After a year-long pause, Nike has announced the continuation of its partnership with New York-based artist Tom Sachs, signaling a new chapter in their collaborative journey. The decision comes after an internal review prompted by workplace allegations against Sachs in 2023. Together, Nike and Sachs aim to focus on building a culture of respect and inclusivity while advancing their creative vision.
A Renewed Partnership with a Shared Vision
In a statement, Nike emphasised the steps taken to strengthen the foundation of its relationship with Sachs.
“Tom has demonstrated and recommitted to fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity,” the brand said. “We can confirm that our work with Tom will continue, and this next chapter of NikeCraft will uphold our shared passion for team, product, and storytelling excellence. More details to come in 2025.”
Sachs echoed the sentiment, expressing excitement about their ongoing collaboration and the upcoming release of the highly anticipated Mars Yard 3.0.
“I’m honored that we will continue to build together as a NikeCraft team and community,” Sachs said. “The Mars Yard 3.0 is in its final stage of development and is currently being wear-tested. I’m excited to share more soon.”
Nike also released a teaser image of the Mars Yard 3.0’s inner tongue, giving fans a glimpse of what’s to come.
Controversy and a Path Forward
The announcement follows allegations published in 2023 by Curbed, which painted a troubling picture of Sachs’ leadership style. Former employees described a workplace marked by yelling, thrown objects, and intense demands, with Sachs himself likening his studio to a cult. Additionally, reports claimed inappropriate conduct during a Zoom call with Nike employees.
Nike publicly addressed these concerns at the time, stating: “We’re deeply concerned by the very serious allegations. We’re in contact with Tom and his studio seeking to better understand this situation and how these issues are being addressed.”
In response, Sachs took steps to address the concerns, bringing in external support to formalize HR policies. In an email to his studio employees, he expressed regret for his behavior while disputing specific accusations.
“I have never tried to make anyone feel uncomfortable,” Sachs wrote. “I have never harassed anyone. I would never intentionally harm anyone.”
The fallout led Nike to pause their collaboration, delaying the planned release of the Mars Yard 3.0 in 2023.
A Legacy in Sneakers
Tom Sachs has been a cornerstone of Nike’s creative collaborations for over a decade, beginning with the 2012 launch of the NikeCraft Mars Yard. Its 2017 sequel, the Mars Yard 2.0, became a cultural icon, celebrated for its innovative design and craftsmanship, with unworn pairs fetching thousands on the resale market.
In 2022, Sachs released the General Purpose Shoe (GPS), his most widely produced model. Plans for the Mars Yard 3.0 in late 2023 were delayed as Nike reviewed its partnership with the artist, but the shoe is now set for a 2025 release, carrying forward the legacy of the series.
A key step in this evolution was the Mars Yard 2.5, an unreleased wear-test sample that bridged the gap between the 2.0 and 3.0. Featuring updates like a reinforced toe-cap and durability-focused materials, the 2.5 became a collector’s grail and shaped the functionality-first approach expected in the 3.0.
Leaked images of the 3.0 prototype reveal design cues inspired by the 2.5, including a reinforced plastic toe-cap. While the sample features a black wear-test colorway, the final release will return to the signature Mars Yard palette and include Nike’s iconic Swoosh branding.
Mars Yard 3.0: What We Know So Far
The Mars Yard 3.0 is now set to debut in 2025, marking a fresh start for the collaboration. While final details remain under wraps, a leaked image of a wear-test sample provides some clues. The prototype features a reinforced plastic toe-cap and a black colorway, though the final version will return to the iconic Mars Yard palette and include the Nike Swoosh.
Fans of Sachs’ distinctive design philosophy and the NikeCraft line are eagerly awaiting the release, which is expected to build on the legacy of the Mars Yard series.
