Nike’s Air Rift 2 “Kenya” Releases in August
What to know
ClosetKept AI- Air Rift 2 releases August 3, 2026 via Nike SNKRS and select retailers.
- Colorway 'Kenya' features black/dark green mesh with fire red embroidered Swooshes.
- Original 1995 Air Rift inspired by barefoot runners in Kenya's Rift Valley.
- Air Rift 2 uses dual mesh layers and Tabi split-toe design for minimalist aesthetic.
- Price currently unknown; style code IQ8006-002.
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 has slated their first retro releases of the Air Rift 2 to arrive this month on June 25th, 2026. Initially 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
Color: Black/Team Dark Green-Fire Red
Style Code: IQ8006-002
Release Date: August 5th, 2026 (SNKRS)
Price: $125
Check out the official images below, and stay tuned to JustFreshKicks on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook for more of the latest sneaker news, release dates, and restock alerts.
