This article was published on December 23, 2021 and updated on May 10, 2022
Brand: Stüssy x Nike
Model: Air Force 1 Mid
Release Date: May 13
Buy: Stüssy's online store at 10AM PST, Dover Street market's web store
Editor’s Notes: Back in December 2021, product shots of the upcoming Stüssy x Nike Air Force 1 Mid surfaced online. Fast forward to May 2022, the streetwear brand finally confirms a release date for its coveted sneaker collab, which is expected to be part of Nike’s 40th-anniversary celebrations for the Air Force 1 in 2022.
For Stüssy's spin on Nike's classic Air Force 1 Mid model, the brand subtly updates the shoe while preserving the AF1 Mids' heritage design.
For one of the three colorways, Stüssy once again takes the Fossil Hemp route — like with its Nike Air Force 1 Lows — dressing the upper in a natural-hued woven design.
Then, you've got the collaborative Black Luxe Leather AF1 Mids, channeling Stüssy's 2001 Dunk High sneakers down to its reptilian Swoosh.
Stüssy's logo replaces Nike and its Swoosh branding on the model's signature hook-and-loop straps. Meanwhile, the sneaker's tongue serves up some co-branded action.
A Stüssy x Nike apparel collection joins collaboration's footwear offerings, including a "Peace, Love, Swoosh" tee and regular Stüssy x Nike sweats.
While Air Force 1 Mids have traditionally been the less popular variant of the model, Nike has made a concerted effort to push the Mid-variant of some of its most popular sneakers, including the Air Jordan 1. This, and the increased coverage of Mids by publications such as ours or Instagram mood boards, led to some sneakerheads believing that there was a “Mid-Agenda” online.
That’s clearly not the case. However, it has to be said that the Swoosh has definitely given those variants more attention over the past few seasons, which has included collaborations, like this upcoming Stüssy project, and better general release colorways.
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