The wider Beaverton universe contains many athletes that claim to be the “GOAT,” but in modern times, none under the Nike banner hold the depth of catalog and illustrious career that Serena Williams does. Since minting her “Serena Williams Design Crew” label, she’s been given pretty much unfettered access to many of the brand’s most iconic silhouettes. So why shouldn’t #1 reach back to #1? Her latest output comes on the Nike Air Force 1, delivering a youthful take on Bruce Kilgore’s iconic design.
Though a Compton native, Williams now resides in Miami, even holding a partial ownership stake in the Dolphins. Her connection to the 305 is literally spelled out on the tongue of either shoe, featuring the same lively, curvilinear type seen on her trademark logo on the heel. Moreover, this edition for the Serena Williams Design Crew capitalizes on a lively, animated atmosphere, from the sky-like airbrushed overlays, to the injection of neon green tonality on the laces and midsole welting. If the “blue sky” motif wasn’t driven home enough, look to the marbled blend of light blue and white on the sockliner, further enhanced by a puffy, Jewel Swoosh at the quarter.
As a final note, the grind sole underfoot and floral logo on the insole leads us to believe that this shoe sports “Next Nature” construction, an initiative where at least 20% of the material comes from recycled or reused sources. It’d be a natural evolution for Williams’ work with Nike — already utilizing similar eco-friendly materials for both apparel options and her wing on the Nike Campus.
The Serena Williams Design Crew Air Force 1 Low will launch as part of Nike’s Spring 2025 offerings — women’s sizing and a $150 sticker price are projected.
