Nike’s Mid-90s Superhero Features Over the Nike Air Kukini “Swoosh Man”

In the summer of 1996, Nike Sports Entertainment (NSE) division came into existence.

The NSE team started working on sports-themed events that would feature the likes of Michael Jordan, Andre Agassi, and Tiger Woods. Of course, the big names were just part of these events with the speculates enhanced by performers, activities, and the like. As part of drumming up the hype, Nike also wanted a mascot, and Nike, being Nike, was not going to settle for something simple. Swoosh Man was born. It was short-lived, though, as the NSE division abruptly came to a halt during the Asian financial crisis of 1997, which saw sales drop and company-wide cuts made. Poor old Swoosh Man was shelved. But he, like the sneaker models from the same era, has made a resurgence of late, with his appearance in the brand’s “Mighty Swooshers” series; a fictional manga created by the brand used as a running theme of footwear and apparel releases.

Though he’s only played mine roles in these releases, his recent inclusion as a figurine on the pack’s Zoom Flight 95 and his prominence on this new Nike Air Kukini would suggest that Swoosh Man is making a comeback.

Nike Swoosh Man prototype, circa 1996

Here, he not only dresses the pair’s neoprene upper in repeating prints, but he also informs the entire aesthetic of the release. Matching the mystery man’s $125,000 suit, the pair is caged in metallic silvers, matching chrome leathers at the toe, heel, and tongue. His Batman-like chest plate is mimicked at the tongue, with it’s oval-shaped badge sporting a striking red Swoosh in parody to the fictional hero. The pack’s theme is continued at the insole, with black liners and sole units rounding out the design.

Though there’s no current release date penned for the pair, we are expecting Nike to announce details soon. Until then, grab an official look at the Nike Air Kukini “Swoosh Man” here below, and, as always, keep your eyes glued to our official Twitter account for further updates