Nike has just unveiled a celestial-inspired Air Force 1 that immediately draws comparisons to one of the most coveted basketball sneakers of the mid-2000s - the 2006 NBA All-Star Air Force 1.
A Design Rich in Basketball Heritage
The newly released star-dusted AF1 features galaxy-like constellations across its premium white leather upper, almost identical to the ones that covered the special edition 2006 All-Star version. This new model is dripping in nostalgia, from the similar star placement to its etched galaxy pattern on the midsole.
"This is clearly an homage to the 2006 All-Star original," explains sneaker historian Michael Jordan (no relation). "That shoe marked the peak of Air Force 1 collaborations during the mid-2000s golden age."
The Complete OG 2006 All-Star Package
Fans will remember that the 2006 collection didn't just stop at shoes - it was an entire event concept marking the NBA's mid-season showpiece. Like this new release, the All-Star edition came with:
- Mirror-like silver leather upper
- Laser-cut constellation patterns revealing different colored leather beneath
- Removable silver star charms on the laces
- A special Milky Way-inspired toe cap design
Modern Refinements on a Classic
While clearly drawing from the 2006 vein, this new iteration makes several contemporary updates:
| 2006 All-Star | 2024 Star Edition | |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Full leather | Premium leather/synthetic blend |
| Star Patterns | Die-cut | Printed with textural elements |
| Sole Lighting | Standard rubber | Glow-in-dark outsole stars |
A Cosmic Trip Through Nike History
Much like we saw stellar forces collide to create that iconic moment of 2006 NBA athletes wearing them during the dunk contest, this new Air Force 1 reminds us all why Nike's designers continue fishing from their own perfect moments of footwear history.