Chinese New Year is almost here so it’s time go shopping for new clothes and shoes! While shopping, don’t forget to check out Nike’s new collection. Yup, they have released a whole collection that will celebrate the Year of the Rat with you! The collection uses colours and embellishments inspired by previous CNY packs and traditional Yuxian paper-cutting. In fact, this supplies a dual-pronged nod to the Swoosh and the Jumpman’s rich history in China.
Nike’s Year of the Rat Collection
This new collection incorporates designs from the past four ‘Year of the Rat’ cycles. The previous Year of the Rat years are 2008, 1996, 1984, and 1972. Moreover, these unique designs are featured on footwear as well as apparel pieces released for Nike and Jordan.
In addition, these special patters draw inspiration from Yuxian paper-cutting which is a style of creating images out of rice paper. The craft requires precise use of scissors and knives to turn the delicate medium into animals, flowers, and more.
So which shoes can you expect to browse through? Under Nike we have the Air Max 1, Air Force 1, Air Max 720 and two styles of Kyrie 6 for men. Meanwhile, women can choose from the Air Force 1 Shadow, Air Max 270 React, and a new Joyride Run 2.
Finally, a unisex Air Max 90 will complete the collection of footwear. Moving on to Jordan, the brand is offering the choice between the Air Jordan 13 and Air Jordan 34.
The Designs
Moving on, there will be four Yuxian patterns which refer to a different impactful moment in Nike’s history. Three of these are associated with China. Different styles are used to apply the unique design to the shoes. This ranges from debossed detailing to printed graphics and more.
The first design is based on the Cortez and nods to 1972 which is the year that Nike was founded. Next, the second pattern features the Nike Sportswear logo in the centre of a medal. There is also a racing track and koi fish to acknowledge the 1984 Olympics where China earned its first-ever gold medal. This was also the year that Nike began a sponsorship with the Chinese track and field team.
Furthermore, the third design is inspired by 1996 which saw the release of the Air More Uptempo. It also saw China’s basketball team make it to the quarterfinals of the Olympics in Atlanta. Lastly, the final design nods to 2008 when Beijing hosted the Olympics and Nike debuted the Hyperdunk.
The entire collection is set to be released throughout the month of January on the Nike webpage and select retailers globally.
