Key Details
Style Code: IQ8006-002
- The Nike Air Rift 2 "Kenya" honors the original Rift's inspiration with black, dark green, and Fire Red colors from Kenya's flag.
- The Air Rift 2 debuted in 2002 as a streamlined successor to the 1995 original, which featured a Tabi split-toe design for barefoot runners.
- The pair uses two types of mesh across its upper with embroidered Fire Red Swooshes positioned on the outer toes.
Nike’s revival of the Air Rift landed in 2023, helping lead the trend of slim, retro sneaker styles. Now, the Swoosh has teased the return of the Air Rift 2, the cleaner, more streamlined successor.
The Air Rift was originally designed by Nike for their 1995 running line. The running shoe was inspired by barefoot runners in Kenya, and named after the country’s Rift Valley where these runners train. The shoe itself used a Tabi split toe design, with a sole made to mimic the sensation of barefoot running, adding a little extra cushioning and support. The Rift became a popular Summer shoe thanks to its open, airy construction, and has become a cult classic in the thirty-plus years since its launch. In 2023, Nike revived the Air Rift for their women’s line, leaning into the growing super slim sneaker trend which we are still in the midst of.
This week, Nike released the second installment in their SNKRS Verified content series, showing upcoming releases and ditching the live video showcases from prior years. Among this week’s batch of unveilings was the Air Rift 2, the successor to the OG 1995 style that debuted in 2002. The new retro was shown in a simple color scheme dubbed “Kenya”, a nod to the country’s black, green, and red flag. This pair of the Air Rift 2 features two kinds of mesh in its upper, using dark green for the base layer and black for the side panel overlays. Tiny embroidered Swooshes hit the outer toes, using Fire Red stitching to complete this nod to the Rift’s original inspiration.
NIKE AIR RIFT 2 “KENYA” RELEASE INFORMATION
Nike’s reveal of the upcoming Air Rift 2 silhouette did not come with a set release date, but we expect the lightweight, airy runner to land in time for Summer 2026. Shown via their new SNKRS Verified content series, the colorway showcased features a mix of black and dark green with bold red Swooshes. Pairs will be available through both Nike and select retailers. Pricing is currently unknown.
Nike Air Rift 2 “Kenya”
Color: Black/Team Dark Green-Fire Red
Style Code: IQ8006-002
Release Date: 2026
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