Nike and HBCU Alumni Team Up for Yardrunners 5.0 Air Force 1 Release

Name: Nike Air Force 1 ‘07 Low “Yardrunners,” Nike Air Force 1 ‘07 Low “VUU”
Colorway: “Sail/Bison-Dragon Red,” “Black/Team Maroon-Metallic Silver”
SKU: HQ7027-100, HQ7026-001
MSRP: $120 USD
Release Date: December 18
Where to Buy: SNKRS, Various Retailers

Nike continues to celebrate the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through its Yardrunners initiative. Launched in 2020, the program honors HBCU heritage and culture by supporting their communities with impactful storytelling, recruitment efforts and purpose-driven products.

For Yardrunners 5.0, Nike collaborates with two influential HBCU alumni, Kahlana Barfield Brown and Dex Robinson, who have created custom Nike Air Force 1 designs inspired by their personal experiences and traditions of their alma maters

Dex Robinson’s design draws on his experiences at Virginia Union University (VUU). The sneaker’s standout pony hair finish symbolizes the strength and elegance of VUU’s Panther mascot. Maroon laces and a steel outline around the Nike Swoosh echo the school’s colors, while personalized heel tabs reading “Dear Union” and “With Love, Dex Rob” offer a heartfelt tribute to the university. The insole features a touching letter from Dex, set against a silhouette of the VUU sign, symbolizing the unity and history of the institution. Interchangeable pins including the VUU logo, Panther mascot and DIALLO feather icon allow for personal customization.

Kahlana Barfield Brown’s “Ice Cream” edition of the Air Force 1 weaves a narrative of unity and pride. A vintage cream leather upper pays homage to the history of HBCUs, which dates back to 1837. The brick-colored sock liner symbolizes the enduring strength and iconic architecture of their campuses. The deep brown tongue, swoosh and outsole represent melanin and the profound connection shared by HBCU students. Crimson red accents honor her alma mater, sorority and late grandmother, infusing the design with deeply personal significance. Completing the look, Kahlana’s signature graces the heel, proudly celebrating her place in this storied legacy.

Both models will be released through select retailers starting December 18 and will also be available to shop via the SNKRS app from December 20.