Welcome to Sneaker News #110. This week, we’re leading with Nike‘s revival of the ACG Rufus, continuing the slip-on sneaker trend. If you’re after something that hugs the full foot though we’ve got plenty of other options. Nike has collaborated with Nina Chanel Abney on the Nike Air Jordan 3 Retro while adidas is back with Pharrell on a new Samba drop. There is also a comeback from a Puma classic and a fresh Nike AF1 release. Check it all out, plus more below.
Nike ACG Rufus ‘Black’
The ACG Rufus mule is back after more than a decade, featuring luxurious black suede. Designed with a grippy outsole and a cushioned midsole, it’s both cosy and functional. Its easy slip-on design is in line with a number of popular shoe silhouettes from the past couple of years including the Birkenstock Boston. This all-black colourway is a versatile option with a plush upper and a futuristic sole. Grab from Nike on 13th June.
Nike Air Jordan 3 Retro x Nina Chanel Abney ‘Bicoastal and Malachite’
Nina Chanel Abney, the renowned NY-based contemporary artist, follows up her much-hyped AJ2 collaboration by taking on the Air Jordan 3. The Retro x Nina Chanel Abney AJ3 in Bicoastal and Malachite features a combination of waxed canvas and shaggy suede. Orange accents and a Fossil-colored midsole add to the colourful design, while a leather-lined collar and tongue provide a premium feel. There are plenty of fun accents throughout too including chequered insoles, rope laces, and custom heel branding highlighting Abney’s artistry. Nike will have these available on 20th June.
Air Force 1 Low ‘Linen’
The Air Force 1 Low ‘Linen’, initially launched in 2001 as a Japan exclusive, quickly became a sought-after gem among sneaker enthusiasts worldwide. Its re-release in 2016, in collaboration with Kith, marked another milestone, celebrating the opening of Kith’s Miami store. This iteration of the AF-1 Low features the same coveted design, released as part of Nike’s Cult Classics collection. The Cult Classic collection is shining a light on some of the brand’s most-loved silhouettes with exclusive releases just like this. 13th June is the drop date.
Puma Speedcat
The PUMA Speedcat has been around for over 25 years. Initially designed as fireproof footwear for Formula 1® drivers, it has since transitioned from Monaco to the streets becoming a fashion symbol. This reissued silhouette features its original red and black colourways, wrapped in soft suede and premium leather, and now adorned with a fresh PUMA Cat Logo at the front. It feels like it’s the year for the Speedcat to make a mainstream splash. These will drop at Subtype on 28th June.
adidas x Humanrace Samba
It was only a matter of time until Pharrell’s Humanrace collaborated with adidas on its silhouette of the moment. This special Samba release features an upper crafted from premium leather by ECCO, a renowned Danish leather expert since 1963. It’s all in the details here, with zigzag stitching framing the signature 3-Stripes and accenting the tongue. A premium suede T-toe offers tonal contrast, while a floating heel tab completes the silhouette. You can nab a pair of these from Subtype right now.
adidas x NTS Radio Samba
If you’re not into that Samba drop, maybe this one will pique your interest. In collaboration with Hackney-based NTS Radio, this drop, part of a capsule collection, celebrates the new wave of underground football culture through NTS’ unique musical lens. Originally crafted in the 1950s as an indoor football shoe, these adidas x NTS Radio Samba shoes are now a streetwear staple. Head to Subtype to grab a pair right now.
Nike Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG ‘Summit White / Obsidian’
This Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG drop reimagines a classic with premium-washed denim. This iteration showcases a Summit White base beneath Obsidian denim overlays, creating an interesting but successful juxtaposition. Sitting atop a crisp white midsole and a gum brown outsole, there’s a certain vintage flair to it. Key details include a bold Obsidian Swoosh and a clean white Wings logo on the collar. Crafted from genuine leather, it features a stitched-down Swoosh, rubber traction, and a foam sole. If you’re after a pair, you’ll need to enter the raffle right now at Highs and Lows.
