a look that's synonymous with vintage Nike runners.
First released in 1977, Nike's LD-1000 sneaker was originally designed for long-distance runners, and the Swoosh reintroduced the delightfully dated sneaker as a fashion play in 2024. The OG LD-1000 sneaker was composed of a mostly mesh upper with suede accents throughout.
But the crochet-like knit upper worn by the new LD-1000 sneaker gives the updated sneaker a more mature vibe.
Present day, the archival sneaker, available on the Nike website for $170, currently occupies a whole new lane within the sneaker universe.
That is to say by now, it's currently less known for its on-track pursuits and more so for its vintage fashion prestige. Shout out Stüssy.
Such stylistic reinventions are the story for many revived Nike silhouettes, like the similarly waffled-up Bode Astro Grabber sneaker and the strap-happy Air Trainer Huarache.
And as much as new Nike silhouettes excite the masses, there is just something wholly unbeatable about the Swoosh reaching back into its archive.
Highsnobiety has affiliate marketing partnerships, which means we may receive a commission from your purchase. Want to shop the products our editors actually love? Visit the HS Style Guide for recs on all things fashion, footwear, and beauty.
