Introduced in 1982, designed by Nike’s Bruce Kilgore, the “NIKE AIR FORCE 1” first appeared on the court as the first basketball shoe to incorporate Nike Air technology, featuring a revolutionary cushioning system in the midsole. It soon transcended the realm of sports to become an icon of street culture. Across eras and genres, it has served as an excellent canvas for various creators.

 

The encounter between AIR FORCE 1 and BE@RBRICK, born in 2001, dates back over 20 years. First, the “AIR FORCE 1 BE@RBRICK (10-piece set)” was released exclusively online in 2004. Then, in 2011, the year of BE@RBRICK's 10th anniversary, the “NIKE AIR FORCE 1 PREMIUM (BE@RBRICK ver.)” was released. In 2012, the 30th anniversary of AIR FORCE 1, the “NIKE × BE@RBRICK LUNAR FORCE 1 (WHITE/BLACK)” and “LUNAR FORCE 1 BE@RBRICK 100% & 400%” were introduced.

 

Fourteen years later, this collaboration, realized in 2026 as MEDICOM TOY celebrates its 30th anniversary, is a fitting tribute. The “NIKE AIR FORCE 1 QS,” featuring long-haired pony hair on the upper and gleaming gold, is truly a pair worthy of celebrating an anniversary. Furthermore, next year marks the 45th anniversary of AIR FORCE 1. The “BE@RBRICK NIKE AIR FORCE 1 COSTUME Ver. 400% / 1000%,” donning a silver-plated body and a hooded parka and pants designed to resemble ears, will also be released.

 

By layering the playfulness cultivated through its encounters with BE@RBRICK onto the timeless silhouette that has been loved for over 40 years, AIR FORCE 1 takes on a fresh expression. This is a wonderful collaborative item that allows us to fully enjoy the history of both, as they have effortlessly crossed boundaries from sports to street, and from toys to art.