Nike’s push into the web3 space has proven somewhat successful so far even with the entire crypto and NFT market taking a nosedive near the end of 2022. The company’s first partner in this space, RTFKT, has already launched a series of Nike Dunk NFTs that can be customized via NFT vials and the AF1 Genesis Collection, however, these will remain digital for the foreseeable future. Finally breaking through the digital landscape into real life, we had first looks at the RTFKT x Nike Cryptokicks iRL a couple of months back with word that the pair would drop in December. Now RTFKT itself has come out and showcased all four colorways launching in the coming weeks through a series of mint and forge events.
Taking its inspiration from the iconic Nike Air Mag that was featured in the film Back To The Future II, the Cryptokicks iRL silhouette will be the first native web3 sneaker featuring the latest technology - combining Nike’s innovations in the sneaker world and RTKFT’s vision to merge the digital and physical worlds. Just like the sneakers Marty McFly rocked in the futuristic version of 2015, auto-lacing tech is embedded into the silhouette as well as LED lights, haptic feedback, gesture control, walk detection, AI/ML algorithms, wireless charging, an NFC chip, and even connectivity to a companion mobile app.
If you own a pair, you’ll be able to participate in what RTFKT is dubbing “iRL Quests,” a series of mechanics that utilizes the sneaker's “Move-To-Earn” component, however, full details have yet to be revealed on exactly what the quests will consist of.
As stated earlier, the sneaker also contains some of Nike’s best innovations in the sneaker space as the sole unit contains Zoom Air Turbo under the ball of your foot, articulated to engage at different angles while a second Zoom Air unit sits below the heel.
Four colorways are headed to the mint, coming in “BLACKOUT,” “ICE,” “STONE,” and “SPACE MATTER.” The release method is as follows:
- Lace Engine NFT holders can access the private mint on December 12th, 2022 beginning at 10:30 AM EST, however, you can mint before and during the public mint (until supply lasts).
- Those who wish to enter the draw for the public mint can do so beginning December 7th, 2022 at 11:00 AM EST with entries closing on December 9th, 2022 at 11 AM EST. To enter the draw, you must have an RTFKT account, a crypto wallet that is supported by WalletConnect, at least .5 ETH in the wallet, and a US shipping address. Winners will be selected on December 13th with the public mint event going live at December 14th at 8 AM EST.
Limited to 19,000 pairs between all four colorways, the sneakers will retail for varying prices (listed below) depending on if you are a Lace Engine Holder or a draw winner in the public event while each colorway will also come in at a different price. The transaction will take Ethereum, however, the final ETH price will be adjusted regarding the exchange rate between ETH and USD on the day of the mint. Pairs will be delivered in May 2023. For full details regarding the event, check out RTKFT’s FAQ here. 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.
Images via RTFKT
RTFKT x Cryptokicks iRL “BLACKOUT”
RTFKT x Cryptokicks iRL “STONE”
RTFKT x Cryptokicks iRL “ICE”
RTFKT x Cryptokicks iRL “SPACE MATTER”
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
