Nike has done it again with their latest star-spangled Air Force 1 release that immediately takes seasoned sneakerheads back to the glorious 2006 NBA All-Star weekend when Jason Kidd and Vince Carter rocked the legendary AF1 "All-Star" edition.
The new iteration features the same bold patriotic color blocking that made the 2006 release so iconic - white leather base punctuated by metallic silver on the Swoosh and eyestays, offset by navy and bright red accents. Just like the OG, the star embellishments on the lateral side panels steal the show, though the 2023 version amps up the celestial theme with slightly more pronounced dimensional star detailing in varying sizes.
As highlighted by Sneaker News
Deep Roots in Basketball Culture
The 2006 AF1 All-Star (released ahead of the Houston All-Star Game) remains one of Nike Basketball's most important lifestyle releases precisely because it bridged on-court performance with unmistakable streetwear appeal. Hall of Famer Jason Kidd notably rocked them courtside when he wasn't playing:
"Those All-Star AF1s were like wearable trophies. They had weight to them that wasn't just physical - you could feel the history when you laced them up."
- Jason Kidd, 2018 Sole Collector Interview
The 2023 version adds perforations along the mid-panel and an extra midsole cushion technology upgrade, but keeps the exaggerated star on the velcro heel strap that nods explicitly to its OG inspiration.
- ◈ Authentic leather upper with dimensional layered stars
- ◈ Velcro heel strap with oversized star logo (both 2006/2023)
- ◈ Metallic Swoosh surrounded by patriotic red/blue contouring
- ◈ Blue rubber outsole featuring concentric circular traction pattern
Release Timeline & Market Impact
| Edition | Retail Price | Release Method | Resale Market Peak |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006 All-Star AF1 | $150 | General Release | $1,200 (DS in 2022) |
| 2023 Star-Studded AF1 | $170 | SNKRS Members Access | Projected $500-$700 |
Scheduled to release December 19th on the SNKRS app (coinciding with 2023 NBA All-Star voting commencement), early buzz suggests this will be one of the year's most competitive drops given its direct lineage to such culturally significant footwear history.