Air Afrique Teams Up with Nike on the Dress Shoe-Inspired Air Max RK61

Paris-based creative collective Air Afrique has teamed up with Nike on the Air Max RK61, a dress shoe-inspired makeover of the Air Max SNDR. The project marries heritage, storytelling, and innovation.

Informed by the defunct airline, Air Afrique is committed to being a vessel for cultural exchange between continents. Its Air Max-cushioned collaboration is no different, referencing 20th century advertising, sport, and craftsmanship from another time.

The sleek model features a high-quality, zippered upper that reimagines the Air Max SNDR's late 1990s aesthetic. Tonal "Black" and "Coconut Milk" makeovers claim real estate across two pairs. The RK61—which nods to the original airline's flight code and 1961 founding year—abandons any unnecessary panels up-top for a smart look. The update continues below with the replacement of a hard bottom-like sole unit instead of the SNDR's trail-inspired setup. Visible Air units at the hind-foot opt for green flair that's crucial to Air Afrique's brand identity. A similar hue takes on patterned insoles and custom shoe boxes, which also draw further connection to the airline muse. A carbon fiber shank and waffle-patterned traction round out the design.

Enjoy images from the collaboration's Première Classe campaign, which features Didier Drogba and other figures who embody Afro-diasporic excellence. Air Afrique's Air Max RK61 releases via Nike SNKRS and select retailers across the globe on Thursday, Oct. 9.

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