Original Story (07/28/20): COMME des GARÇONS and Nike have a history of divisive collaborations.

CdG x Nike teamups tend to seriously modify the models they utilize, be it through significantly swapping materials, overcutting patterns, or adding massive CdG branding. They also tend to be pricey: their recent Air Max 95 came in at an eye-watering $350 MSRP. It seems fitting, then, that such a polarizing partnership would descend on one of the Swoosh’s most polarizing models of all time, the Air Carnivore.

Originally released in 1993, the Carnivore was touted as one of the most technical shoes ever created at the time, and for good reason: The shoe features an “anti-inversion ankle strap,” a neoprene sleeve bootie, a durable rubber outsole, a nubuck exoskeleton lockdown system, and a giant strap in lieu of a lacing system. The silhouette is massive, visible from a mile away, and came in zebra print; however, the model has rightfully earned its share of die-hards over the years. With only one notable retro in 2010, it’s about time the Carnivore fans got some fresh meat.

Presented in CdG’s “METAL OUTLAW” SS21 runway show, their take on the model comes in their signature monochrome style (one white colorway, one black) and yields to the silhouette’s inherent eye-catching properties. Though COMME des GARÇONS Homme Plus branding does appear on the shoe’s heel, there’s little else in the way of logotype across the model. The Carnivore’s signature design remains recreated to a seemingly perfect degree, with the model’s gladiator-style ankle stabilization strap standing out even more than usual when accented against skin or sock.

While the entire CdG SS21 collection won’t likely hit stockists until early next year, it’s almost certain we’ll see more info about the COMME des GARÇONS x Nike Air Carnivore long before its retail debut. In the meantime, take a look at photos of the shoes down below and keep it locked to Modern Notoriety for updates.

In other CdG x Nike news, the pair are teaming up with Japanese tennis superstar Naomi Osaka on a Blazer.

COMME des GARÇONS x Nike Air Carnivore
Release Date: May 1, 2021
Price: $330 USD

Update (04/28/21): The COMME des GARÇONS x Nike Air Carnivore is set to release on May 1st via Dover Street Market New York, Los Angeles, and London, and their respective E-SHOPs. The shoe will also be available via CDG New York.

Update (08/03/20): COMME des GARÇONS has shared an official look at their upcoming Nike Air Carnivore collab. Both colorways feature reflective strap overlays and are slated to arrive April 2021.

First Look images: