2009 Nike Air Yeezy 1 ‘Blink’ Phosphorescent High-top Sneakers
Measurements & Condition
Size - 8.5 US
Condition 8/10
Back in 2009, rapper Kanye West released his first namesake shoe titled the ‘Nike Air Yeezy’. Retailing at $250, the long awaited sneaker sold out within minutes after two years of sampling and production. In contrast to the final iteration, original sketches would feature LED lights embedded into the outsole, a ‘Y-Print’ toe box and so-called ‘Death Star’ circular tooling. Low battery life and cost evaluation prompted Nike to research phosphorescent (glow in the dark) rubber, giving the silhouette it’s iconic green hue. Three colour ways began rolling out on Nike.com as of April 4th, 2009, beginning with ‘Zen Grey’, then ‘Blink’ on the following month, and finally the ‘Net’. With such success, Nike would team up with West once again in 2014 to release the Nike Air Yeezy II in quantities of 5000. Sparking such critical acclaim, West demanded 5% royalties akin to their athletic contracts, but was ultimately denied. As a result, the rapper disbanded from Nike, singing to their rival, Adidas for a reported $10 million. In a Hot 97 interview, Kanye West stated “Nike told me, ‘We can’t give you royalties because you’re not a professional athlete.’ I told them, ‘I go to the Garden and play one-on-no one. I’m a performance athlete.”
The Nike Air Yeezy is undoubtedly a hallmark in the realm of both fashion and music. Not only do the shoes retain an unprecedented stature, but their history and innovative design cement Kanye West as a revolutionary creative. Showcased, is the second of the three original colour ways, known as the ‘Blink’ model. Featuring a ‘Y-Print’ monogram velcro strap and upper, hot pink accents run along the tongue. Complete with a suede toe box and embossed Nike swoosh, “YEEZY” spell out lettering is embroidered on the pull tab as well. Finalized with a rubber phosphorescent sole, these sneakers glow vibrantly in low light, demonstrating the life each sneaker retains a decade later. In great condition throughout, without any sole separation, tagged as a size US 8.5.