The newly unveiled star-covered Nike Air Force 1 has sent shockwaves through sneaker culture, drawing immediate comparisons to one of the most coveted basketball shoes of the mid-2000s.
A Galactic Design Language
With its constellation-like arrangement of perforated stars across shiny premium leather, the 2023 Air Force 1 "Star Studded" appears to directly reference the legendary 2006 Air Jordan 5 "All-Star" edition. That limited release featured a nearly identical star pattern across its infamous translucent midsole, created for Las Vegas' NBA All-Star Weekend.
Nostalgia For Mid-2000s Basketball Sneakers
Sneaker historians note this isn't Nike's first cosmic callback:
- The 2006 Jordan 5 featured a constellation-starred sole
- 2007's Air Force 1 "Las Vegas" used similar star cut-outs
- 2012's Air Foamposite One "Galaxy" continued the theme
Modern Touches On A Classic Silhouette
While clearly nostalgic, the new AF1 isn't a straight recreation:
| Feature | 2023 Air Force 1 | 2006 Jordan 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Upper Material | Premium star-perforated leather | Synthetic mesh with elephant print |
| Star Placement | Across full upper | Confined to translucent sole |
The Air Force 1 "Star Studded" releases July 8 at select retailers and on Nike.com