Matt Varga Look at Nike, Inc.’s recent plays and you’ll see that expanding their rolodex is a clear focus. From Easy Otabor’s Infinite Archives Jordan 17 to the Free the Youth Jordan 16, tons of first-timers have gotten a chance to take classic silhouettes for a spin. Though many of those spotlighted chase products have come out of the Jumpman’s halls, look no further than the Aya Brown x Nike Air Max 95 for proof that the Swoosh proper is highly involved in that plan.
Revealed over the weekend, the Brooklyn visual artist’s design takes a stab at the vaunted “Neon,” a colorway that’s gotten plenty of burn through the original bring-back, a bandana print offshoot, and additional works like the “Greedy.” What Brown delivers is something entirely unto itself, utilizing a contrastingly earthy upper to break away from what’s typically been paired with that trademark hi-vis cushioning. Given her Big Apple roots, it feels like a knowing nod to the “Beef and Broccoli” palette that’s been a part of the city’s DNA for a generation.
Mesh materiality wrapping the toe box and quarter, reminding us of the legendary Corteiz trio, bring some new textural touches to the 110. Finally, the sentimental heart of this link-up comes into view with custom “ABrown” totes, stamping these as exclusives for Brown’s “found family” with both English and Japanese text. Custom decals and a signed card for the recipient add to that package.
Again, the Aya Brown x Nike Air Max 95 isn’t expected to see a public release, likely restricted to this inner circle allotment (reportedly capped at just 300 pairs). However, you can still check these out in full via photos shared by Aya Brown’s friends & family below.
