The sneaker world is buzzing with Nike's latest star-speckled Air Force 1 design that immediately takes collectors back to the iconic 2006 NBA All-Star edition. This celestial-inspired iteration features a familiar cosmically detailed upper that channel pure mid-2000s nostalgia.
A Galaxy Reborn
Much like its 2006 predecessor which honored that year's Houston All-Star Game, the new Air Force 1 Low sports a midnight navy base decorated with golden star graphics across the entire silhouette. The original's constellation-like patterning returns with slightly more pronounced metallic flecks that resemble starlight.
"The 2006 All-Star AF1 was groundbreaking in its astronomical presentation. This newcomer maintains that interstellar magic while updating the technical possibilities." — KickHistorians Magazine
Signature Details
Several carryover elements connect both designs:
- Deep navy suede upper with contrasting white
- Metallic gold eyelets and lace tags
- Special edition Astronaut patch on the tongue
- Constellation-patterned rubber outsole
The legendary 2006 NBA All-Star version (left) vs. new 2023 Star-studded release (right)
Why This Matters
For collectors, the connection is particularly meaningful as the 2006 All-Star edition marked the peak of Nike basketball's space-themed designs during the mid-2000s era when NASA-inspired aesthetics dominated sneaker culture.
The 2023 version, while not an official All-Star release, arrives as Nike Basketball revisits retro astronaut styling with latesr LeBron and Cosmic Unity models.