How to Buy: Apron Records x Nike Air 180 Collabs

Apron Records is finally set to release two Nike Air Max 180 collaborations.

Originally teased in October 2024 with the help of South Africa's Bubble Koppe, the first-time link-up between the London-based label and Swoosh was reportedly landing throughout that holiday season. February of a new year is well-underway and a first-look at the pending collaboration has surfaced via the record label's founder, Steven Julien.

Apron Records' Air Max 180 features a series of leather and hairy suede panels done in a dark green across the upper. In contrast of initial reports, the pair boasts mismatched swooshes between right and left shoes (Bubble Koppe stated the collaboration would be "swooshless"). A 'Black' crocodile skin-like counter appears on the heel, working in-tandem with the midsole underfoot to deviate from the pair's heavily turf-reminiscent outfit. Chrome detailing also lands around the rear, matching the co-branded razor lace dubrae and Apron text on the spine. The model's iconic 180º Air Max unit enjoys a faux-aged aesthetic that makes the pair appear like it's been sitting in storage since 1991.

To the uninformed, Apron Records might seem like a random collaborator but the label has been making a name for itself since 2014. Julien (also known artistically as FunkinEvin) has shone the light on sounds influenced by jazz, hip-hop, and other genres from his base of London. Collaborations with Patta have also helped him and his work become known.

In the first teaser photos of his debut Nike project, Julien mentions a curious series of words that likely inform the sneaker's design: "ACTON FAMILY RAZOR VORTEX." A full backstory, however, is yet to be shared by the creative.

A firm Nike SNKRS release date has been confirmed for Saturday, March 8, by Nike Sportswear's official Instagram account. Apron Records' frontman teased a second pair – dubbed 'Bloodline' – shortly after the 'Dark Atomic Teal' style got a firm launch date. The 'Team Red' pair is exclusive to the U.K. and will release at an undisclosed location in London on March 8. Only 300 pairs have been produced, according to Julien. Friends & Family of the artist received early pairs (including Javel Berlin, whom provided this story's lead image).

Apron Records' Air Max 180 'Vortex' is currently available in Seoul, South Korea, at a special pop-up event. The address is Gangnam District, Seolleung-ro 157-gil, 20-4. Check out shots of the space below, as well as official product imagery of the Air Max collabs.

For more from the Swoosh empire, check out all remaining Air Jordan Releases for 2025.