Photo: Getty Images
When Kanye West’s first sneaker collaboration with Nike launched in 2009, it marked the first time the brand had worked with a non-athlete. The Air Yeezy, as the result was called—after West’s nickname—became one of the brand’s most sought-after shoes that year, selling for over $1,000 on eBay (the original price tag was $220). “I’ve been designing Nikes in my sketch pad since the fourth grade,” West said at the time.
Since, West has launched a high-fashion line, complete with shoes that are priced at well over $1,000. But he’s returning to his sneakerhead roots: the limited-edition Nike Air Yeezy II—which features hieroglyphics spelling out “YZY” across the front—launches June 9 at select global Nike retailers. Jay-Z’s already got a pair, but this shoe is really all about ‘Ye: it’s tailored to his foot.
See the shoe—and the sketch—after the cut.
The sketch. Photo: Nike
The final product. Photo: Nike