Nike Made Ja Morant All-Black Air Force 1s With Swarovski Crystals — but Will They Ever Release?
Leaks may be a fact of life in the world of sneakers, but Ja Morant has decided to take matters in his own hands when it comes to his own signature shoe. The Memphis Grizzlies star has begun leaking shoes himself this year, including a Nike Kobe 5 “Bruce Lee” tribute, with the latest revelation being a jewel-encrusted Nike Air Force 1 that appeared on his Instagram story Monday night.
The Ja Morant x Swaorvski x Nike Air Force 1 is decorated in crystals just like his limited-edition “All-Star” shoes releasing this week. Appearing in all-black, a decision sure to draw commentary because of the colorways’s reputation, the shoe sees its upper rendered in suede rather than leather. Swarovski crystals then form the Swoosh and fill out the tongue and mustache.
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Morant’s own logo is debossed onto the lateral heel, and on the medial side you’ll find his go-to “12:AM” mark. His signature then appears on the inner tongue tag, and a removable keychain renders his logo with a lining of Swarovski crystals.
As Nike has been increasing its usage of Swarovski crystals lately, Morant is quickly establishing himself as one of the biggest adherents to the embellishments. For Nike’s “Black Label” collection of NBA All-Star sneakers, the guard is the only signature athlete with Swarovski crystals on them. He’s also the only person getting two shoes rather than one, as both Nike Ja 2s offer different applications of the jewels. To commemorate his birth year, they’ll both only be made with 1,999 pairs.
Release information for the Ja Morant x Swarovski Nike Air Force 1 has yet to be revealed, and it’s possible it’s a player-exclusive. Nike has been similar special-edition sneakers for its top athletes, though, so all hope is certainly not lost.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
