2002 Nike Air Rift Black/Varsity Red-Deep Forest

Condition: Deadstock

Size: 8M

Release Year: 2002

First released in 1995, The Air Rift gets its name from Kenya’s Rift Valley province. The design was inspired by the efficient barefoot style of Kenyan long distance runners and their dominance on the international stage. The black, green and red color way is a nod to the Kenyan flag. The signature characteristic – the split between the toes, represents the Great Rift Valley fault line.

However, this split also pays homage to the traditional Japanese Tabi dating back to the 15th century. Towards the end of the 90s, the Rift developed a cult following in Japan as the youth interpreted the design as a modern take on the Tabi.

This version features an entirely perforated, stretch-fit mesh to form a sock-like upper.