Tune In to Nike's New Pirate Radio-Inspired Air Max 90s

Pirate radio and the Air Max 90 have both long been a part of London culture, so Nike is bringing the two together on a pirate radio-inspired two pack of the classic silhouette. The DIY radio stations served as a in-the-know proving ground for punk rock and grime alike — even frequent Air Max collaborator/influential MC Skepta got his start on pirate radio — so both Air Max 90s feature frequency-inspired details alongside other special embellishments.

First up is a crisp white leather pair, based around a metallic gold jewel Swoosh on its midfoot and a special metallic gold “NIKE AIRMAX” lace deubre. Next, a gray, blue and red pair with an embroidered Swoosh mixes leathers and ripstop materials for a familiar Nike Sportswear look. Though they may be vastly different in color scheme, each pair supplies identical pirate radio graphics: the rubberized heel badge discards its standard Nike Air ornamentation for a radio wave-style hit bordered by small Swoosh and Air details, while icy blue outsoles show a lightning bolt and skull graphic that’s surrounded by concentric circles for another nod to the bootleg broadcasts.

Both of these pirate radio-approved Air Max 90s are set to release via Nike SNKRS GB come January 19, and are priced at £125 GBP (approximately $169 USD).

For more Swoosh news, take a look at the camo-equipped Air Force 1 “Photon Dust.”