Nike Is Releasing a New Air Max Sneaker Inspired by a Classic Video Game
Nike’s futuristic .Swoosh (aka DotSwoosh) division has undergone some major changes since it was introduced in November 2022, shifting from a focus on NFTs and digital sneakers to now releasing internet and video game-inspired physical products. From the “TINAJ” Air Force 1s to the “Low Poly” Air Max 1, .Swoosh’s newest direction has been met with a positive reception and based on early reactions to its latest sneaker, Nike could have another hit in its hands.
Newly surfaced product photos show the latest .Swoosh Nike Air Max 1 sneaker. Reportedly nicknamed “Big Head Origins,” the polygonal reworking of Nike’s classic 1987 running sneaker takes direct inspiration from an equally influential video game: Nintendo’s “Donkey Kong” franchise.
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Clad in an extra-hairy Light Chocolate brown suede with Hemp accents throughout, the sneaker’s Swoosh and plastic eyelet are colored in red and given a jagged polygonal treatment reminiscent of what was used on the “Low Poly” release. The tongue’s woven Nike label appears distorted as if it was produced using ancient video game graphics, while the heel features a circular rubber Nike Air badge in yellow.
And while the upcoming release does not appear to be an official collaboration with Nintendo, Nike wasn’t shy about showcasing the sneaker’s inspiration. If the message wasn’t clear from the outside, the insole of the shoe features a pixelated background with graphics of “DS” coins — for “DotSwoosh” instead of “Donkey Kong” — and the banana peel found throughout the franchise’s numerous titles.
Although a release date has not been confirmed, the .Swoosh Nike Air Max 1 “Big Head Origins” sneaker is expected to launch during spring 2025 for a retail price of $150. Given that Nike’s Air Max Day celebration takes place in March, it’s not a stretch to anticipate the pair could arrive sometime next month. The sneaker has a SKU of HV5776-200 and its full colorway is Light Chocolate/University Red/Hemp/Sanddrift.
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