Graffiti legend Stash’s groundbreaking sneaker collab with Nike returns, blending bold design, artistic legacy, and modern updates. Grab them while they last—these kicks are street art history in motion.
Few names in the art and sneaker worlds carry the weight of Stash, the legendary New York graffiti artist whose influence stretches from subway tunnels to high-end sneaker boutiques. Known for his bold, spray-can aesthetic and collaborations with global brands, Stash left an indelible mark on sneaker culture when he teamed up with Nike nearly two decades ago. Now, in 2024, his groundbreaking designs for the Air Force 1 Low and Air Max 95 are making a triumphant comeback, thrilling both sneakerheads and art enthusiasts alike.
Stash’s original collaboration with Nike was more than just a product launch—it was a cultural moment. His designs marked Nike’s very first partnership with a non-athlete, paving the way for the now-ubiquitous artist collaborations in the sneaker world. The fusion of Stash’s graffiti art with Nike’s iconic silhouettes was a revelation, blending street culture with sportswear in a way that felt authentic and groundbreaking.
The Air Max 95 and Air Force 1 Low designed by Stash were instant classics. Their bold color palettes and unique design elements resonated with fans and collectors, turning the sneakers into coveted pieces of wearable art. Today, original pairs can fetch anywhere from $300 to an eye-popping $5,000 on the resale market, depending on their rarity and condition.
This year’s reissue stays true to the spirit of Stash’s original designs while incorporating modern updates. Let’s break down the two silhouettes that are turning heads in 2024.
Priced at $200, the Air Max 95 x Stash stays relatively faithful to its original 2005 release. The sneaker features a layered upper drenched in shades of blue, from Midnight Navy and Obsidian to Varsity Royal and Harbor Blue. This tonal palette, reminiscent of Stash’s graffiti work, gives the shoe an unmistakable streetwear vibe while remaining versatile enough for everyday wear.
However, this isn’t just a nostalgia trip. Nike has introduced a few key updates to bring the design into the modern era. The textile blend now includes a mix of real and synthetic leathers, offering both durability and a premium feel. The tongue has been reimagined with a zippered design featuring swappable hook-and-loop patches, adding a playful, customizable element.
One of the most noticeable changes is in the lacing system. The webbing lace loops, which were previously hidden beneath the upper, are now exposed, feeding through open layers for a more dynamic and edgy look. These updates ensure that the Air Max 95 x Stash feels fresh and contemporary while honoring the original design.
If the Air Max 95 x Stash is bold, the Air Force 1 Low x Stash is nothing short of iconic. Priced at $160, this sneaker features a similar color palette, layering hues of Soft Grey nubuck and Harbor Blue textiles with Varsity Royal and Midnight Navy accents. The colors are layered from toe to heel, creating a sleek, gradient-like effect that stands out without being overpowering.
Nike has also introduced modern touches to the Air Force 1 Low, including an updated combination of stitching and fused overlays that smooth out the seams for a cleaner, more polished look. Stash’s signature is prominently embroidered on the tongue label, a nod to the artist’s enduring influence.
But the real showstopper lies on the inside: platinum-lined graffiti insoles that pay homage to Stash’s roots in street art. These insoles make every step a tribute to the creative spirit that first brought this collaboration to life.
What makes Stash’s Nike designs so special isn’t just their aesthetic appeal—it’s the story they tell. Stash came up in the gritty, graffiti-covered streets of 1980s New York, honing his craft alongside icons like Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat. His work, which has been displayed in galleries around the world, carries the raw energy and creativity of the city that shaped him.
By bringing that same energy to Nike, Stash didn’t just design sneakers; he redefined what sneakers could be. His collaborations blurred the lines between fashion, art, and function, proving that a pair of shoes could be as much a canvas as a means of getting from point A to point B.
If you’re looking to snag a pair of these reissued classics, you’d better move fast. The Stash x Air Force 1 Low and Air Max 95 are available in limited sizes on Nike’s webstore, but stock is already dwindling. For those willing to brave the resale market, there’s more variety—but be prepared to pay a premium for these coveted kicks.
The revival of Stash’s iconic Nike designs isn’t just a celebration of sneaker culture; it’s a reminder of the power of collaboration. Stash’s partnership with Nike was a trailblazer in bringing artists into the world of sportswear, and it paved the way for countless collaborations that followed.
As these sneakers hit the streets once again, they serve as a testament to the enduring appeal of Stash’s vision and the timelessness of great design. Whether you’re a longtime collector or a newcomer to the world of sneaker culture, the Stash x Nike reissues are more than just shoes—they’re pieces of history.
So, lace up and step out. With the Air Force 1 Low and Air Max 95 x Stash on your feet, you’re not just wearing sneakers—you’re making a statement.
