Nike Air Force
Nike x Off-White Air Force 1 Low ‘The Ten’ Review: Where Design Deconstruction Meets Cultural Legacy
Introduction
The Nike x Off-White Air Force 1 Low ‘The Ten’ is more than just a sneaker—it’s a pivotal moment in streetwear and sneaker culture. Released in 2017 as part of Virgil Abloh’s groundbreaking “The Ten” collection, this shoe reimagines one of Nike’s most classic silhouettes through a lens of design deconstruction, innovation, and bold authenticity.
With raw edge finishes, quoted text, and transparent layering, this model launched the era of Off-White x Nike collaborations and became a benchmark for what stylish sneakers could be in the modern age.
Design: Deconstruction as Art
The Air Force 1 Low in ‘The Ten’ collection showcases Virgil Abloh’s unique design language—raw, industrial, and intellectual—while preserving the DNA of the iconic AF1.
Key Design Elements:
- White leather and translucent textile upper for layered visual depth
- Exposed stitching and unfinished tongue for a raw aesthetic
- “AIR” branding printed in bold Helvetica on the midsole
- Signature zip-tie tag in red and side-panel “SHOELACES” text
- Deconstructed Swoosh stitched on the lateral side
- Nike branding overlays slightly off-position, creating visual disruption
It’s part fashion, part rebellion, and all Off-White. A museum-worthy piece you can actually wear.
Materials & Build
Abloh’s remix doesn’t sacrifice quality for concept—Nike ensured that craftsmanship and materials met the premium expectations of high-end collaborations.
- High-grade leather combines with mesh and synthetics for a layered, modern construction
- Foam tongue left exposed as a nod to prototyping aesthetics
- Sturdy rubber sole retains the comfort and support the AF1 is known for
- Small industrial details like micro-stitching and code labeling elevate the design
The result is a shoe that’s just as solid in hand as it is striking on foot.
Comfort & Fit
Despite the experimental visuals, comfort wasn’t compromised in this iteration of the AF1.
Fit Notes:
- True to size, with a roomy toe box typical of the AF1 silhouette
- Padded collar and tongue ensure all-day wearability
- Classic Air cushioning in the midsole retains the AF1’s original comfort DNA
- Lightweight feel for its category, aided by mesh panel integration
You can wear them like a regular pair of Nike shoes, but you’ll feel like you’re stepping into something far more iconic.
Who Should Buy This?
The Nike x Off-White Air Force 1 Low ‘The Ten’ is tailor-made for:
- Sneaker collectors who value cultural milestones
- Fans of Virgil Abloh and Off-White’s influential design language
- Streetwear lovers seeking fashionable sneakers with lasting impact
- Nike enthusiasts looking to own a piece of modern sneaker history
- Anyone who appreciates deconstructed design in footwear form
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Iconic collaboration between Nike and Off-White | Extremely limited release—high resale value |
| Unique, raw, and disruptive design aesthetic | May not suit minimal or classic fashion tastes |
| Retains Air Force 1 comfort with premium construction | Materials can scuff or yellow over time if not stored well |
| Instantly recognizable among sneakerheads and collectors | Zip tie and detailing may feel excessive for some users |
Styling & Street Cred
This isn’t just a sneaker—it’s a conversation starter. Whether you’re styling for a shoot, hitting a fashion show, or stepping out with intent, it makes an unforgettable impact.
Styling Tips:
- Pair with cropped pants or tapered denim to show off the details
- Let the shoes speak by keeping the outfit minimal—think white tees or monochrome fits
- For streetwear flair, match with Off-White apparel or bold accessories
- Display proudly in collections, sneaker walls, or content shoots
If you’re into men’s sneakers that blend hype, history, and high-concept design—this is the pair.
Where to Buy
Since this shoe originally released in 2017, it’s no longer available at retail—but you can still secure a pair through reputable marketplaces:
- TheenStyle – A trusted platform to find rare and authentic Nike shoes
- StockX – Verified resale with transparent pricing trends
- GOAT – New and used options with condition-based filtering
Expect premium pricing—but also unmatched streetwear credibility.
Final Verdict
The Nike x Off-White Air Force 1 Low ‘The Ten’ is a certified classic. It’s the shoe that changed the game, not just for Nike or Off-White, but for the entire sneaker and fashion industry.
With its raw, intellectual approach to design and its role in launching one of the most iconic collaborations of the decade, this sneaker earns its place as both fashion icon and cultural artifact. Whether worn or displayed, it’s a piece of art with sole.
Dare to wear the blueprint of the future—Virgil would’ve wanted it that way.