The Windy City was ravaged by the Great Chicago Fire of October 1871, which destroyed more than 17,000 building and claimed an estimated 300 lives. Over 150 years later, Nike pays tribute to the Chicagoans’ heroic response and rebuilding efforts by narrating the tale in their upcoming “Chicago Pack”.

The pack features the Air Force 1 and the Air Max 1 ’86, two of their most iconic silhouettes, each designed by a different Chicago-based sneaker boutique.

Nike Air Force 1 Low “Chicago”

The tale of the scorching three-day-long fire is told through the Air Force 1 Low, showcasing a color palette inspired by the city’s pre-fire architectural charm. Summit White, Gym Red, and Coconut Milk evoke the city’s iconic limestone and brick buildings.

A cow-print Swoosh on the medial pays homage to the folklore believed began when Mrs. O’Leary’s cow accidentally knocked over a lantern. Distressed leather and a vintage-style midsole lend a pre-aged aesthetic to the shoe, reminiscent of the city’s resilience in the face of tragedy.

Nike Air Max ’86 “Chicago”

The Nike Air Max 1 ’86 features a crisp White, Blue Chill, and Wolf Grey color palette, with a grid-patterned collar and skyline-inspired insole. 3M reflective details, a Sail midsole with visible Air Max heel units, and a blue and black rubber outsole complete the design.

The white represents the city’s fresh start after the tragedy, the blue and grey representing Lake Michigan and the Chicago’s steel and concrete skyline. The grid-patterned collar gives nod to the city’s architectural roots, and the skyline-inspired insole is a reminder of her people’s resilience and determination.

Release details

Both pairs are scheduled to release on 21 October with the Air Max 1 ’86 retailing for US$170 and the Air Force 1 Low retailing for US$145.

In other sneaker-related news, check out the END. x Salomon XT-6 “Porcini”.