Puerto Rican Culture Inspires the Nike Air Force 1 ‘Boricua’

Puerto Rican Day-themed sneakers have become something of a tradition for Nike after releasing about a half-dozen limited editions in tribute to the parade held in June 12 each year. This year maintains that practice with another Air Force 1 – something of a favourite for this collection – dubbed ‘Boricua’ after the people of Puerto Rico and the colours of San Juan.

These kaleidoscopic kicks are perhaps the most detailed Puerto Rican inspired Nikes yet, as the mismatched pair is not only full of colour, but texture and hidden features. The seemingly randomised perforations on the toe box and side panels may look randomised, but they’re actually arranged in various dominoes combinations. This obscurity is hinted at via the right foot’s dubrae, which displays a double two tile.

The theme is also made obvious on the insoles, with various references to the game and other Puerto Rican festivities, such as La Sanse, plus the Spanish phrase ‘mi gente’, which means ‘my people’. Elsewhere, these AF-1s are finished with premium suede and unbuckle panels, leather lining and stamped heel tabs, with the right foot reading ‘Puerto Rico’.

Keep an eye out for official confirmation of these Nike Air Force 1s to come soon as the Puerto Rican Day Parade is only weeks away.