Nike's latest star-covered Air Force 1 release has sent shockwaves through sneaker culture, instantly drawing comparisons to one of the most iconic limited editions in basketball history—the 2006 NBA All-Star Game Air Force 1.
A Galaxy of Stars Returns
The 2023 iteration features the same celestial aesthetic that made the ’06 pair legendary, with embossed stars covering the premium white leather upper. The original All-Star exclusive—designed for the Houston-hosted midseason classic—became instant grails due to David Stern's reported disapproval of players wearing non-regulation shoes, making game-worn pairs extraordinarily rare.
2006 All-Star AF1: Limited to 400 pairs with authentic NBA player autographs
2023 Star AF1: GR release featuring similar star motifs without player association
Design Breakdown
- Upper:
- Outsole:
- Tongue Label:
- Laces:
- Outsole:
"The 2006 All-Star AF1 fundamentally changed how we view basketball-adjacent footwear. This new release isn't a retro, but rather a spiritual successor that taps into the same astronomical energy." — DJ SneakErnest, Sole Collector Magazine
Cultural Impact
Where the original pair symbolized the convergence of NBA superstars during midseason festivities, the 2023 version arrives as part of Nike's "Celestial Pack" targeting a broader audience. Early styling suggest these pair exceptionally well with both streetwear and elevated fits—much like their progenitors seventeen years prior.
The '23 Star AF1