In the world of sneakers, there are iconic designs that withstand the test of time. One such design is the Nike Air Pegasus 2005. While it may no longer hold the crown as Nike’s premier running shoe (that honor now belongs to the Nike AlphaFly 3), it embodies the irresistible “Y2K aesthetic” too perfectly to be ignored.
Recently, this 18-year-old classic made a subtle comeback through a collaboration with the enigmatic COMME des GARÇONS HOMME PLUS. This partnership didn’t receive the same widespread attention as other collaborations from Rei Kawakubo’s label, but it quietly hinted at a full-blown retro revival for the 15th edition of Nike’s “workhorse with wings.”
The Pegasus 2005 made its debut in the mid-2000s, staying true to its heritage by resembling its predecessors from 2002 rather than the 2004 model. With its sleek design and all-over perforated build, this sneaker delivered the performance that runners had come to expect from the esteemed Nike Air Pegasus line since its inception in 1983.
Featuring full-length Air units, this shoe offered a smooth and cushioned ride, enhanced by the addition of a softer lateral crash pad. Mesh bases provided not only breathability but also kept the shoe lightweight. Reflective accents on the forefoot and heel enabled athletes like Olympic gold medalist Bernard Lagat to train even in low-light conditions.
Now, as part of the SNKRS Showcase, the Pegasus 2005 is set to make a comeback in a range of original and new colorways throughout 2024. Nike is also introducing a modern rendition called Pegasus Wave, which closely resembles the Peg 2k5 but with a neoprene-like material instead of mesh in the upper. It’s a nod to the past with a contemporary twist.
Some may find it peculiar that Nike is reviving an 18-year-old running sneaker when the brand is known for pushing the boundaries of innovation. However, this move makes perfect business sense. In recent years, competitors have gained traction in the market and on social media with their cushioned mesh designs harkening back to earlier eras. Nike’s current Pegasus model may have a more streamlined aesthetic, but it carries a lineage that resonates with today’s consumers. And let’s not forget the success of the Nike Zoom Vomero 5, a retro running shoe from 2010 that set the stage for comfortable and stylish models to thrive.
Consumer interests can change quickly, but Nike is ready to tap into its extensive archive and meet the demands of the moment with the reissue of the Pegasus 2005. Keep an eye out for release details on nike.com, and in the meantime, satisfy your sneaker cravings with the Air Jordan 4 “Olive.”
Images:
Nike Pegasus 2k5 Fall 2024
Nike Pegasus Wave Fall 2024
[Source: Sneaker News]