The Original Nike Air Kukini “Water” Is Coming Back

Sneaker News July 28, 2022

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Of the many Air Kukini varieties that have come and gone throughout history, few are as instantly recognizable as the “water” colorway. Boasting the ability to feature a full on pattern on the upper, the Kukini was as visually striking as it was practical as it continued Nike’s interest in laceless shoes and living on as one of the quirkiest Nike sneakers in history.

This particular version of the Air Kukini features a watery pattern blending perfectly with the transparent webbing that covers the upper, lending to the fluidity of Sean McDowell’s design. While we mostly remember the Kukini for the Coca-Cola collaborations, there were plenty of original colorways during its initial year in 2000. Over two decades later, the Air Kukini is ready to re-stake its claim in the casual footwear market, but it’s the eccentric nature of the model that will appease both the newer generation and the sticklers for ancient footwear design.

A first release date of the Air Kukini “Water” is expected later this Fall/Winter season.