Opening Day is here, meaning the Major League Baseball season is back in action for the next seven months. Fernando Tatis Jr., the San Diego Padres star player, is stepping into the 2024 MLB season with a heartwarming nod to the late Padres owner, Peter Seidler. Teaming up with Nick Drbal of XAMPLE and Surgeon, Tatis has embarked on a season-long journey to don over 50 custom cleats, with each pair telling a story or paying respect. Previously, Tatis sported a custom pair celebrating the Korea Series.
Kicking off Opening Day is the Air Jordan 1 Mid R.I.P. Peter, a special pair designed to honor Seidler, who passed away in November 2023. This cleat stands out with its meticulous craftsmanship, featuring engraved leather adorned with Seidler's imagery, symbolizing his indelible impact on Tatis' life. Additionally, the cleat bears the quote "I BELIEVE IN HIM," a testament to Seidler's unwavering faith in Tatis, etched into the leather, further cementing the deep connection between the player and the late owner.
Drawing inspiration from San Diego's picturesque landscape, the cleats are fashioned from veg-tan leather, chosen for their quality and the ability to age beautifully over time. The leather is expertly laser-engraved with a mosaic that reflects the coastal vibes of San Diego, seamlessly marrying elements of the city's natural beauty with the spirit of its beloved baseball team.
Tatis will be taking the field against the Giants at home, sporting the cleats in this Opening Day matchup. Check down below for images of the custom cleats, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app for updates on the latest happenings in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Fernando Tatis Jr.'s Air Jordan 1 Mid R.I.P. Peter PE
Images via XAMPLE & Nick Drbal
