One of the greatest American sports stories that coincided with progress toward racial equality, Jackie Robinson breaking the color barrier in Major League Baseball is one of the most inspiring stories as number 42 faced plenty of challenges regarding his race not only during his time in the MLB but after his retirement. Because of what Robinson endured during his time with the Brooklyn Dodgers, the legend dedicated his life outside of the sport to promoting diversity and equality amongst all, and became a symbol that inspired many to pursue their dreams in the face of adversity. To honor the late Robinson, the MLB dedicates April 15th (the day Jackie entered his first MLB game in 1947) as Jackie Robinson Day, and Nike decided to join in on the celebration last year with the Nike Dunk Low "Jackie Robinson" that ended up being a contender for sneaker of the year. Now leading up to 2023’s celebration, official images have surfaced of a Nike Air Force 1 Low “Jackie Robinson.”
Taking on shades that would match the uniform of Robinson’s Brooklyn Dodgers, the silhouette comes covered in shades of white, red, and blue, with gum taking over the sole unit below. Across the upper, you’ll find tumbled leather panels on the mudguard and eyestays, while smooth leather appears on the toebox, quarter panel, and heel overlay. Golden accents land on the “1947” and “1956” branded lace dubraes as well as the eyelets with the two years representing the 9-year span Robinson played in the Major Leagues. Inspiring messages appear on the white lace set with the phrase “change the world” placed throughout, while the tongue below takes on a blue canvas build and a Brooklyn Dodgers “B” embroidered on its center. More blue canvas appears on the Swoosh and heel tab with Robinson’s jersey number 42 embroidered in red on the lateral heel. Tying everything back to baseball is the red baseball stitching found on the spine of the heel while everything gets finished off by a semi-translucent gum rubber midsole and outsole with black speckle details.
The Nike Air Force 1 Low Jackie Robinson will be released on Jackie Robinson Day, April 15th, 2024, through Nike and select NSW retailers online and in-store. Coming in men’s sizing, the retail price is set at $120. Keep it locked to our Twitter and the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on the latest releases, raffles, news, and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Nike Air Force 1 Low Jackie Robinson
Images via Nike
Sneakerhead from South Florida who turned his passion into a career. Concerts, music, trying new restaurants, and catching the latest movies are some of the things I enjoy when not writing for Sole Retriever. Email: nick@soleretriever.com