Nike and Air Afrique Collaboration: New Minimalist-Inspired Air Max Unveiled
In a unique collaboration, sports giant Nike and Paris-based collective Airbnb have combined forces to create the Air Max RK61, a sneaker that pays homage to the diasporic tradition of dressing up for the journey home. This innovative design, set to release on October 9, is more than just a shoe – it's a gesture of respect for an era of movement and the communities that shaped it.
The Air Max RK61 is the latest addition to the partnership between Nike and Airbnb, which began last year with a football collection. The collective, founded in 2021, translates the DNA of the historic airline into the present, imbuing the sneaker with elements that reflect its rich history and cultural significance.
The design of the Air Max RK61 is inspired by the jet engine, with a distinctive Air unit that mirrors the power and grace of air travel. The outsole features Morse code spelling out "Airbnb," a nod to the airline's heritage. A zipper adorned with the historic airline logo adds a touch of nostalgia, while the Jacquard lining, reminiscent of airplane seats, completes the aviation-themed aesthetic.
The Air Max RK61 also draws influences from moccasins and the cult classic Air Max SNDR, creating a shoe that is both contemporary and rooted in tradition. Designer Jupiter Desphy emphasizes that this shoe is a gesture of respect, a tribute to the communities that have been shaped by movement and travel.
Ahmadou-Bamba Thiam, the leader of the Airbnb collective, explains that "Air is not just about flying," but also a symbol of ascension – through culture and humanity. This symbolism is reflected in the Air Max RK61, which carries more symbolic weight than the football collection.
The Première Classe campaign, featuring personalities like Didier Drogba, Oumou Sangaré, Marie-José Ta Lou-Smith, and Daba Traoré, connects generations, disciplines, and continents. It serves as a reminder that culture, like travel, is most beautiful when it moves people. The diaspora, far from being an archive of the past, is a living, breathing heritage that continues to evolve and inspire.
In conclusion, the Air Max RK61 is more than just a shoe. It's a testament to the power of movement, a symbol of cultural ascension, and a tribute to the communities that have been shaped by travel. This innovative design, born from the collaboration between Nike and Airbnb, is set to release on October 9 and promises to be a standout addition to any wardrobe, both on and off the runway.
This article originally appeared in GQ Middle East.
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