Ross Dwyer It’s been an even dozen years since Nike first started celebrating the Chinese New Year with special releases. 2019 is the “Year Of The Pig,” the last animal sign on the Chinese Zodiac, so Nike is pulling out all the stops for this year’s collection: they’re using patterns and detailing inspired by all twelve Zodiac signs, done up in a traditional Chinese patchwork style — Bai Jia Yi. The assemblage of shoes is nothing short of expansive. Each of the Swoosh Brand’s many arms is represented, with everything from modern-day models like the Kyrie 5 and Air Max 270 to classics like the Air Max 98 and Air Max 90 plus much more present. Jordan and Converse get in on the fun too with a special Air Jordan 12, Air Jordan 33, and Chuck 70.
The color palette consists of reds, golds, and yellows, nodding to traditional Chinese royalty. Two main graphics are present on the collection: a bright and bold patchwork-style quilt pattern that’s inspired by each Zodiac symbol, and an abstract mosaic pattern that also offers shades of all twelve symbols. The Swoosh Brand is also nodding to CNY releases of the past, pulling special details like patent leather from 2009’s Air Max 1 and faux snakeskin from 2013’s Air Force 1 onto the new models for a clever wink and a nod to previous drops. Check out each shoe in the collection below, let us know what your favorite pair is in the comments, and look for a gradual rollout on Nike.com over the course of Februray 2019.
Nike CNY “Year Of The Pig” Collection
Release Date: February 2019
