Nike’s focal analysis of the women’s category has shifted the brand’s design direction towards a past-meets-future vibe. As seen in the current line-up of lifestyle footwear, it’s clear that the typical Nike girl adheres to a specific style and price range, so it makes perfect sense that the category expands accordingly.
Falling within the ranks of the V2K Run, Phoenix Waffle, and Tech Hera, the upcoming AL8 lands in that intersection of history and modernization with its remastered aesthetic. The AL8 clearly champions that tech-runner vibe, but with a slimmed down upper and a refined midsole that works in tandem with the sleek and slender build. The upper is ample with suede, with random overlays achieving that 2000s-running visibility that has run rampant in the casual sneaker department.
A wide assortment of colorways are coming this Spring/Summer, including this “Sanddrift” version. MSRP is likely in the $100-120 range given the pricing of the aforementioned models — a fair number given the lack of apparent tech or cushioning platforms.