Key sneaker releases of the week for May 20th – 26th
This week, Nike gives us two classic retros, while Wales Bonner knocks it out of the park again. Plus, three of the most anticipated sneakers of the year are finally releasing.
Nike- Kevin Durant 4 “Weatherman”– May 21st
Nike Basketball sneakers had such a grasp in the sneaker space in the 2010s. Off the court, sneakerheads wore LeBrons and KD’s with the most casual of outfits- as that wing of Nike celebrated it’s brightest moment since the 1990s. As it goes, the performance basketball sneaker is once again becoming a part of the trend cycle, making the return of the fan favorite Weatherman perfect. First released in 2011, the pair features several weather patterns throughout the upper, with matching hits of green, orange, and yellow. The pair is a celebration of Durant’s fascination with weather, and what could have been his career were he not so athletically gifted. The KD 4 Weatherman releases across Nike boutiques on May 21st.
DROPS Link: Retailer Releases
Adidas x Wales Bonner Spring/Summer 2024– May 21st
The partnership between Adidas and Grace Wales Bonner has been one of the most fruitful and beloved collaborations for the three stripes for years now. To celebrate the Spring and Summer season- the British designer celebrates the legacy of East African runners and their influences. The collection is a steep one, as far as sneakers are concerned. It features two pairs of the Adidas SL 72, two pairs of the Samba, two pairs of the Samba Millenium, and matching apparel. The aforementioned Samba Millenium will be making its debut in the line. With its accurate representation of the source material, and it’s already celebrated use of materials, there is no doubt this collection from Wales Bonner will be another hit on our hands. The Adidas and Wales Bonner SS24 collection releases on ADIDAS CONFIRMED on May 21st.
DROPS Link: Retailer Releases
Futura Laboratories x Nike SB Dunk Low – May 22nd
Already being hailed the SB Dunk of the year by many, the Futura x Nike SB Dunk Low is a pair that has been on many sneakerheads ‘must cop list’ since they were first previewed last year. Futura’s unmistakable graffiti style artwork is on full display and is accompanied by his signature on the lateral side heel. Accented by multicolor laces and an iced out translucent blue outsole to match the overall aesthetic of the shoe. Wrapped up in special packaging it’s safe to say this is one of the most eye-catching sneakers we have seen drop this year.
DROPS Link: Retailer Releases
Air Jordan 3 x J Balvin “Rio”– May 22nd
Almost a year after the highly celebrated Medellin colorway of the Jordan 3, the Colombian superstar J Balvin and the Jumpman are releasing a sequel. This Rio pair, which features the same gradient color details as the Medellin, is a tribute to Balvin’s son. Now collaborating on their fourth sneaker in as many years, the partnership is gearing up to release another highly sought after sneaker. The J Balvin 3 Rio releases on SNKRS on May 22nd. Early access and a potential additional launch is also expected via Balvin’s site.
DROPS Link: Retailer Releases
Air Max 180 “Ultramarine”- May 24th
Nike’s latest hit of a program, the cult classics, is bringing back one of the most beloved Air Max shoes of all time. Originally designed by the one and only Tinker Hatfield, and released in 1991, the Ultramarine quickly became one of the most beloved sneakers of runners and nike fans alike. The constant retroes by the swoosh have allowed it to maintain it’s esteem and relevance in the sneaker space. This year’s retro will be Nike’s closest to that original 1991 pair as the brand has reworked the shape of the upper, as well as the visible air max unit. The Air Max 180 Ultramarine releases on SNKRS on May 24th.
DROPS Link: Retailer Releases
Travis Scott x Air Jordan 1 Low OG ‘Elkins’ – May 25th
It can’t be Summer without a Travis Scott release. This Elkins colorway comes in a never before seen color blocking for a travis sneaker. The hits of canary yellow and royal blue are inspired by Travis’ High School alma mater- Lawerence E. Elkins High School. The yellow and blue is complemented by a nice white tumbled leather and is tied all together with a gum bottom. The Travis Scott Elkins Air Jordan 1 Low OG will be released in women’s sizes on the NIKE SNKRS app and select retailers on May 25th.
DROPS Link: Retailer Releases
Air Jordan 12 “Taxi Flip”– May 25th
The Air Jordan 12 needs no real introduction. The sneaker is synonymous with one of the most iconic runs in the history of the NBA. It’s the sneaker that was all over the highlights that have helped cement the legacy and infamy of Michael Jordan. This Taxi Flip colorway is a celebration of that legacy. Without a doubt, one of the most iconic colorways to come out of the sneaker in 1996 was the Taxi colorway. The colorblocking was plain and up to speed with NBA regulations, but its design and material usage made it one of the most exciting sneakers on the court. Jordan Brand has brought us that same iconic style while adding a pop of red to bring it all together. The Taxi Flip Air Jordan 12 releases on SNKRS on May 25th.
DROPS Link: Retailer Releases
