Nike’s Infamous All-Black Air Force 1 Low Is Getting Even Tougher Thanks to This Material Change
The all-black Nike Air Force 1 Low is regarded by many as a sneaker for unsavory types, but it nonetheless carries on with those who disregard the reputation or lean into it. Whether you intend to wear the AF1 for nefarious or innocuous activities, a material change for the infamous shoe will make it a whole lot tougher.
The Nike Air Force 1 Low “Carbon Fiber” sees its namesake material take over the upper while maintaining the all-black look. This makeover is straightforward, as the woven fabric forms the entirety of the upper except for the tongue, which now appears in nylon rather than leather. The sole unit then remains unchanged, while the usual silver-tone lace dubrae also returns.
Although it came much later than the Air Force 1s reign on the hardwood, carbon fiber has now been a feature of many Nike basketball sneakers for some time. The Air Jordan 11 made history as the first basketball sneaker to use carbon fiber in 1995, and that same year also saw it included on the Zoom Flight 95, a shoe you may know best for its midsole’s “bug eyes” and which has also influenced Drake’s Nike Nocta line.
On the Air Force 1 Low today, carbon fiber may not offer much more in the way of performance — but it could very well end up being more durable than the usual leather.
The Nike Air Force 1 Low “Carbon Fiber” will release February 5 through Nike’s website and select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $120, which is only $5 more than a normal pair of AF1 Lows.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.