The Nike Initiator Further Channels Y2K Era Design Language

Michael Le October 15th, 2023 (updated)

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Though it wasn’t actually born during the early aughts, the Nike Zoom Vomero 5 certainly feels like it belongs to that era. The same can be said for the recently-introduced Initiator, which is effectively a budget-friendly alternative to the aforementioned silhouette.

A testament to the influence of Y2K design, the Nike Initiator is extremely reminiscent of runners from the early to mid 2000s. The colorway itself, too, appears directly inspired by the fashion of the decade, as it shares a penchant for silver metallics. These are applied all throughout the shoe — from the mesh unders the intricately layered overlays — contrasting the blacks along not only the trims and outsole but also the Swooshes along the side and toe. A pop of red then rounds things out via the outline of said checks as well as the insoles and “NIKE” branding.

Enjoy a closer look at this Nike Initiator right here. These are available right now on Nike.com for retail of $75 USD.

In other news, the Concepts New Balance 998 C-Note appears to be returning.