To highlight various HBCU alums, schools, and their culture/impact, Nike created the Yardrunner program in 2020. Since its inception, the program has given opportunities to multiple designers who cut their teeth at HBCUs to help create new sneaker designs and apparel that honor their alma matta. No official word has come from Nike regarding a 2024 collection of footwear. Still, Dex Robinson, an alum of Virginia Union University, founder of the streetwear brand Diallo, and someone who has helped create previous Yardrunner projects, has previewed a new Air Force 1 Low that honors the private HBCU.
Directly inspired by VUU’s Black Panther mascot, the sneaker comes blacked out in faux-fur materials across the upper. In an interview with WWD, Robinson stated that he chose this specific material not only to represent the panther in a literal sense but to exude a “sense of elevation and luxury.” This project is also a first for the school, as VUU’s athletic programs are sponsored by Under Armour, making this, hopefully, the first of many Nike collaborations in the future. Back to the shoe, the sneaker features VUU’s logo on an added hangtag and metallic silver lining along the edge of the Swoosh on the midfoot. Underfoot sits a black AF1 midsole paired with a semi-translucent clear outsole that likely features some nod to VUU.
The Nike Air Force 1 Low VUU Panthers is slated to release Holiday 2024, though exactly how remains a mystery. It’s possible the pair will remain exclusive to the university and be released in and around VUU’s campus. Download the Sole Retriever mobile app to stay updated on release info for this HBCU-inspired sneaker and more in the sneaker and streetwear world.
Nike Air Force 1 Low VUU Panthers
Image via dexrob
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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
