Nike Shrink Wraps the Air Force 1 Experimental "Racer Pink"
An attention-demanding style from the Swoosh’s N. 354 sub-label.
Nike‘s N. 354 sub-label is all about experimental footwear silhouettes that aim to show the process behind the product, and the latest result of that bricolage-focused design ethos is the Air Force 1 Experimental in “Racer Pink.” Featuring a shrink wrap-like material that covers the entirety of the upper and midsole, the “Racer Pink” was made to look like it had been brought to market before being fully completed.
As mentioned directly above, this pink shrink wrap-like material covers the upper and midsole alike — in some places, it’s even intentionally creased for a wabi-sabi like look, consistent with the imperfect nature of shrink wrapping. Under the wrap sits an upper that looks like it’s made entirely of thick foam with an N. 354 logo scribbled on the Swoosh. There’s also a bright neon “sticker” on the heel that promises a guarantee of quality, much like you’d expect to see on a choice cut from the butcher.
Things are slightly more traditional on and around the lacing system: the exposed foam tongue is done up in gray, and sits under two sets of laces (white and yellow) plus a pink-adorned toggle system. Heel tabs boast a bright yellow shade as well, and insoles take on an extensive text graphic. A finishing touch is provided by classic gum outsoles.
The Nike Air Force 1 Experimental “Racer Pink” will release on Nike SNKRS Japan come February 5, and is priced at ￥15,400 JPY (approximately $148 USD).
Fiending for more Force news? Take a look at Stüssy’s five different hand-dyed colorways, created to represent five of the brand’s “World Tour” cities.
