Nike Brings Back the Original Moon Shoe in "Soft Pearl"
The 1971 waffle-soled runner returns for Spring 2026 with subtle structural updates.
Name: Nike Moon Shoe “Soft Pearl”
Colorway: Soft Pearl/Black
SKU: II0407-001
MSRP: $105 USD
Release Date: Spring 2026
Nike is digging deep into its archive to revive the foundational Nike Moon Shoe in a clean “Soft Pearl” colorway.
Originally created in 1971 by co-founder Bill Bowerman, the Moon Shoe was born from performance experimentation and famously utilized a waffle iron to create its traction-focused outsole. Long treated as a rare collector’s piece and high-fashion experiment, the running silhouette earned its moniker from early wear testers who compared its distinct footprint to lunar tracks. Following recent collaborations that reintroduced the model to a new audience, the brand is preparing a wider rollout of this clean white and black iteration.
The upcoming version arrives alongside the “Summit White” iteration, and stays true to the model’s heritage while introducing subtle structural updates for a modern audience. The two-tone design now features slightly bulkier paneling, a larger black Swoosh, and a modified heel flap equipped with a fold-over collar. Despite these refinements, the core elements remain completely untouched. The retro runner retains its lightweight build, minimal cushioning, and the signature waffle sole that helped shape Nike’s early performance identity on the track.
