Side Kicks Streetwear • Global Release Guide
Updated: 6 January 2026
Nike Air Force 1 & Dunk Low Year of the Horse - Release Date, Price & Where to Buy
Overview
Nike is kicking off 2026 with its latest Lunar New Year collection, returning to the Year of the Horse for the third time in the brand’s history. Leading the drop are two of Nike Sportswear’s most important lifestyle silhouettes, the Nike Air Force 1 and the Nike Dunk Low, both dressed in detailed, story driven designs that lean heavily into heritage and craftsmanship.
Chinese New Year has become one of Nike’s most consistent annual themes since its first zodiac inspired release back in 2002. While early collections focused mainly on colour, modern Lunar New Year drops are far more intricate, using embroidery, textured overlays, and symbolic graphics to reflect each animal of the Chinese zodiac.
For 2026, Nike keeps things refined. Soft Phantom, Sail, Linen, and earth tone palettes form the base, while flying horse and Pegasus imagery appears across both models in subtle, premium ways rather than bold statement branding.
Nike Air Force 1 & Dunk Low “Year of the Horse” TL;DR
- Release date: January 9, 2026 (some pairs may land later in Spring)
- Models: Nike Air Force 1 Low, Nike Dunk Low
- Air Force 1 SKU: IQ1119-011
- Dunk Low SKU: IQ1118-220
- Theme: Lunar New Year 2026, Year of the Horse
- Key colours: Phantom, Sail, Linen, Neutral Olive, Dark Hazel, Team Crimson
- Retail price: £110 / £125
- Where to buy: Nike and select retailers • resale at Side Kicks
Design and details
The Nike Air Force 1 Low Year of the Horse takes a clean, premium approach. A Phantom and Sail leather upper forms the base, while the heel panels feature intricate embossed and embroidered patterns inspired by traditional Lunar New Year textiles. A small red Swoosh is stitched over the main lateral Swoosh, adding a controlled hit of colour without overpowering the design.
Additional details include multicolour stitching around the heel, a winged horse metal lace dubrae, and a tongue label depicting a desert landscape where horses traditionally roam. The result feels ceremonial rather than flashy, aligning more with heritage releases than trend driven drops.
The Nike Dunk Low Year of the Horse leans further into texture and earth tones. Linen, Phantom, Neutral Olive, and Dark Hazel are layered across suede and leather panels, while the heel becomes the focal point with ornate embroidery and Pegasus inspired graphics. A dark brown Swoosh is overlapped by a smaller crimson red Swoosh, tying into the Fire Horse symbolism associated with 2026.
Air Force 1 Year of the Horse
Dunk Low Year of the Horse
Embroidery, Pegasus imagery, and metal lace details across the Air Force 1 and Dunk Low
Why the Year of the Horse matters to Nike
Nike’s connection to the Chinese zodiac dates back to 2002, when the brand released its first Year of the Horse Air Force 1. Since then, Lunar New Year collections have grown into one of Nike’s most anticipated annual moments, often setting the tone for the year ahead.
The horse symbolises strength, motion, and progress, qualities Nike has consistently aligned with its brand identity. In 2026, the return of the Horse feels deliberate, marking Nike’s second full rotation through the zodiac and reinforcing the importance of craftsmanship and storytelling over hype.
FAQ
When do the Nike Year of the Horse sneakers release?
The Air Force 1 and Dunk Low Year of the Horse are expected to release on January 9, 2026, with some pairs arriving later in Spring.
Which models are included in Nike’s Year of the Horse collection?
The collection includes the Nike Air Force 1 Low and Nike Dunk Low, with additional silhouettes like P6000s, Ja 3, and Kobe Proto 8 are expected outside this core drop.
Will the Nike Year of the Horse sneakers release in the UK?
Yes. The Air Force 1 and Dunk Low Year of the Horse are expected to release in the UK via Nike and select retailers.
Where can I buy the Nike Air Force 1 and Dunk Low Year of the Horse?
Pairs will be available via Nike and select retailers, with resale options available at Side Kicks.
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