Nike is Bringing Back the Air Max Dolce in Full Force After a CDG Collab

When COMME des GARÇONS goes crate digging at Nike, you know they’ll find some cult classics. The Japanese fashion label has quite the history of finding obscure models and bringing them back to the forefront. Just look at what they were able to do to the Air Max Sunder, which has enjoyed a solid retro run after an initial CDG project in 2022. They also kicked off the return of the Air Max TL 2.5, and will once again be bringing back a model lost to time with the Air Max Dolce. Then, history will repeat itself once more with Nike dropping the Air Max Dolce in GR colorways after the CDG collab hits shelves.

For the uninitiated, here’s a quick rundown on the Air Max Dolce. It was originally released in 2002, a period when Nike was beginning to experiment with the Air Max line. The sneaker itself is clearly inspired by formalwear and dress shoes, specifically loafers, as it forgoes laces and features a wedge heel design that houses a large Air unit. Across the forefoot and toe is a lightweight carbon rubber web, while the rest of the upper is made with molded Phylon. As for the name “Dolce,” it’s Italian for “sweet.”

The last few years in sneakers have seen the pendulum swing back towards formalwear-inspired designs. We can thank New Balance and the 1906L model for popularizing this push. Since the Boston-based brand dropped the model in September 2024, we’ve seen every player in the industry launch their own version of a sneaker loafer. For Nike, there have been a few examples, including the Air Max Phenomena and the Air Max RK61 in collaboration with Air Afrique.

Nike plans to drop four different colorways of the sneaker, including the original Black Sport Red rendition. First will be Metallic Silver Black and Light Magenta Black in Summer 2026, with the two pairs also restocking alongside two new renditions in Fall 2026. The new pairs for the latter half of the year include the OG Black Sport Red and an Old Royal Black.

The Nike Air Max Dolce will be released Summer and Fall 2026 through Nike and select retailers online and in-store. Available in women’s sizing, the retail price is set at $170. Check below for images of an original sample of the Air Max Dolce from 2002, and download the Sole Retriever mobile app for updates on the latest releases, restocks, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.

Nicholas Vlahos

Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy attending concerts and catching the latest movies. Email: nick@soleretriever.com