Nike’s Latest Retro Running Shoe Revival May Be Its Next Viral Sensation

It’s likely to have the crossover appeal of the Vomero 5 or Total 90.

Close-up of a black and white sneaker with mesh upper and textured sole.

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By Ethan Brehm

Published 3 hours ago

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Nike has found some serious success lately in reviving its Y2K-era sneakers.

With triumphant returns of the Vomero 5 and the Total 90, or even once-divisive Shox TL and Shox R4 runners, the Swoosh has certainly figured out what works with the modern consumer. Unapologetically technical shoes are now quite fashionable, and those of us who passed up on these retro silhouettes are more than happy to give them a second chance decades later.

Pair of white and black Nike sneakers viewed from the back showing mesh upper and segmented sole. — Nike’s 2008 running shoe, the Zoom Skylon 11, is a cult-favorite that’s returning this year.

But for its latest comeback, Nike looks to a lesser-known trainer that you may (or may not) remember.

White and black Nike Zoom running shoe with mesh upper and segmented sole. — The 11th-gen model was the final iteration in the Skylon family when it ended nearly two decades ago.

Black and white rubber outsole of a running shoe with segmented tread pattern and "Zoom" branding. — The Skylon 11 is likely to become the next runner-turned-lifestyle sneaker, following in the Vomero 5’s footsteps.

A long-lost classic

Debuting in 2008, the Zoom Skylon 11 was the final iteration of the long-running series (née Air Skylon) that started in the early ‘90s.

Not nearly as popular as the Vomero or Shox lines — or even the familial Air Skylon 2 from 1992 — the Skylon 11 was nevertheless a cult favorite of the ‘00s. Yet, from an aesthetic standpoint, the reissue doesn’t feel like nearly as big of a swing as it should be.

Pair of white and black Nike Skylon II sneakers viewed from above on a light background. — The large honeycomb mesh upper is accented with silver and black synthetic overlays.

Fitting in well with the performance-meets-dadcore heyday we’re currently living in, the Skylon 11 showcases its tech well. The larger honeycomb mesh footprint contributes to the lightweight and breathable fit. It’s overlaid with a swooping pattern made from synthetic material.

Unlike the max cushion monsters we’ve been seeing in recent years, the Skylon 11 sits relatively low and is expectedly flexible. Zoom Air units cushion the midsoles just like the original.

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A new dad shoe favorite?

The Skylon 11 surfaced in a Volt colorway a few months back, but now we’re seeing it in white. This variant has decidedly more crossover potential, not unlike what we’ve seen with the Vomero 5. Considering current trends, you shouldn’t be surprised to this running shoe worn as a lifestyle sneaker.

Close-up of a white and black Nike Skylon II sneaker with mesh upper and detailed lacing. — The white-and-black variant is much more versatile for everyday wear than the Volt colorway already unveiled.

The canvas is accented in black on the overlays and tongue. Meanwhile, glossy silver is given to the toe cap and eyestays. The Swoosh on the side shows up in black with a silver border. Underfoot, a white sole completes the look with an aggressive slotted design.

Availability and pricing

Expected to land this fall in a handful of colorways, the Zoom Skylon 11 will have a price tag of $135 from Nike’s website.

White and black Nike running shoe with mesh upper and segmented sole on a light background.

Nike Zoom Skylon 11 Revival

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About the Author: Ethan Brehm is an associate editor at Gear Patrol writing about footwear, watches, spirits, EDC and more. When he’s not shopping for his next G-Shock, he spends his time watching movies and planning a future road trip with his family. He firmly believes CDs sound better than vinyl.

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