Nike Play the Right Cards with the Air Force 1 ‘Spades’
The is a very popular conduit for thematic executions, and occasionally tenuous connections. What playing cards have to do with a retro basketball shoe remains to be philosophically pondered upon (well, there was a notorious NBA All-Star game in Vegas back in 2007), at least until Nike conjure a whimsical product story on the product page of this upcoming colourway.
Online commentary has decreed this AF-1 be called the ‘Spades’, evident in its obvious playing card motifs. The tidy black, red and gold palette has the presentation looking more Casino and less Fear and Loathing. Take a closer look at those darker panels: they’re decorated with an intricate, almost paisley-like pattern, which recalls the sort of embellishment seen on the back of the cards as the dealer flicks out another losing hand at the high-stakes table.
Elsewhere, red lining and outsoles add a bright pop, as does the big gold Swoosh that perhaps represents the big pot (possibly filled with Ws) that everyone aspires to win. Some matching embroidered K and Q – representing the King and Queen cards, if it wasn’t already clear – enhance the aesthetic, but the clearest nod back to the ‘Spades’ nickname is the top-ranking suit sitting proud on the tongue label.
Call your local sneaker dealer’s bluff to see when these AF-1s are available.