The Nike x Star Wars Colabs We Need to See
The galaxy has been bombarded with an influx of sneakers since Disney started manning the cockpit, with The Rise of Skywalker collection the latest smorgasbord to send sneaker geeks into hyperspace.
With that in mind, discerning heads, just like many Star Wars fans themselves, will agree that the iconic franchise hasn’t always (*cough* prequels *cough*).
Considering the number of licensing contracts being dished out, we’re surprised the Star Wars juggernaut hasn’t yet entered the Swoosh’s atmosphere, but that’s not stopping us from channelling our dark side to further explore the idea.
These ain’t Jedi mind tricks – these are the x Star Wars collaborations you probably won’t be seeing anytime soon.
Air Force 1 ‘AT-AT’
Basking in the trail-sneaker renaissance, this concept takes the all-terrain approach to the next level.
Inspired by one of the Empire’s most recognisable military marvels - the All Terrain Armored Transport – the Air Force 1 ‘AT-AT’ aka AF-1-AT-AT comes fully equipped with a four-legged walker in the sole, designed to rip (and occasionally trip) on any topography you throw at it.
Wrapped in a heavily armoured gun-metal grey upper, the rugged sneaker will likely repel any potential physical interaction with the object of the wearer’s affection.
Air Max 90 ‘X-Wing’
Perfect for dogfighting your way through a sweaty comic book convention, the Air Max 90 ‘X-Wing’ vibes off the coolest starfighter in the rebel fleet.
Coming through with a well-worn finish, the sneaker is armed with plenty of visible ammunition. Booster attachments improve forward thrust with each stride, while side panel ‘laser’ cannons fire a cooling liquid mist to bring some breeze below the knees.
We suspect this would’ve been Luke Skywalker’s go-to on his days off.
Air Jordan C-3PO
These are the droids you’re looking for. C-3PO may be fluent in over six million languages, but it doesn’t take a bona fide Star Wars fiend to understand the inspiration behind this regal pair.
Wrapped in 24k gold foil, these Air Jordan 3s offer the most imperial exterior of the collection. Silver on the laces, eyelets, and ‘Cement’ print offer up an opulent contrast, as circuitry ‘see-thru PO’ details on the ankle collar are a subtle nod to the worrisome protocol droid.
Air Max 95 ‘Vader’
*Heavy breathing*. Did we save the best for last? The Air Max 95 ‘Vader’ could be the most villainous sneaker in the entire cosmos.
Dressed in the quintessential Dark Side scheme of black and red, it’s a stunning homage to the iconic Sith Lord. Shiny patent leather combines with nubuck and mesh, as a speckled midsole and bright red Air bubbles shine as bright as Anakin’s famed lightsabre. It may not come with an armoured life support system, but a computerised wraparound device does provide in-built climate control for your foot. Meanwhile, a cape attachment on the heel works to create cushioned landing with each stride.
If you find your lack of steez disturbing, the Air Max 95 ‘Vader’ could be the solution.