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The late 2010s “hypebeast” era of sneakers was defined by multiple collaborations, though the partnership with Virgil Abloh’s Off-White and Nike is the clear-cut leader here. The frequency of Off-White x Nike projects has slowed significantly, with 2024 featuring zero releases from the duo. However, Virgil Abloh's estate will continue its partnership with Nike by releasing a new Air Force 1 Low colorway.
Pictured below is a sample of the Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 Low Sesame, which was previewed alongside a ton of Off-White x Nike and Louis Vuitton x Nike Air Force 1 designs at the Virgil Abloh: The Code c/o Architecture exhibit in Miami during Art Basel 2022. Sole Retriever attended this exhibit, and at the time, it was unknown whether or not this particular colorway of the Off-White x Nike AF1 was releasing.
The design falls in line with previous AF1s by Virgil Abloh as signature touches like the exposed foam sockliner and tongue lining, crinkle metallic silver Swoosh, overstitching on the Swoosh, and, of course, the infamous hang tag remain. We also see the extra paneling applied to the heel tab. As for the color palette, the sneaker is coated in tonal sesame shades, accented by silver on the Swoosh.
One interesting thing to note is that the retail pair features zero references to Off-White. Instead, instances where you'd traditionally find Off-White logos or text are either removed or swapped out for Virgil Abloh. It's safe to assume that the Off-White x Nike partnership is either over or is currently undergoing negotiations. Abloh's estate obviously is still in good standing with The Swoosh, otherwise his name wouldn't be connected to the design.
The Virgil Aboh x Nike Air Force 1 Low Sesame was originally rumored to be a Qatar exclusive in 2024, and later it was supposed to drop Fall 2025. However, the pair is now rumored to release in May 2026 following the successful launch of the V.A.A. x Air Jordan 1 High. Retail is set at $150. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Images via Nike
Images via Stadium Goods
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. When not writing for Sole Retriever, I enjoy watching films and discovering music. Follow me on Letterboxd @nickvlah For tips, reviews, or any shoes in a size 13, email nick@soleretriever.com
