Nike Cancels "Puerto Rico" Air Force 1 Following Intense Backlash

BYAlexander Cole3.8K Views
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Nike Air Force 1
Nike mistook Panamanian culture for Puerto Rican culture

Last week, we reported on the Nike Air Force 1 Low "Puerto Rico" which was set to release in June. Immediately after Nike announced the shoe, the internet erupted in outrage and for good reason. It was pointed out by many in the Puerto Rican and Panamanian communities that the graphics on the side of the shoe was actually a "Mola" which is an art form in Panama and not Puerto Rico. A petition was launched to cancel the shoe, while avid sneakerhead DJ Clark Kent took to Instagram to educate people on what a "Mola" is.

This is called a “Mola” It is a Panamanian art form," DJ Clark Kent explained. "You can find it anywhere in my home country, PANAMA. Respectfully, This is not a part of Puerto Rico’s rich culture. Though we are both Spanish speaking people, we have different traditions, art & cultural expressions. When celebrating one, please do proper research. These things should not be confused."

In the aftermath of these criticisms, Nike has officially canceled the launch of the shoe. A spokesperson for the company spoke to Sole Collector, saying "We apologize for the inaccurate representation of the design origin for the Nike Air Force 1 'Puerto Rico' 2019. As a result, this product will no longer be available."

Once again, the power of the internet reigns supreme.


About The Author
Alexander Cole is the current Managing Editor of HotNewHipHop. He started at HotNewHipHop back in 2018 where he began as a Sports and Sneakers writer. During this time, he has shown an expertise in Air Jordans, Yeezys, and all things that have to do with Nike. His favorite kicks are the Air Jordan 1 High OG, the Air Jordan 4, the Air Jordan 6, and the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 in the "Beluga 2.0" colorway. Although his collection might not be the biggest, he is always looking to add new styles to it. When it comes to sports, Alex has a particular interest in the NBA and the NFL. His favorite teams are anywhere LeBron goes, and the Kansas City Chiefs. As a Montrealer, the Montreal Canadiens hold a special place in his heart, even if they haven't won the Stanley Cup in his lifetime. Alex also works for the Concordia Stingers, where he provides play-by-play and color commentary for the football, hockey, and basketball teams His favorite hip-hop artists are Kendrick Lamar, Playboi Carti, Travis Scott, and Lil Uzi Vert.
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