The Nike Air Flight Huarache Borrows The “Bordeaux” Look From The Air Jordan 7

When conceptualizing the Air Jordan 7, Tinker Hatfield looked towards the ground-breaking Air Flight Huarache, borrowing the weight-reduction elements that stretched the possibilities of what a basketball sneaker could do. In 2023, the AJ7 is returning the favor by lending its most iconic colorway for a forthcoming release.

The Air Flight Huarache is most recognizable for the large cut-outs at the ankle. This accomplished two things: reduce weight and allow for more flexibility without compromising stability. Those efforts in engineering laid the groundwork for Nike Basketball in the 1990s, heavily influencing design approach that would eventually lead to the low-cut boom. On a style standpoint, the Flight Huarache became a must-have for off-the-court purposes, largely due to the Fab Five setting that sport-as-lifestyle trend with the shoes and their baggy shorts.

This upcoming release, as you can clearly see, is heavily inspired by the Air Jordan 7 “Bordeaux”, arguably the most ambitious color offerings relative to the time. This Flight Huarache, however, features the same rubbed-off aesthetic in which the exterior paint appears to be worn away to reveal a hidden layer beneath.

A release is looming, arriving on Nike.com and partnering retailers for $125. Keep an eye on @sneakernews and @kicksfinder for updates on availability.