Melitta Baumeister and Nike Are Reimagining the Air Rift
A fresh take on the sneakerhead’s favorite tabi.
If you thought the tabi obsession was slowing down, think again. NYC-based designer Melitta Baumeister is back with her latest Nike collaboration, officially unveiling the striking Nike Rift Rocker during Seoul Art Week. Following her viral, sculptural spins on the Vomero Premium and Pegasus Premium last year, Baumeister is turning her artistic eye to one of the swoosh’s most iconic silhouettes: the cult-favorite Air Rift.
This isn’t your average sneaker. Baumeister has drastically transformed the split-toe sneaker with an oversized, chunky rocker sole complete with a debossed Nike Swoosh. The upper features a tactile, crackled finish that gives the silhouette an edgy and raw texture that aligns with the designer’s overall aesthetic.
Keeping things playful, a mischievous pair of eyes peers out directly from the heels. You’ll also find signature Melitta Baumeister branding stamped across the middle strap, while Nike’s delicate cursive lettering flows along the midsole and heel strap for an extra feminine touch.
Fashion insiders got a first-hand look at the experimental pair during a special NIKELAB SEOUL pop-up installation in Jongno-gu. While an official release date is still under wraps, this high fashion drop is guaranteed to be on every trendsetter’s wishlist.
In other news, KidSuper and Havaianas launched a soccer-inspired collaboration.
