Nike is revisiting its Lunar New Year origins. For Spring 2026, the brand revives the Air Force 1 Low “Year of the Horse,” the sneaker that launched its zodiac program in 2002. A symbolic return that blends heritage design, premium detailing, and cultural continuity, marking a full 24-year cycle through the Chinese zodiac.
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| Model: Nike Air Force 1 Low Theme: Lunar New Year – Year of the Horse Original Release: 2002 Return: Spring 2026 Materials: Premium white leather with embossed heel details Signature Detail: Horse-shaped lace dubrae Estimated Price: ~$130 Availability: SNKRS app and select global retailers |
First-look images surfaced last month, showing a premium white leather build with embossed detailing around the heel. The design is clean rather than loud, letting the craftsmanship speak for itself. Nike stitched a small red Swoosh directly above the main lateral logo, creating a layered effect that adds depth without cluttering the design. Multicolor stitching accents the back tab, and a metal fixture adorns the top eyelet for an elevated touch.
The shoe’s standout feature is a custom, horse-shaped lace dubrae that anchors the thematic concept. Nike opted for subtlety throughout most of the upper and delivered the zodiac reference through functional hardware that collectors will immediately recognize. The multicolor tongue tag has been compared to the aesthetics of outdoor brands, though official product shots have not yet been released to confirm the final design.
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Nike’s Lunar New Year releases have grown from a single Air Force 1 to a sprawling seasonal collection touching on basketball, running, and lifestyle categories. This program has become what some consider the first major “sneaker holiday” of the year, generating consistent attention from casual buyers and serious collectors alike. 2026 marks the completion of a 24-year cycle, bringing the zodiac back to the horse for only the second time since Nike began the annual tradition.
The Nike Air Force 1 Low “Year of the Horse” will be released in Spring 2026, timed to coincide with the Lunar New Year celebrations expected in mid-February. Although retail pricing hasn’t been officially confirmed, comparable Lunar New Year Air Force 1 releases typically cost around $130. The shoe will be available through the SNKRS app and select global retailers once Nike finalizes its rollout schedule.