Nike’s Most Polarizing Collection Debuts a Minimalist, Streetwear-Inspired Shoe

The first footwear release from the ongoing Nike x Skims partnership is an exercise in streamlined restraint and unique design.

Close-up of three Nike slip-on shoes in black, dark brown, and light brown with mesh panels and a strap across the top.

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By Hayley Helms

Published January 14, 2026

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Updated January 14, 2026

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Whether you’re into it or not, one thing is for certain: the ongoing partnership between Nike and Kim Kardashian’s shapewear brand Skims turns heads with every drop, and its latest release is no different.

The first-ever footwear to come from the ongoing collaboration, the NikeSkims Rift Mesh seamlessly blends both brands’ aesthetics to deliver a shoe very much of its time.

Brown Nike split-toe Mary Jane shoe with mesh panels and a Velcro strap on a beige background. — The Archaeo Brown colorway channels Skims’s neutral color palette.

Dividing style

The NikeSkims Rift Mesh draws on an archival Nike silhouette, the 1996 split-toe Air Rift athletic shoe — a divisive (pardon the pun) shoe in its own right.

Close-up of a dark brown sandal with a split-toe design and mesh fabric upper. — The new Rift Mesh is a barely-there version of the archival design.

The new version, set to release later this month, sees updates in both materials and aesthetics. Available in three tonal colorways (black, brown and tan), the Rift Mesh channels the Skims look while adding in Nike innovation.

A new mesh, meant more for athleisure than athletics, maintains the minimal vibe of the shoe.

Nike

Material upgrades come in the form of no-sew construction, a more plush heel counter for increased comfort, a luxe mesh designed for everyday wear, custom “S” logo nubs on the outsole and a collaborative NikeSkims logo stamped on the midfoot strap.

Close-up of brown split-toe shoes showing textured mesh upper and rubber sole with small circular grips. — The “S” lugs on the outsole are a nod to the ongoing partnership between the two brands.

In line with the barely-there Skims ethos, the Rift Mesh strips the Nike style down to its most minimal while maintaining the split-toe construction that made the shoe famous in the first place.

Availability and pricing

The NikeSkims Rift Mesh will be available in unisex sizing starting January 26th on Nike’s official website, as well as Skims and select retailers in-store and online, retailing for $150.

Brown minimalist barefoot shoe with textured sole and adjustable strap across the top.

NikeSkims Rift Mesh

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About the Author: Hayley Helms is an associate editor at Gear Patrol specializing in outdoor gear. Once upon a time, she wrote for Men’s Journal, Gearjunkie and Shape. Whether it’s testing a new rain shell or putting a pair of hiking boots through its paces, she leaves no stone unturned (however, she always Leaves No Trace).

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