Nike and Paris-based creative collective–Air Afrique– have linked up to launch the Air Max RK61, a dress shoe silhouette that bridges heritage, craft design, and innovation.
The Air Max RK61 takes its name from the original Air Afrique’s flight code “RK” and its founding year, 1961—honouring the airline’s legacy of linking West African countries with the wider diaspora.
The model draws inspiration from the classic Air Max SNDR and timeless moccasin styles, the RK61 channels elegance through a refined upper that pairs with the comfort of Nike’s Air Max technology.
Design details nod to aviation heritage, including an Air Max unit inspired by a jet engine, morse code spelling “Air Afrique” on the outsole, a zipper pull featuring the original airline logo, and a jacquard sock liner reminiscent of vintage aircraft seats.
The silhouette comes to life through a campaign that serves as an ode to Air as both movement and metaphor, with generations of Afro-diasporic icons embodying elevation, including Didier Drogba, Oumou Sangaré, Marie-Josée Ta Lou-Smith, and a former employee of the airline.
The collective includes four members— Lamine Diaoune, Djiby Kebe, Jeremy Konko, and Ahmadou-Bamba
Look out for the Nike x Air Afrique: Air Max RK61 to release on Thursday, 9 October 2025 via Nike SNKRS ZA (12:00).
The retail price is set at R3,899.95 each.
Share your thoughts on this article and join the conversation on Twitter or Facebook.
