The gap between urban footwear and trail-focused variants is blurring, and among the genre’s most influential proprietors, Nike seems to be the most active. Not only has the brand innovative upon, and introduced, various outdoor sneakers over the past few years, but it’s made a dramatic push for hybridization, gifting once-urban icons with traits and characteristics catered toward the dirt-covered trail. Now, they’ve revealed the ACG Air Zoom AO Hiker.
The Nike ACG Air Zoom AO Hiker is a formidable model that’s been built to adapt, thanks to its amphibious focus. To help the shoe brave the wilderness’ waterways, the brand has introduced a concealed lace system, helping to reduce hang-ups on the trail, a water-draining sole unit inspired by the Kukini 2003, and a Jungle boot-derived exterior that places water repellency at the forefront. When coupled with the brand’s cushioned Zoom Air heel, quick-pull lacing, and durable rubber toe, these traits come together to create one of the most well-rounded sneakers for outdoor traversal. Head to Nike’s press site to learn more about the Air Zoom AO Hiker prior to its release on July 9.
