KAWS’s partnership with Nike spans several high-profile sneaker designs—including the 2008 Air Force 1 and Air Max 90 releases, the landmark Air Jordan 4 collab in 2017, and the 2021 “Wearable Art” Blazer Low series with sacai. Each silhouette became a canvas for his signature motifs.

2008 Nike 1World Sneakers

In 2008, as part of Nike’s global 1World Project, KAWS designed a black suede Air Force 1 Low with tonal stitching and neon “XX” accents, plus glow details under UV light. The project also included Air Max 90s in white and black, each incorporating subtle graphics and fluorescent outsole details (1, 2).

2017 Air Jordan 4 Collaboration

In 2017, KAWS partnered with Jordan Brand to create two Air Jordan 4 colorways: Cool Grey/White and Black. Both featured a premium suede upper, embroidered Companion hands on the heel, a glow-in-the-dark outsole, and the “XX Air” heel branding. The retail price was $350, and they sold out instantly on release (3, 5).

2021 sacai × Nike Blazer Low “Wearable Art”

In 2021, KAWS joined sacai and Nike for the Blazer Low “Wearable Art” collection. Four colorways—Neptune Blue, Team Red, Purple Dusk, and Reed—were released with layered midsoles, double tongues, and the “XX” logo stamped near the heel. The pairs launched through KAWS’s site, sacai, and Nike SNKRS in staggered drops between November and December (6, 7).