Nike Brings Back the Air Kukini "Water"

Taking the wavy look to the next level.

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For 2022, Nike looked to the year 2000 for its latest lifestyle retro. Revisiting the Air Kukini, Nike has tapped into the trending Y2K style with a gem from that era. Now, one of its original colorways, “Water,” makes its return.

Beyond its retro aesthetics, the Air Kukini also aligns with the slip-on trend. Utilizing a neoprene laceless upper, the “Water” colorway begins with a bright blue that imitates the reflection found on water with intertwining light throughout. This pairs with the silhouette’s signature TPU cage which arrives here in a transparent look, effectively enhancing the theme while sticking to the traditional form of the Air Kukini. Black accents the look at the toe, tongue and heel counter in a soft nubuck. The Air infused sole unit combines with the TPU cage and is dressed in white at the midsole and black at the visible Air unit and rubber outsole, completing this faithful recreation.

The Swoosh has yet to share a release date for the Air Kukini “Water.” Keep an eye out for it to hit shelves in the coming weeks via Nike and select retailers.

Elsewhere in the world of footwear, the Nike Zoom MMW 5 Clog is releasing in a “Volt/Black” look.

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Logan Fairbrother Associate Editor

Logan Fairbrother is a writer who spent four years at Hypebeast, where he led the footwear vertical and spearheaded the weekly “Best Footwear Drops” franchise. Based in Portland, OR, his work centered on industry analysis and product storytelling, extending into fashion and gaming, with a focus on how products are positioned and resonate within culture.

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