Nike Air Max 1 x Kasina Channels Korean Traditions Through Colorful Materials

Nike and South Korea’s Kasina are gearing up for a new collaborative release. The duo’s upcoming Nike Air Max 1 x Kasina honors cross-cultural story-telling and heritage, much like how sneaker collecting has become vital to building relationships in streetwear. Also known as the “Made To Be Together” set, the kicks are inspired by the Korean custom of gifting Won-Ang Ducks to newlywed couples. Representing everlasting love, Won-Ang stands for the importance of relationships between all people.

Under the message of “Made To Be Together” brings the importance of all relationships to the shoe. And the sneakers are a reminder of how Nike explores local expressions around the world through style. Won-Ang represents good fortune and promises of life-long love. They’re typically made of carved wood which matches the rounded silhouette of the Air Max 1. The sneaker’s upper features two ducks embracing at the heel as an embroidered symbol and as a printed graphic on the insole.

The color palettes for both pairs of the Nike Air Max 1 x Kasina pay homage to traditional Korean colors and materials, like rich pony hair textures and soft suede, with auspicious undertones. Dark hues of greens and blues on the upper also evoke the natural environments that ducks tend to inhabit. The collaboration between Nike and Kasina also brings a unique Swoosh that’s been customized with a wooden dubrae and Won-Ang keychain.

Take a closer look at the multidimensional construction of the Nike Air Max 1 x Kasina sneakers above, then mark your calendars for its exclusive release on June 4 at Kasina. The Nike Air Max 1 x Kasina sneakers will also be available on June 8 via the SNKRS app and at select global retailers.