Nike Air Force 1 Mid x Comme Des Garçons

This smooth, black Nike Air Force 1 Mid x Comme Des Garçons has off-kilter design details that give it an avant garde look. Its sole unit is entirely black, with ringed formations in the forefoot and heel of the outsole for excellent grip alongside Air and foam cushioning in the midsole. These last elements ensure softness underfoot, while Air lettering embossed on the lateral heel shows off the presence of this bouncy padding.

Although the recognisable features of the AF1 Mid appear on the upper, with all the traditional leather panels and overlays in their familiar positions, some aspects have been altered to bring this sneaker its own unique look and feel. No perforations can be seen in the toe box, and the all-black sections of the upper have enlarged portions stretching beyond the dual and single lines of stitching that delineate their usual borders. These all finish in irregular wavy edges that deconstruct the appearance of the outer.

The mid-top collar, which is also black, is supported by an adjustable ankle strap that attaches to a piece of Velcro on the shoe’s lateral side. This also has extended edges, and below it, there is a small gap in the upper that adds to the offbeat nature of the design. White Comme Des Garçons branding text lies across the end of the ankle strap, bringing it a splash of lightness, and the heel panel has classic Nike Air lettering that also contrasts with the otherwise monochrome upper via its use of white tones. Rounding off the design on the insole is a set of dual branding which is once again white to balance against the bold black of the rest of the inner.