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To highlight various HBCU alums, schools, and their culture/impact, Nike created the Yardrunner program in 2020. Since its inception, the program has given opportunities to multiple designers who cut their teeth at HBCUs to help create new sneaker designs and apparel that honor their alma matta. No official word has come from Nike regarding a 2024 collection of footwear. Still, Dex Robinson, an alum of Virginia Union University, founder of the streetwear brand Diallo, and someone who has helped create previous Yardrunners projects, has previewed a new Air Force 1 Low that honors the private HBCU.
Directly inspired by VUU’s Black Panther mascot, the sneaker comes blacked out in faux-fur materials across the upper. In an interview with WWD, Robinson stated that he chose this specific material not only to represent the panther in a literal sense but to exude a “sense of elevation and luxury.” This project is also a first for the school, as VUU’s athletic programs are sponsored by Under Armour, making this, hopefully, the first of many Nike collaborations in the future.
Back to the shoe, the sneaker features VUU’s logo on an added hangtag and metallic silver lining along the edge of the Swoosh on the midfoot. Another nod to the Panthers is added onto the tongue tag, with a pin featuring the school's mascot placed here, and the words "Dear Union" and "With Love, Dex Rob" added to the heel tabs as a heartfelt gift to VUU. Underfoot sits a black AF1 midsole paired with a semi-translucent clear outsole.
The Nike Air Force 1 Low Yardrunner VUU Panthers will release on December 18, 2024, through DTLR and select retailers online and in-store. A Nike SNKRS release will take place on December 21. Available in unisex sizing, the retail price is set at $120. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on release info for this HBCU-inspired sneaker and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Nike Air Force 1 Low Yardrunner VUU Panthers
Images via Nike
Images via DTLR
Images via Nike
Image via dexrob
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
