1982 was a big year for fashion and footwear, especially for Nike as they introduced the iconic Air Force 1. The debut completely revolutionized footwear as it was the first basketball shoe to incorporate Nike Air technology. Created by designer Bruce Killgore, the sneaker was a true test as it was the first time basketball sneakers would incorporate this technology. He took inspiration from the Nike Tailwind and signature elements from a hiking boot to make the iconic design. Initially introduced as a high top, the sneaker was tested by renowned designer Tinker Hatfield. This was actually Hatfield’s introduction to footwear- he would then later have his impact on Nike’s history but before Hatfield’s sneakers, Killgore’s Air Force 1 was the shoe to talk about. Once the Air Force 1 hit the shelves they instantly soared as their responsive and cushioned midsole elevated standard sneakers. 

Overtime we would see new variations and colorways produced but it wasn’t until 2002 that the shoe would see its revival and boost in popularity. The world of hip-hop brought the silhouette to the surface as many would champion the design in music videos and casually upon the street. Rapper and artist, Nelly, would then release his single ‘Air Force Ones’ and the sneaker would see a surge in pop culture. Since then, the model would continue to rise as Nike would introduce elevated variants and exclusive collaborations. Brands including Off-White, Supreme, and CLOT would debut their own take of the AF1, allowing the sneaker to stay prominent within history. 

As the Air Force 1’s 44th anniversary draws near, Nike has prepared a line-up of releases that include new fabrications and technologies. The latest rendition of the sneaker focuses on Nike’s sustainability initiative, ‘Move to Zero.’ Since 2019, the footwear powerhouse has been drawing emphasis on a zero carbon and zero waste movement. They’ve developed many goals within the movement including utilizing 100% renewable energy in 2025 and reducing carbon emissions by 30% in 2030. 

They’ve taken many steps to achieve this goal and the main way they implemented this is through their fabrication and innovative technology. The introduction of Flyknit was imperative to Nike as it transformed classic styles into a more breathable and lightweight design. Its sock-like fit is engineered with strands of yarn that is woven into one piece. Because of its precision engineering, Nike produces 60% less waste than traditional upper manufacturing. Working alongside the lower energy production, each sneaker that includes Flyknit technology utilizes 6-7 recycled water bottles. Crater Foam is another material presented by Nike which can be seen throughout the soles. Its construction contains 11% Nike Grind rubber and foam, a recycled material that is now utilized in comparison to conventional rubber. Lastly, Nike’s signature Air technology was given its latest rendition in 2020 as the soles are now composed of 90% recycled waste. They were able  to configure this recycled process and turn it into the Air technology we know and love today. In the latest version of the Air Force 1, all of these elements are combined for the ultimate sneaker that keeps sustainability at the fore front. 

The latest colorways of the Nike Air Force 1 Crater FlyKnit is set to release May 13th and shines a light on signature hues; ‘Wolf Grey’ and ‘Chambray Blue.’ The classic silhouette is designed with a FlyKnit upper which is complemented by a Foam Crater sole. Cushioning is elevated with Air technology while the inner midsole champions the ‘Move to Zero’ insignia in a Volt colorway. The beloved silhouette is sought-after by many sneaker enthusiast and the latest designs will be just as popular as previous pairs. 

Grab a more detailed look at the Nike Air Force 1 Crater FlyKnit above. Ready to secure your pair? Follow the instructions below to enter the draw and to shop all of our other current releases. 

Feature Release - Thursday, May 13th

• Visit the “Releases” page on our site.
• Click your size and enter your information.
• You will be notified the night prior if your entry is granted.

Our Feature Release Draw ends Wednesday, 5/12, at 4 p.m. PST. All winners will receive notice the night before the official launch date if they have won.