One of Nike's longstanding traditions will continue this summer with the release of a new Puerto Rico-themed Air Force 1.
This year's version covers the heel and quarter panels in a colorful mosaic pattern while the tongue and heel stick with more conventional mismatched blue and red branding. A pebbled material fills in the Swoosh, giving the otherwise white leather make up a premium touch. The look is finished off with an icy rubber outsole.
Expect this Air Force 1 Low to drop alongside other "Puerto Rico" models this summer.
UPDATE (05/22): Nike has officially canceled the release of its 2019 "Puerto Rico" Air Force 1 Low. "We apologize for the inaccurate representation of the design origin for the Nike Air Force 1 'Puerto Rico' 2019. As a result, this product will no longer be available," a Nike spokesperson told Sole Collector.
The cancellation follows backlash from individuals for Nike's use of Mola print on the shoe, a traditional art form from Panama. Noted sneaker aficionado DJ Clark Kent noted that Mola is not a part of Puerto Rican culture in an Instagram post following the pair's initial reveal. A petition was also started asking Nike to removed the print because it was "an insult to The Panamanian culture and history."
