#hypebaekicks Review: Nike Zoom Fly "BETRUE"
The comfiest and gayest shoes this editor has ever worn.
Pride Month might have already come and gone, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t show your colors for the rest of the year. Launched earlier in May, Nike’s BETRUE 2018 collection is arguably its most beautifully designed LGBTQ pack to date. Featuring a slew of streamlined iterations, the community’s iconic rainbow motif is used in a reworked palette that is seamlessly integrated into the shoes’ designs. For our latest #hypebaekicks Review, we take a closer look at the Zoom Fly sneaker included in the capsule. Perhaps the most symbolically significant offering in the collection, the sneaker incorporates several emblems that have come to signify the LGBTQ community’s ongoing journey of triumphs and struggles. Read on to find out why this Zoom Fly rework is my latest go-to sneaker.
THE SHOE: Nike Zoom Fly “BETRUE”
OUR REVIEW: I think the Zoom Fly might be my new favorite sneaker. Since the model is actually a running shoe, it’s unsurprising that its design is uncompromisingly focused on comfort and functionality. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the silhouette itself is effortlessly chic and easily incorporated into an everyday fit. The opaque material typical for Zoom Fly silhouettes (including the covetable addition in the original Virgil Abloh x Nike “The Ten” release) is also used in this rework, creating an almost papery texture for the upper and contributes to its incredibly lightweight build. Sadly, I must admit that I am not an avid fan of running and therefore, mostly wear these as an everyday shoe. Even so, these are perhaps one of the most comfortable shoes I’ve ever worn (aside from the YEEZY 500). I definitely do not take this statement lightly as those who are familiar with Hong Kong will understand, the city is a metropolis heavy on walking – lots of walking. Comfort aside, the shoe is also rife with LGBTQ symbolism.
Along with the rainbow stripe that runs throughout the crisp white midsole, a rainbow flag is emblazoned on the medial heel segment, as well as a pink triangle placed on the heel of the lateral side panel. Although the pink triangle has come to be recognized as an empowering symbol for the gay community, the history of the token is despairing to say the least. First used in Nazi Germany, the pink triangle was applied as a badge for male prisoners in concentration camps, to mark them for their homosexuality. Reclaiming the symbol and its horrific past, the sign has now come to represent the trials and tribulations that the community has valiantly overcome. In addition the light pink and blue stripes found at the heel pay homage to the transgender pride flag, which also utilizes the same colors.
VERDICT: COP. Whether you’re looking for a running shoe or a stylish everyday sneaker, this release ticks all the boxes and makes a powerful statement at the same time. I would recommend buying this shoe half a size up, as it does run small.
BUY: You can shop the Zoom Fly “BETRUE” at nike.com for $150 USD.
