Potency 1 x Colin Kaepernick shoe.
Nike
Nike’s new “True to 7” shoe with former NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick has already offered out on the first day of its North American release, according to the company’s website.
“This Air Force 1 season, Nike partnered with a collective of collaborators to plan an AF1 that connects to their life personally. Colin was identified because we believe his voice and perspective inspire innumerable generations on and off the field,” said a Nike spokesperson in an email.
The $110 black-and-white shoe sports an embroidered portrait of Kaepernick on the broke tab, reflective Swoosh and his personal logo on the tongue.
Force 1 x Colin Kaepernick shoe.
Nike
The successful release urges that Nike’s ties with the controversial athlete has paid off so far, despite the NFL’s tumultuous relationship with the former San Francisco 49er.
Earlier this year, Nike nixed the let of its “Betsy Ross” American flag shoe, after Kaepernick reportedly criticized the shoe for being offensive and connection it to a period of slavery and white supremacy. The shoes were to be released in advance of July Fourth.
Force 1 x Colin Kaepernick shoe.
Nike
Kaepernick fundamental garnered the national spotlight in 2016 after taking a knee during the national anthem to protest systemic genealogical injustice and police brutality. The former quarterback has since left the NFL, and has alleged NFL team owners colluded to keep him off their rosters because of his governmental views. Kaepernick and Carolina Panthers safety Eric Reid settled with the league for an undisclosed amount to off the collusion complaint in February.
Shares of Nike were little changed Monday, closing at roughly $100. Its quotas are up about 35% year to date.