The Nike Air Force 1 ‘VUU Panthers’ Is Ready to Pounce

Launched in 2020 to honour and celebrate Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and their alumni, the Yardrunner series continues to expand. The latest addition is an designed by stylist Dex Robinson that pays tribute to his alma mater, Virginia Union University.

Robinson nods to VUU’s official panther mascot throughout his design, dressing the Air Force 1 model in shiny faux black pony hair. Elsewhere, luxurious pebbled leather on the tongues and backtabs provide premium contrast, while an iridescent border around the Swoosh delivers endzone-worthy pizzazz. There’s also plenty of extra fan service for VUU students and alumni, including several metal dubraes and heavy duty black and red rope laces.

Renowned for his work with professional athletes like Tyrod Taylor and Jalen Hurts, Dex Robinson also runs his own luxury streetwear label dubbed Diallo and he's contributed to the Yardrunners program since 2021. Last year, the Yardrunners class included individuals like Robert Covington, a Tennessee State University alumnus and NBA player, and Cameron Lide, founder of @HBCUDrip and a graduate of Winston-Salem State University.

There's no official release details, but expect the Nike Air Force 1 ‘VUU Panthers’ to release locally in Virginia this month. In the meantime, make sure to on the Air Jordan 3 ‘Black Cement’ launch.