NIKE, Inc. has vocalized its commitment to the Latino community over the last three years unlike ever before, adding representatives to its board of directors, amongst other initiatives. One such endeavor that’s become a mainstay over the last few years has been full-on collections to coincide with Día de Muertos, an early-November holiday in remembrance of lost loved ones. Previous efforts have included Nike Sportswear classics like the Air Max 1, and 2023’s will be no different.
Most commonly associated with Mexico but also celebrated in other Spanish-speaking countries, the Day of the Dead celebration takes place from November 1st to 2nd. Living family members set up ofrendas for those who’ve transitioned into the afterlife. These shrines typically feature Pan de Muerto, candles, and flowers, but can also include items enjoyed by the lost loved one during life (a specific beverage, music album, article of clothing). Ofrendas can be as ornate or simple as one likes (or can afford), and the next festive Nike Air Max 1 takes note of the former.
The upcoming take on Tinker Hatfield’s iconic design features a medley of eye-catching colors throughout its upper and sole unit. Vibrant pink and yellow joins forces with green and orange hues to inject life into the shoes’ sand-colored base. Familiar panels are given untraditional texture to depict everything from papel picado decorations (look at the tip of the toe box) to pan dulce (concha profile swooshes). The result is a fun Air Max offering that speaks to the vibrancy of Latin American culture. The tried-and-proven tooling also indulges in animated colors, but forgoes any reference to the sneaker’s theme. Tongue labels on the right shoe and sockliners, however, nod to the collection’s familial focus via “Familia” branding.
Enjoy official photos of the thematic pair ahead, and anticipate a Nike SNKRS launch in late October or early November.
For more sneaker news, check out the latest Air Jordan release dates.
Nike Air Max 1 “Familia”
Release Date: 2023
Color: N/AMens: N/A
Style Code: N/A
Photos via Nike