The newly released star-embellished Air Force 1 (Photo: Nike)

Nike's latest Air Force 1 iteration is sending sneakerheads on a nostalgic trip with a celestial design that strongly echoes the iconic 2006 NBA All-Star edition.

Design Breakdown: A Galaxy All Over Again

The new release features all-over silver stars on a black premium leather upper, complemented by icy blue translucent soles – an almost identical treatment to the legendary '06 All-Star pair that honored Houston's hosting duties. The metal Nike AIR tongue tag and silver eyelets complete the cosmic aesthetic.

Left: 2006 All-Star edition | Right: 2024 Star reimagining

Nostalgia Playing Major Factor

Several key differences exist though, most notably the full color-star treatment (versus only side panel stars on the '06 version) and replacement of the Texas-themed logo with generic Nike branding. Still, collectors note this might be the closest official recreation of the highly coveted 2006 design.

"When I first saw leaked images, I literally gasped – this looks like what would happen if Nike did a retro+ colorway of the All-Star joints," said longtime collector Marcos Rivera via @solest2oceansDOTcom

Market Reaction & Release Plans

Early previews have sparked significant secondary market movement with original 2006 pairs seeing 23% price jumps on StockX since last week's teaser drop. Nike has yet to confirm an official release date but insider accounts suggest a late Summer 2024 launch with possible variants in silver/gold color blocking.

Would you cop these as an alternative to the impossibly rare OG All-Stars? Drop your thoughts in the comments – the debate between vintage purists and new-release enthusiasts is already heating up!