Nike Unveils Premium Air Force 1 Made in Italy for $600

The Air Force 1 has long been associated with Italian manufacturing. Nike released High and Low Lux versions back in 2003, then returned to the theme in 2007 for the silhouette's 25th anniversary, and later, high-profile collaborations like Louis Vuitton—if they can even be considered in the same breath—emerged. Today, when quality and craftsmanship have once again become key priorities for consumers, the timing for another return to the Made in Italy format seems more than appropriate.

This time, Nike is introducing a women's version of the Air Force 1 Made in Italy, featuring a significantly reimagined upper. The toe box, side panels, and heel are united in a single, solid piece of black patent leather, while embossed mini Swooshes on the sides add a subtle accent. The heel features a delicate reptile print—a clear nod to the iconic Air Force 1 Lux "Crocodile" from 2007, which remains one of the most coveted Made in Italy releases.

The heel tab is designed without visible bottom stitching, further emphasizing the clean lines. A black leather tongue, tag, and updated toe box complete the premium look, creating a discreet yet luxurious aesthetic.

The $600 price tag is directly related to the Italian manufacturing. While it's expensive, it's also much more affordable than previous Made in Italy Air Force 1s, which retailed for up to $2,000. Expectations should, of course, be kept within realistic limits, but the level of materials and craftsmanship here is clearly superior to standard GR releases.

In a broader context, this release appears to be part of Nike's strategy to "reclaim the feel" of the Air Force 1. The upcoming Patent Pack, SB versions, and a number of recent and planned general releases have already brought the silhouette back into the spotlight. Quality issues were one of the reasons for the decline in interest in the Air Force 1, so the return of the Made in Italy program seems a logical and measured move, even if it's a one-off.