Andrew Rizzo Created in 2020, Nike’s Yardrunners program highlights the contributions of Historically Black Colleges & Universities through footwear designed in collaboration with alumni. The next Nike Yardrunners release comes to us from stylist Dex Robinson, who just revealed a special Air Force 1 crafted for his alma matter of Virginia Union University.
Dex Robinson is responsible for many of the outfits you see athletes wear pre and post-game, working closely with big names like pro football’s Jalen Hurts and Tyrod Taylor. He’s also the founder of streetwear brand DIALLO, which has been adopted by trendsetters like Offset and Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. Robinson first worked with Nike Yardrunners in 2021 by starring in its annual campaign, then styled models for subsequent series.
The shoe itself plays off VUU’s panther mascot, decked out in faux black pony hair for an aesthetic reminiscent of an Air Jordan 4 from 2019 (and women’s AF1 from 2016). The non-traditional material is complemented by several additional touches, including an iridescent border around the Swoosh, pebbled leather on the tongue and backtab, and semi-translucent gum soles underfoot. Robinson also includes black and red rope laces and a number of metal dubraes with the shoes, heightening focus on his school’s 160th anniversary.
Release information for the Nike Air Force 1 “VUU Panthers” hasn’t been mentioned yet, but it’s possible if not likely the shoes will release locally in Virginia this November. In any case, know that this article will update with all available details.
Sticking with the Swoosh, check out the Nike Wu Tang Dunk releasing November 9th.
