Nike will officially drop their duo of Shox R4 Neymar JR sneakers on May 30 as the latest signature streetwear series arrives in a choice of two colourways. Inspired by the Brazilian forward's childhood relationship with the Swoosh, both designs feature dual Neymar and Nike branding.
After a few months of teasing the upcoming launch including appearances on the feet of Drake at one his Vegas shows, and of course Neymar himself stepping out in them as PSG wrapped up the Ligue 1 title earlier in the spring. "They were like a shoe of the future," recalls Neymar. For him, the Shox R4 was the shoe he desired growing up, and now he's got two signature designs that feature his own name and logo. Just like that.
The Shox line was one of the most hyped Nike series at the turn of the millennium when Neymar was growing up, but has had a relatively low-key presence since its retro revival. Now, Nike look to throw the Shox onto the main stage as they position the PSG striker as a player who can influence the younger audience and thrive in a streetwear scene that Cristiano Ronaldo, who was their key man for so long, didn't quiet hit as naturally as Neymar does.
The first colourway is the standout from the pack as it mirrors the hues of a watermelon; the vibrant gradient design connects directly to the buzzing markets around São Paulo that were a constant in Neymar JR's childhood. The second colourway follows on the metallic detailing and reflective elements of the launch colorway back in 2000 and still packs that sci-fi aesthetic and aggressive stance.
Both designs include the trademark "Shock Absorber" elements under the heel to celebrate one of Nike's most iconic streetwear silhouettes, while the "Shox" logo is tilted to create the 'N' as a further call-out to the PSG striker.
Shop both Neymar Nike Shox R4 colourway at prodirectselect.com from 8am BST on May 30.
