Fortnite. What a joy you are. Often imitated, but nothing comes close. An ever-evolving gaming phenomenon that constantly drains my V-Bucks wallet. And I love it!
Nike just levelled up the sneaker game – in to the online world of Fortnite. In an exciting collab with Fortnite, the Swoosh is bringing Air Jordan kicks and more into the metaverse, letting players flex their style in ways we’ve never seen before. For sneakerheads and gamers alike, this is the crossover we didn’t know we needed. And this is me, I’m all over this.
Fortnite has been on fire lately, having just last month reached the seemingly all time high (pun intended) of releasing the Snoop Dogg skins, and perhaps even better than that, the Snoop’s Walk emote that has me crip walking all over the Fortnite universe! How do you even begin to top this?! They only went and did it, with the Fortnite x Nike collab!
Be on the lookout for Kicks this week with @nike, @jumpman23, Fortnite originals and more exciting partners down the line!
— Fortnite (@FortniteGame) November 20, 2024
Read more: https://t.co/Sbb1A5nVmO pic.twitter.com/tCQs7ZepdG
The Kicks: Air Jordans Go Digital
Fortnite’s new “Kicks” cosmetic type debuts with Nike’s iconic silhouettes, giving players the chance to lace up in some of the most legendary sneakers ever created. Whether you’re dropping into Tilted Towers or sprinting through the storm, you can now do it in style. The initial lineup includes classic releases and exclusive Fortnite-inspired colourways that bring fresh energy to the iconic silhouette.
These aren’t just skins slapped onto your in-game avatar; they’re meticulously crafted virtual versions of the sneakers that sneakerheads have lined up for IRL. The detailing, from stitching to colour blocking, is on point, making these kicks just as collectible in-game as they are on the streets.
Flex Beyond the Fits
What makes this collab special is that the “Kicks” aren’t just cosmetic – they represent a new way to express individuality in Fortnite. Just like rocking a fresh pair of J’s on the block, lacing them up in-game lets you stand out in the heat of the battle royale. Whether you’re building, shooting, or just vibing at a Fortnite party royale, these kicks will have you looking like a champ.
Sneaker Culture Meets the Metaverse
Nike’s collaboration with Fortnite isn’t just about gaming; it’s about bridging sneaker culture with the digital age. For years, sneakerheads have chased grails in the real world, but now, you can flex on your squad in the metaverse. This move feels like a natural progression for Nike, a brand that’s always been about innovation and pushing boundaries. And with Fortnite’s massive player base, this collab brings sneaker culture to an entirely new audience.
Breaking Down The Drop
Fortnite’s collaboration with Nike introduces a range of iconic sneakers into the game, allowing players to customise their avatars with some of the most celebrated designs in sneaker history. Here’s a detailed look at each model:
Air Jordan 1 High OG ‘Black Toe Reimagined’
This classic sneaker features a white leather base with black overlays and red accents, embodying the original ‘Black Toe’ design that debuted in 1985. In Fortnite, players can equip their characters with this timeless look, adding a touch of sneaker history to their in-game style.
Photo credit: Epic Games / Nike
Air Jordan 11 ‘Retro Bred’
Known for its sleek patent leather and mesh upper, the ‘Bred’ colourway combines black and red hues, making it a favourite among sneaker enthusiasts. In Fortnite, this model allows players to showcase a piece of basketball heritage on the battlefield.
Photo credit: Epic Games / Nike
Air Jordan 3 ‘Black Cement-Gray’
Featuring a black leather upper with cement grey elephant print overlays, this design is iconic in sneaker history. Fortnite players can now equip their avatars with this classic look, blending style and nostalgia.
Photo credit: Epic Games / Nike
Air Jordan 3 ‘Retro Palomino’
Offering a unique colourway with earthy tones, the ‘Retro Palomino’ provides a fresh look for players seeking something different. This model combines classic design elements with a modern twist, enhancing in-game aesthetics.
Photo credit: Epic Games / Nike
Air Jordan 4 ‘Retro Manila’
Paying homage to the Philippines, this sneaker features vibrant colours and unique detailing inspired by Manila’s culture. In Fortnite, it adds a bold statement to any player’s collection, celebrating global sneaker culture.
Photo credit: Epic Games / Nike
Nike Air ‘Galaxy Foamposite’
Bringing a cosmic design to Fortnite, the ‘Galaxy Foamposite’ features a galaxy-themed upper that stands out on the battlefield. This model is known for its futuristic look and is a favourite among sneakerheads.
Photo credit: Epic Games / Nike
Nike Cortez OG
The Nike Cortez OG is a classic silhouette that has been a staple in sneaker culture since its debut in the 1970s. In Fortnite, players can equip this timeless design, adding a touch of retro style to their in-game appearance.
Photo credit: Epic Games / Nike
Nike Shox R4
Known for its distinctive cushioning system, the Nike Shox offers a blend of style and performance. In Fortnite, this model allows players to showcase a piece of early 2000s sneaker innovation, adding a unique flair to their avatars.
Photo credit: Epic Games / Nike
Fortnite Chomp Stomper Shark Slippers
Adding a playful touch, the Fortnite Chomp Stompers feature a fun design inspired by the game’s aquatic themes. These slippers allow players to express their personality and add a lighthearted element to their in-game footwear.
Photo credit: Epic Games
A History of Heat: Fortnite’s Streetwear Collaborations
Fortnite isn’t new to the world of fashion collabs. Over the years, the game has partnered with some of the biggest names in streetwear, creating digital drip that blurs the line between gaming and culture. Previous collabs include the iconic Jordan “Hang Time” bundle, which brought Air Jordan 1 skins to Fortnite alongside the “Downtown Drop” mode. Players could rock Jordans while grinding their way through a city-themed map – a perfect marriage of sneaker culture and gaming. Does anyone remember when they introduced Airphoria Island as part of the Airphoria Event? It was a lot.
Then there was the Balenciaga collab, where Fortnite brought luxury to the battle royale with high-fashion skins, hoodies, and sneakers. Players could flex outfits straight off the runway, turning Fortnite into a digital fashion week. These collabs set the stage for today’s Nike x Fortnite partnership, cementing the game as a hub for digital style.
When and How to Cop
The Nike x Fortnite kicks will be available in the Fortnite Item Shop starting November 22, 2024. Players can purchase them with V-Bucks, the in-game currency. And just like in the real world, you can bet these virtual J’s will be highly coveted, so don’t sleep on the drop. Whether you’re an Air Jordan loyalist or just someone who loves Fortnite’s endless customisation, this collab is a must-have.
Imagine What Could Be Next
It’s great seeing the sneaker and gaming worlds unite with this collaboration. This has certainly got group chats pinging off from all corners of the metaverse. Shoutout to the homie Troublesome T for pinging me the intel on this. Gassed. But could you imagine where the powerhouse of Fortnite could take this in the future?
In both the sneaker world and the gaming world, fanboys geek out on the scarcity of items. Imagine doing shared limited drops with retail and Fortnite. Global product launches happening on Fortnite too. Imagine the countless collabs we can only dream of one day materialising.
If anyone from Epic Games is reading this, I vote for an Evisu collab next! There, I spoke it to the universe, let’s see if I can manifest it, one can only hope!
What would be your dream collab? Hit us up on the socials and let us know!
