John Kim 
Some major news has filtered out today from one of the most impassioned aficionados of Nike Air Force 1s. The high-end Bespoke program offered exclusively through 21 Mercer made a sudden return with two new sneaker models holstered on its side, but back then only the Air Force 1 Low was available for this unparalleled experience in customized kicks. For those who aren’t aware of what the Bespoke program is, think of it like an in-person NIKEiD design session with premium materials, incredible design options, and and endless array of colors at your disposal for 31 different selections. Since it launched in mid-November of 2008, we’ve seen some awesome concepts that were only the stuff of dreams come into fruition, and we’ve listed here some of the standouts that display these color/material/detail options proudly. Refresh your memory on these unforgettable creations below.
“Strawberry Quik” by Mayor
Mayor’s Bespoke collection is incredible vast, so we’ll go with the one shoe that is perhaps the most memorable. This bright pink and reflective silver colorway was dubbed the “Strawberry Quik” and was a major hit on the ‘net, but we salute Mayor’s ability to keep things clean and simple.
“Pikachu” by Franalations
Franalations is known for his Nike SB Dunk hoarding, but he’s also a bit of an AF1 fiend. He’s got a set of Bespokes inspired by Pokemon, of which this “Pikachu” theme is the most impressive.
“atmos” by Vandal A
Vandal A, known for his “OG” apparel line and sneaker-themed tees, channeled a legendary Air Max 1 release for this design. The “Viotech” color scheme shines through, but it’s the accurate detail like tiny Swoosh on the forefoot and the swoosh on the heel-tab that have us in awe.
“Michael Jordan” by Layupshot
Not much is know about the individual known as Layupshot, but this must is true – he loves the NBA, and he loves Bespokes. This Michael Jordan inspired pair is just one of many he created in a long theme of All-Star legends in the NBA, with the defining detail being the tongue that features the number of ASG appearances by the specific player.
Reflective Elephant Print by Premium Pete
Elephant Print was extremely selective back when Pete made this design. It was so good that some counterfeiters in Asia copied his design and sold ’em for under a bill.
“Cork” by Edison Chen
That’s right – before the LeBron 10, the Asian superstar and CLOT frontman Edison Chen made a pair of AF1s with a full Cork upper and gum outsoles.
“AACG Bespeaux” by Aaron Kr.
One of our own jumped into the Bespoke experience and combined two of his favorite sneaker themes ever – “Bordeaux” from the Air Jordan VII, and the burgeoning ACG category.
“Will Your Marry Me” by Brandon Renken
Sneakerhead Brandon Renken used the Bespoke as a means to propose to his now wife, thusly setting the bar for all sneaker-inspired marriage proposals.
“Love and War” by Larry Luk
ATL native and graphic designer Larry Luk came through to NYC to experience the Bespoke session for himself. Black waterproof denim, black patent leather, black stamped leather, baseball stitching, and a clear 1MX sole rendered Luk’s design one of the best ever.
