The late designer leaves behind a unique take on the iconic sneaker

When it comes to designing sneakers, no one comes close to duplicating the generational talent of the late Virgil Abloh. Celebrating Abloh’s legacy and talent, Sotheby’s announced the online auction of limited-edition Nike sneakers created by the iconic designer. A total of 200 pairs are being made available for this auction in an exclusive colorway and in a range of sizes. In celebration of the 40th year of the Nike Air Force 1, Virgil Abloh collaborated with Nike to design 47 pairs of one of the most iconic shoes ever made. The event will mark the first launch for the Louis Vuitton x Nike collaboration, which was unveiled in June last year as part of Louis Vuitton’s Spring/Summer 2022 menswear show. Its design blends the trainer’s classic codes with the emblem and materials of Louis Vuitton in homage to the hip-hop culture that shaped him. 

The kicks are embellished with Louis Vuitton’s monogram and checkerboard pattern as well as the designer’s signature “AIR” label on the sole and “LACET” along the shoelaces.

The shoes also come with their own Louis Vuitton pilot case, which was also designed by Abloh. Made of monogram-designed orange leather, the trunk comes with a white Nike Swoosh tag attached to the handle. The pilot case adapts to every shoe size based on an internal cushion system. 

Abloh was involved in organizing the auction prior to his death. Taking place from January 26 to February 8, the auction will offer 200 pairs of Air Force 1s with bids starting at US$2,000 (B66,106). The proceeds of the sale will go to The Virgil Abloh “Post-Modern” Scholarship Fund, which was launched in 2020 to support the education of academically promising fashion students of Black, African-American or African descent.