Nike Air Force 1 PLT.AF.ORM

Air Force 1 PLT.AF.ORM

The Nike Air Force 1 PLT.AF.ORM was created using a new last shape that tapers more towards the toe, giving it a snugger fit. Its most conspicuous characteristic is the boosted midsole which rises as it approaches the heel in two bifurcated layers stacked one on top of the other, providing even more cushioning for increased softness and comfort. A deep groove lies between them with large Air lettering embossed along it, while different sized concentric circle tread patterns in the outsole lend it classic AF1 traction. The seam of stitching around the midsole only covers the toe end of this design, as the extended midsole encompasses where the rest would normally be through the rest of the foot. 

On the upper of the Air Force 1 PLT.AF.ORM, the arrangement of the stitching and the various leather overlays has been altered, with the medial midfoot panel set at the same level as the back section and connected to it via zigzag stitching. Meanwhile, the lateral midfoot panel extends all the way along the top of the swoosh until it meets the heel tab, dividing the quarter in two horizontally. A few broad stitches secure the eyestay to the backfoot segment, which rests up against an extra midfoot overlay that itself slips under the eyestay above. 

On the lateral side, the long, sleek swoosh has been shifted forwards, beginning just behind the toe box before dipping below the line of the midsole and ending short of the heel patch. In contrast, the medial swoosh starts further back, around the midfoot, where it disappears beneath the forefoot leather panel and the heel tab at the rear. Careful stitching indicates where it would continue underneath these layers, while the lengthened tip at the short end of both swooshes moves under the wavy edge of the eyestay, but the stitching holding each one in place maintains the classic shape of the logo. 

As well as these more overt alterations, the Air Force 1 PLT.AF.ORM has a number of creative little touches. Firstly, there is a neat row of stitching a few millimetres from the bottom of the heel tab which leaves a small flap of leather sticking out. Elsewhere, a classy dubrae decorates the bottom of the laces. It carries a simple, elegant rectangular composition across its smooth metal surface, with a tiny swoosh in the top corner. Below it, “AF1” has been stitched into the front of the eyestay. This is characteristic of a selection of characteristic branding elements that cover the AF1 PLT.AF.ORM. “Nike Air” is embroidered on the heel tab and tongue, while the insole honours the release date of the original Air Force 1 through neat text that reads “AF1.EST.1982”. Finally, the toe cap includes a set of tiny perforations in a pyramid pattern which points towards the toe, capping off a sneaker packed with interesting details.