While you've likely (read: definitely) blown through the latest season of your favorite sci-fi drama series by now, that doesn't means you can't still can't indulge in it in new and super rad ways. Thanks to the
third Nike x Stranger Things collaboration, which just dropped and features two all-new sneaker styles, it's officially the cult-favorite show that keeps on giving. Nike sneakers and Stranger Things all in one? Count me in. The summer of 1985 might have been when Eleven found her sartorial groove but the summer of 2019 is certainly when I'll be stepping into mine.
If you watch the show then you already know that Nikes have been part of its costuming since season 1. Steve Harrington rocks swooshes on the regular and a handful of other characters have been spotted in them as well. Seeing as the brand has been around since 1964, it makes sense that kids in '80s-era Hawkins, Indiana would be sporting its designs. It also makes sense that Stranger Things would therefore want to collaborate with the brand on a retro-inspired collection and bring the best of both of their worlds together. Sneakerheads, get ready — this collaboration is unlike anything you've ever seen before.
Comprised of two appropriately throwback silhouettes, the Tailwind ‘79 and the Cortez, the drop is small but mighty.
Both styles arrive in a textured "Sail" upper, which boasts a neutral off-white hue. Aside from white heel detailing, the entire upper including the swoosh are covered in the material, giving it an unexpectedly monochromatic appeal.
Both styles feature "NIKE" stamped across the heel in bright red, while a white sole and white laces add fresh pops of brightness.
Both styles also feature Nike and Stranger Things co-branded tabs on the tongue, which are black and red and starkly contrast the otherwise oatmeal shoes.
The sneakers feel light, airy, and perfect for summer, although as someone who seems to destroy white sneakers in a flash I don't know how easy it would be to keep them looking pristine. Especially with all of the Russian spy chasing and Mind Flayer fighting that needs doing these days. Regardless, you can snag a pair at SSENSE for $165 USD if they've caught your fancy.
Otherwise, one of the two other Nike x Stranger Things drops might be of interest. The first collaboration includes a generous lineup of Hawkins High School-themed sweatshirts, pants, and tees that'll make you feel like you attended school right alongside Mike, Lucas, Dustin, Max, Will, and Eleven.
If sneakers are more your thing, it also included matching versions of Nike's iconic Cortez, Blazer and Tailwind '79 styles.
The second collaborative drop was extra sneaky, both for the fact that it could only be copped during a scavenger hunt with BAIT at San Francisco Comic Con and for its brilliant design details. It was comprised of a single shoe, the Tailwind, which had been covered in a rough grey fabric that could be burned away with a lighter to reveal special messages and sketches underneath including Russian codes and machine designs.
Pretty cool, no? We can only hope more drops are on their way.
