Our verdict
Amp up your cool factor with the Air Rift from Nike. This 1995 runner's signature split-toe design may look wacky, but it's undeniably its most appealing characteristic. It does not only exist to give it its outlandish looks but it's able to give the sensation of running barefoot (unrestricted movement + natural foot motion). Add to the equation its pillowy Nike Air cushioning on the heel and plush foam midsole, and you can easily say that this shoe is "heaven-sent."
Pros
- Slipper-like comfort
- Compliment-magnet
- Expect this delicious Nike SB Dunk Low to drop in the coming months
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- Easy to slip on and off
- It feels airy on feet
- For work days and short runs
Cons
- Tight on the toe box
- Runs warm
Who should buy the Nike Air Rift
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- prefer sneakers that do not give a dragging down sensation
- enjoy eye-catching kicks with next-level comfort
- Nike Air Cross Trainer 3 Low White Lt Smoke Grey-Bright Crimson-Black
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Who should NOT buy it
Although made for summer and spring, the Nike Air Rift feels warm when worn. Alternatively, we've cataloged several summer-ready sneakers that offer great air ventilation to keep your toes comfy and sweat-free. Check out its breathable version, the Air Max Verona "Light Bone" or the Nike Free Run 2.
A quick look at Nike Air Rift's past
Yes, the Nike Air Rift is back in all its oddity. But did you know that Nike isn't the first brand to develop a cloven hoof-like shoe? Although the Nike Air Rift dates back to 1995, this shoe's split-toe design was first seen in 15th-century Japan. Known as "tabi" socks, these socks later turned into light and durable work boots called Jika tabi. Martin Margiela also shared its history by transforming these workhorses into glorified hooves.
Fast forward to the year 1995, Nike (with its love for the fast-paced sport of running) introduces its first split-toe runner. Dubbed as the Nike Air Rift, its name and design are inspired by a Run system that runs through the north and south of Kenya called Great Rift Valley.
Kenya, for decades, has been able to produce the world's best runners. Kenyan runners, as kids, were used to running barefoot or with minimal protection. Thus, it just made sense for a mad designer and ultra-distance runner like Kip Buck (with the help of Tinker Hatfield) to give these shoes a stretchy shoe-slash-sandal build. This type of design allows unhindered motion and gives a barefoot-like feel.
Nike Sportswear Gym Crew
Nike Air Max 0 Euro Tour 2020 Ältere Kinder Schuhe Weiß CZ8650 100 Doppel Box:
- separating the big toe from the rest lets the foot flex naturally and move more efficiently
- reduces pain and minimizes foot-related injuries
- promotes balance
Nike Free OG 2014 | 2021 Nike Air Rift: Same eccentric look in an eco-friendly package
The Air Rifts has been seen in various colors and designs in the past. For 2021, the shoe comes with a few exciting updates:
- Equipped with the Nike Grind rubber outsole, the soles contain at least 5% recycled materials. This gives the bottom of the shoe a speckled-confetti-like look while providing durable traction.
- Unlike the plastic-like footbeds in the previous models, this one has a perforated insole. This new feature lets the foot breathe and drains any unwanted moisture to keep feet dry and sweat-free.
