If there’s one other thing that we know you like collecting apart from retro games, handheld consoles, Pokémon Cards, controllers, vinyls, (the list really is endless…), then it’s trainers. We all need them so that we’re not walking around like Bilbo Baggins all the time, but when it comes to gaming-themed sneakers, the 90s collector kid in us all comes out in full force.
Back in 2006, Nike and Sony launched a PS1-themed range of Air Force 1 Low trainers. They sold like hotcakes and came out in limited numbers (something we’re all too aware of from the likes of Analogue), meaning that they still fetch around $300 on eBay today. A recent rumour claims that they’re heading back to shelves, however, and it’s got our retro senses (and wallets) tingling.
Coming from a non-sneaker head, I don’t really have any comment on the popularity of Air Force 1s in the modern market. Sneakers aren’t my expertise, but consoles are, and what I am interested in is a nostalgic console-themed shoe based on one of our favourite retro machines coming back to the fold. I mean just look at this thing; it’s an absolute beauty and, despite being brought out in the 2000’s, exudes 90s nostalgia.
As discovered on Nice Kicks, there were only 150 pairs of these sneakers ever made. They’re all numbered too so you can brag about their rarity. With a patent leather upper, PS1 logo, baby blue outsole and purple laces, the shoe encapsulates every colour that you might see when turning on an old CRT TV, and I can’t get enough of it.
Obviously, it’s just rumoured to be returning at this stage, but if anything changes, you can be sure that we’ll keep you posted. The game is afoot, and so hopefully are these trainers!
