When it comes to streetwear’s most impactful influencers across history, NIGO is a name that cannot be overlooked. From opening NOWHERE in Harajuku with Jun Takahashi and starting A Bathing Ape (BAPE) to founding HUMAN MADE and becoming the Artistic Director at KENZO, his run throughout the past 30 years has been nothing short of incredible. However, one thing that has always eluded the Japanese multi-hyphenate is a collaboration with Nike. Despite this, he’s played plenty with the Swoosh’s footwear offerings — most notably ushering in the iconic BAPE STA in 2000 as an elevated take on the Air Force 1 Low. Now, it may finally be time for him to take things to the next level.
According to a report from Complex’s Brendan Dunne, sneaker industry insiders have shared that NIGO has signed a deal with Nike. One of Dunne’s sources noted that the duo is already working on its first sneaker, however, no products are expected to be released until at least 2024. Previously, NIGO’s brands had worked with adidas for an extended period of time with HUMAN MADE outfitting the ADIMATIC less than a year ago. Backing this rumor, NIGO was spotted just last week wearing the Nike Go FlyEase via VERDY’s Instagram.
No official announcement has been made yet and neither NIGO or Nike have issued a statement regarding this rumor. Stay tuned for additional information as news of this partnership continues to surface.
In case you missed it, Nike is finally suing BAPE for copying its most iconic shoe silhouettes.
