Alumni of NY | Nike Men's Air More Uptempo '96 'Thank You, Wilson'

Nike Men's Air More Uptempo '96 'Thank You, Wilson'

 

Be the star of your own sci-fi. This reimagining of the Air More Uptempo '96 celebrates Wilson Smith III—the first Black designer in the footwear industry—and his love of space age TV. Stepping into the otherworldly sunset of a futuristic city, the gradient upper carries you to the far reaches of time while the oversized graffiti-styled graphics bring a starlit shimmer with their reflective accents. Ready for lift-off? The tongue label insignia (repping Smith's initials and start date at Nike) is your ticket to launch.

And speaking of launch: Smith's career has been a highlight reel of lifting others up. Defined by his passion around coaching, teaching, and giving back, his trailblazing efforts are captured by the quote on the insole: "...in humility count others more significant than yourselves." From designing and developing products for some of Nike's greatest athletes to leading the way for Black designers, Smith has paved the way with his larger-than-life personality and positivity. Recalling one of his early Uptempo prototypes (check out the mesh upper), this shoe honors his journey and bold style.

So open the shoebox (decorated with one of Smith's original space drawings) and transport yourself into another world—where everything feels a little more Uptempo. Thank you, Wilson!