One of the most celebrated members of the Foamposite family is returning next year. The Air Foamposite Pro “Pearl” is expected to launch Holiday 2025, adding to an already incredible list of Nike footwear releases on the slate.
A Brief History Of The Nike Foamposite “Pearl”
The Air Foamposite Pro originally released in 1997. It is distinguishable from its close relative, the Air Foamposite One, due to the Swoosh on the upper, the Swoosh on the heel, and a different outsole traction design. Despite closely resembling the Foamposite One, these shoes are not connected to Penny Hardaway by any means.
The “Pearl” colorway first debuted during the shoe’s original run in 1997; it is remembered for the cream white upper that mimicked the colors of a precious pearl. It features a black Swoosh, lace collar, and interior, a light gum outsole, and red accents on the heel and bottoms.
Pearl Foamposite Releases Through The Years
The Nike Air Foamposite Pro “Pearl” has released a number of times since its original drop nearly three decades ago. The first retro release arrived in 2002 at select stores. Perhaps the most celebrated retro was in 2009 when it released as an exclusive drop at House Of Hoops. A much wider release came a year later in 2010; pairs eventually hit clearance racks. Although fans were happy at the re-release, the shoes were criticized for an inaccurate color (the upper shade of what was too close to a light gold).
The last official release came in 2015 as part of the “He Got Game” aka “Class Of 97” Pack, which released alongside the Nike Zoom Hawk Flight.
Pearl Foamposites in Pop Culture
Despite not having any ties to athletes, the Nike Foamposite “Pearl” isn’t without its cultural relevance. The shoes famously made an appearance in Spike Lee’s film He Got Game on the feet of Jesus Shuttlesworth, the fictional high-school basketball phenom played by Ray Allen. Denzel Washington also starred in the movie.
