In the early 00s, Vince Carter was among the most popular and exciting players in the NBA. Known for his unique high-flying dunks, Carter would go on to win the Slam Dunk Contest at the NBA All-Star festivities in 2000. While many associate Carter with Nike, Vinsanity was laced up in AND1 before signing with the Swoosh. During the late 90s/early 00s, AND1 was one of the most popular brands. Mainly known for their trash-talking graphic tees, they launched a signature footwear line with Stephon Marbury and other models, including the now classic AND1 Tai Chi.
The AND1 Tai Chi stands out with its split-color, yin and yang design, usually featuring a leather and suede combo, with leather on the lateral side and nubuck on the medial. While various colorways came out, and the shoe has been re-released numerous times over the past 20+ years, the original White Red pair, famously seen on the feet of Vince Carter, is the most coveted. Previously released in 2018 as a ComplexCon exclusive, the AND1 Tai Chi Dunk Contest is back, this time in a more easily attainable fashion. Staying true to the OG, this pair sports a cut-and-sew, white-based leather upper accented by red nubuck. Split-colored laces cover the mesh tongue with a leather tongue patch at the top. More red is seen on the collar and liner. The phylon EVA midsole features an injection molded bottom loaded shank, which sits atop a full-length rubber outsole with herringbone traction.
The AND1 Tai Chi Dunk Contest was released on September 1, 2024, and is currently available on AND1.com. Retailing for $130, the sneaker comes in men's sizing. For updates on the latest from adidas and more in the sneaker and streetwear world, download the Sole Retriever mobile app.
AND1 Tai Chi Dunk Contest
Images via AND1
In this article
Steve Jaconetta is the Head of Content based out of Connecticut. An encyclopedia for sneaker releases, he's covered the industry for over fifteen years. His stops have included Sole Collector, Complex, and StockX, to name a few. He considers the Air Jordan 11 Concord the greatest sneaker of all time and has a strong affection for 80s pop culture. Email: steve@soleretriever.com
