BTS’s j-hope joins forces with NIGO and Nike to reinvent the Air Force 1 with an exclusive design inspired by Japanese fashion.
The connection between music and fashion is once again at the heart of one of the year’s most anticipated releases. j-hope, a member of BTS, has teamed up with Japanese designer NIGO and Nike to unveil a new interpretation of the iconic Air Force 1, a collaboration that brings together Tokyo’s street culture, K-pop aesthetics and the South Korean artist’s unmistakable personal style.
The result is the NIGO x j-hope x Nike Air Force 1 ’01, a pair of trainers distinguished by vibrant colours, glossy materials and personalised details. The release forms part of the Air Force 1 World Tour project, an initiative through which NIGO continues to reinterpret one of the most recognisable silhouettes in Nike’s history.
The collaboration stems from the mutual admiration between the two artists and their shared passion for fashion, music and design. While NIGO brings his expertise as a leading figure in Japanese streetwear, j-hope introduces his distinctive aesthetic universe, known as Hobicore, characterised by bold combinations, vivid colours and an instantly recognisable visual identity.
For this edition, the collaborators have revisited the 2001 Nike Air Force 1 silhouette, a version that differs slightly from the original 1982 design. Its distinctive features include a narrower toe box and a sport-inspired fit, giving the trainers a somewhat sleeker appearance.
However, the real standout feature is the colour palette. The trainers feature glossy leather uppers in Burnt Sunrise and Metallic Gold, creating an orange base with golden reflections. Chlorine Blue accents introduce a striking contrast that connects directly with the singer’s personal style.
The palette is completed by shades of Taupe, Arctic Punch and Sail, resulting in a design that blends retro references with a contemporary interpretation of streetwear.
Beyond the colours, the collaboration incorporates numerous elements that reflect the personalities of its creators. One of the most distinctive details is the appearance of small squirrels, a symbol closely associated with j-hope, featured on both the heels and the insoles.
The customised J-Hope Air and Nigo Air logos also stand out, appearing across the tongues and rear sections of the trainers. Patterned laces provide another distinctive touch, while the special packaging includes a vintage-inspired box and a translucent case featuring the identities of both collaborators.
j-hope himself has expressed his enthusiasm for the glossy, enamel-like finishes, colour combinations and laces, elements he considers essential to conveying the personality of this special edition.
For his part, NIGO has highlighted the BTS member’s cultural influence and his ability to connect with younger generations through creativity.
The collaboration also revisits part of the Japanese designer’s history, with his career closely linked to the development of Tokyo’s streetwear scene during the 1990s. His relationship with Jun Takahashi, the LO2 column and the NOWHERE boutique are among the references that have inspired previous releases within the project.
