The split-toe silhouette has never been an easy sell, and the Air Rift has long carried the label of "that weird summer sneaker." But setting that debate aside, this shoe has consistently delivered solid colorways, and the new "Black/Illusion Green" is no exception.
The upper keeps its signature layered, flexible construction, this time built on a black base with neon green layered on top, finished off with pops of royal blue branding. The three colors come together in a combo that works surprisingly well. As for the design that made the Air Rift instantly recognizable — that split toe box — it remains untouched here, with the sole still running on a Nike Air cushioning setup built into a running-shoe-style structure. Sandal on the outside, sneaker underneath.
This summer has already been all about "weird shoes," and the Air Rift's comeback is riding that wave perfectly. It's already dropped in a strapped "blueberry" colorway, along with more retro-leaning olive green and "platinum" white options. This new black colorway leans into color-blocking with a hint of vintage flavor, almost as a reminder that this shoe has long been an "it" pair among those in the know — and after all these years, it still looks good.
The Nike Air Rift "Black/Illusion Green" retails for $116 and is available now on the Above the Clouds website.
