Original Story (03/20/21): Following a look at the “University Red” Skepta x Nike Air Max Tailwind V back in January, the British grime artist has revealed a second colorway of his next Nike collab. Skepta goes down a cooler route this time around, unveiling a bold scheme of blue, purple, and black, a direct contrast to the pair’s bright red counterpart.
The culmination of various design cues within the swirl of bright blue, black, and subtle purple hues creates an exciting and eclectic pair overall. Choices made in regard to detail, such as placing a digitally printed pattern on the upper’s base and applying bold detailing throughout, can be held accountable for the vibrant and experimental nature of the classic silhouette. A black TPU exoskeleton wraps around the forefoot and midfoot, while texture and dimension are added to the pair with a black rubber toe cap. The entire heel has been covered by an iridescent purple-to-blue gradient material that also subtly appears on the tongue and collar. The pair finish with chrome midfoot Swooshes, a drop-down heel clip into the black EVA foam midsole, as well as heel and forefoot Air Max units.
The Skepta x Nike Air Max Tailwind V collaboration marks the rapper’s fifth official partnership with Nike Sportswear. While the official release information has not been announced, the pair is predicted for a Spring/Summer 2021 release. Stay tuned to Modern Notoriety for more updates.
Skepta x Nike Air Max Tailwind V “Chrome Blue”
Color: Black/Chrome
Style Code: CQ8714-001
Release Date: April 2, 2021 (EU/Asia)
Price: $180 USD
Updates (03/26/21): Nike confirms an April 2nd release in Europe, Asia Pacific, and Greater China.
The blue butterfly wing print across the shoe’s upper serves as a nod to Skepta’s exploration of evolution in both nature and art. “We are all going through metamorphosis, a new stage of life,” Skepta says. “We chose this butterfly print out of about 50 different options because it had to evoke the correct emotion.”
See official campaign images below.
Update (03/26/21): Official images of the Skepta x Nike Air Max Tailwind V “Chrome Blue” are in. The subtle iridescence on the heels and tongues pay homage to the thermal graphic cover art of Skepta’s 2019 album Ignorance Is Bliss. Skepta has also shared a teaser video for the launch.
Retailers across Europe and Asia have the shoe listed as an April 2nd release, accompanied by a track jacket, track pants, and bucket hat. Stay tuned for a US release date confirmation.
— Big Smoke – (@Skepta) March 26, 2021
Additional photos via BAIT Japan:
Update (03/23/21): Grab a closer look at the Skepta x Nike Air Max Tailwind V in blue below, courtesy of samutaro/IG. Similar to previous collabs between the two, the shoes will be accompanied by a matching tracksuit.
A release date is yet to be announced, though a drop on Air Max Day is likely. Coincidentally, Skepta will be live from London as part of the Air Max Day Worldwide festivities. See the Air Max Day Worldwide SNKRS Live programming here.
First look photos:
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