Listen Up Retro Fans! The 1979 Nike Challenger Is Back!
Update 20.07.2020
The Nike Challenger, a shoe that strongly reminds us of the Tailwind and Daybreak, was first released in 1979 and has helped redefine comfort and fit for runners with its innovative zig-zag pattern, variable width and lacing system. The silhouette returns in 2020 and is inspired by an original Challenger order from Blue Ribbon Sports.
"We've been on a great journey with Waffle models in recent years," said Rory Fraser, Nike Senior Global Product Manager. "After the re-release of Tailwind OG, Waffle Racer and Daybreak, we wanted to create a model from the same era with a slightly different upper construction. The Challenger has more splits and panels, so we can play around with material and colour in a slightly new way — and give fans of the classics something different to add to their wardrobes."
While the styling remains true to the original Challenger (note the strikingly effective combination of nylon, suede and mesh on the upper), the heel has been widened for a more comfortable fit. A red-blue colour scheme includes a yellow midsole to deliberately create a traditional look and a cream and sail and black-blue reproduction serve as a new colour scheme for the classic.
When Is the Release of the Nike Challenger?
The Challenger is expected to be released in the summer of 2020 in various colourways. An exact release date is still missing. Of course, we will keep you up to date. The best thing to do is to get our free Grailify app, so we can contact you directly!
A lot of sneakerheads are going to be listening, because the Challenger, a rather unknown shoe, is apparently making a comeback. The popular streetwear brand atmos has now published pictures of two new colourways.
The Challenger is only one year younger than the Air Max Tailwind, which first was released in 1978. Both shoes were originally designed for runners, but now these retro silhouettes clearly belong more in the lifestyle category. At that time, the shoe was a world-first with its mix of different materials on the upper and the legendary waffle outsole. Nowadays, these features no longer shine as technical highlights, but for many sneakerheads, these shoes should certainly awaken a lot of memories.
The first releases of this classic will be pretty clean and quiet considering the colour mixes. So, there will be a black Challenger with white accents and a cream Challenger with black accents. You can combine both styles without any problem.
How Can I Buy the Nike Challenger?
There is no release date at the moment. We are still looking for official Nike photos and this indicates that a further release is probably not yet available. Of course, we will keep you up to date as always.
Pics by @atmos_tokyo