Side Kicks Streetwear • Global Release Guide
Updated: 9 January 2026
Overview
The first proper footwear drop from NikeSKIMS lands with a model that was already trending before Kim Kardashian got involved. The Nike Air Rift has been creeping back into rotation thanks to the slim trainer and ballet shoe wave, and the NikeSKIMS update leans into that lane even harder.
This guide focuses on the two most wearable pairs from the first Mesh Pack rollout: Black and Velvet Brown. Both keep the palette minimal, but the construction is the bigger story here, a stripped back, near barefoot take on the Rift with NikeSKIMS branding worked into the details.
NikeSKIMS Air Rift Mesh Pack TL;DR
- Release date: 26 January 2026 (initial rollout)
- Model: NikeSKIMS Air Rift Mesh
- Featured colourways: Black and Velvet Brown
- Style codes: IO7694-001 (Black), IO7694-200 (Velvet Brown)
- Retail price: £120 (UK, expected) / $150 USD
- Where to buy: Nike SNKRS, SKIMS, and select retailers • resale at Side Kicks
Design and details
The NikeSKIMS Air Rift Mesh Pack takes the 1996 split toe idea and pushes it into a cleaner, more fashion led direction. Compared to a typical Air Rift, this version looks slimmer underfoot and more minimal up top, with a single piece mesh construction and taped overlays keeping the shape structured without bulky panels.
Branding is subtle but consistent. NikeSKIMS hits appear on the strap, and the outsole tread includes an S shaped pattern that ties back to SKIMS without turning the shoe into a billboard. It is the kind of detail you notice more when you are holding the pair than when you are scrolling product shots.
Colourwise, Black is the safest pick if you want maximum wearability. Velvet Brown is darker and richer, but still neutral enough to work with everyday fits. Both are aimed at that soft sporty lane, think tonal sets, oversized layers, and simple accessories, where the silhouette does the talking.
NikeSKIMS Air Rift Mesh Black
The Black pair keeps everything tonal, including the strap branding and the outsole. If you are unsure about the split toe look, this is the easiest way into it, because it reads more like a modern Mary Jane trainer than a statement piece.
NikeSKIMS Air Rift Mesh Velvet Brown
Velvet Brown leans into the SKIMS palette properly. It is still minimal, but the warmer brown tones make the mesh and overlays stand out more, which gives the shoe a slightly more styled feel than the all black pair.
Closer look
Credit: Nike official images
Why the Air Rift is the right first shoe for NikeSKIMS
The Air Rift has always sat in a weird sweet spot. It started life as a performance runner inspired by barefoot running in Kenya, but it also looks like something that belongs in a fashion capsule. That makes it a logical pick for NikeSKIMS, where the goal is sporty function but body led styling.
Nike also does not need to explain the split toe anymore. People already know what it is, and that is the point. If you love it, this feels like a cleaner, more refined version. If you hate it, the Black pair is probably the one that might change your mind.
Where to buy
Expect the Nike Skims Air Rift Mesh Pack to release through Nike SNKRS, SKIMS, and select retailers. If UK stock lands later than the initial rollout, we will see it appear first on Nike channels and a small group of fashion leaning retailers.
If you miss at retail, resale pairs will be available through Side Kicks once pairs start circulating.
FAQ
When is the NikeSKIMS Air Rift Mesh Pack releasing?
The first Mesh Pack colourways are scheduled for 26 January 2026, with UK availability expected to follow.
How much will the NikeSKIMS Air Rift Mesh cost in the UK?
UK pricing is expected to be £120.
What are the style codes for the Black and Velvet Brown pairs?
Black is IO7694-001 and Velvet Brown is IO7694-200.
Where can I buy NikeSKIMS Air Rift Mesh in the UK?
Look for Nike SNKRS, SKIMS, and select retailers. Resale will be available at Side Kicks.
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