Matt Varga If you were skeptical of BTS’ overwhelming fandom, first of all, you haven’t been paying attention. But surely, despite how ubiquitous the world’s biggest K-Pop group is in some circles, there are still some niches that haven’t come face-to-face with it. In our corner of the world, you were likely greeted with their power when it came to the BTS Nike merch, a limited run of apparel that led to massive lineups outside of Nike SoHo and continues to excite as we await a potential wide launch.
The latest update demonstrates that the Swoosh is far from done when it comes to tapping into BTS’ star power. NIGO, steadfast steward of the Nike Air Force family since coming to Beaverton, will head up a three-way collaboration between him, Nike, and J-Hope, taking over a version of the Nike Air Force 1 ’01 this Holiday season. As with any preliminary leaks of this type, any details are speculative, but a palette of “Burnt Sunrise/Metallic Gold/Taupe/Chlorine Blue/Arctic Punch/Sail” is on tap, indicating an expressive, multicolor arrangement. Patent leather materiality, co-branded logos, and woven laces are also in the works.
Again, the NIGO x J-Hope x Nike Air Force 1 ’01 is expected to release sometime in the Holiday 2026 window, a range between October and the end of the year.
Info and mock-up via SneakerMarketRO.
