Ranking Virgil Abloh’s Nike Collaborations

Since Virgil Abloh’s passing in November 2021, his estate has been carefully curating his vast creative output. The Virgil Abloh Archive, holding over 20,000 objects, is the source of these intentional releases. Among them, the collaboration with Nike stands out as the most significant, bringing his unique vision to the public with care and purpose.

The Virgil Abloh Archive: A Living Museum

The Virgil Abloh Archive isn’t just a collection; it’s a mission to keep his groundbreaking ideas alive. Led by his wife, Shannon Abloh, it functions more like a living museum than a commercial brand. Each partnership is chosen deliberately, ensuring that Abloh’s work is shared with the context and intention it deserves.

The partnership with Nike marks the first large-scale public product release from the archive. This collaboration builds upon Abloh’s transformative relationship with Nike, which began with the iconic “The Ten” collection in 2017. The V.A.A. x Nike initiative operates directly through the archive, separate from previous Off-White releases.

Ranking the V.A.A. x Nike Releases

The V.A.A. x Nike collaboration aims to release specific pieces with intention, avoiding market saturation. Here’s a look at the releases so far, ranked by their significance and impact:

1. V.A.A. x Air Jordan 1 High OG “Alaska”

Released globally on April 3, 2026, the “Alaska” marks the archive’s public debut. This V.A.A. edition reimagines the coveted 2018 Off-White x Air Jordan 1 “Euro” colorway. Featuring a white leather upper with light blue overlays, exposed foam tongue, and signature “AIR” midsole text, it carries updated V.A.A. branding. The packaging, inspired by Abloh’s Lot 50 Dunks, and the phrase “MODERNISM IS NOT NEW” encapsulate the partnership’s ethos. It immediately resold for well over its $230 retail price.

2. Off-White x Nike Cryoshot “Virgil Abloh Archives”

A unique entry, the Cryoshot is a soccer cleat reimagined as a lifestyle shoe. Built on the Nike Tiempo framework, it features a white leather upper, red Swoosh, and Abloh’s signature zip tie. Connected to Abloh’s work on Nike Football projects during the 2018 World Cup, this release is set for a summer 2026 debut alongside the FIFA World Cup. It represents the most forward-looking product from the partnership.

3. Virgil Abloh Archive x Nike Air Force 1 Low “Green” Sample

This striking green Air Force 1 sample surfaced during the “Virgil Abloh: The Codes” exhibition in Paris in September 2025. With a pine green leather upper, silver Swoosh, and “V.A.A. for Nike” branding, it represents unfinished business for Abloh, who championed the Air Force 1 silhouette. With only around 200 pairs believed to exist, its official release remains highly anticipated.

4. V.A.A. x Nike “LOGO” Tee

An accessible entry point into the V.A.A. x Nike partnership, this garment-dyed 7.3oz cotton tee is an updated version of Abloh’s 2017 “OFF CAMPUS” tee. It swaps Off-White branding for the V.A.A. logo and features a hand-drawn Nike Swoosh with “LOGO” above it – a classic Abloh touch prompting thought about branding itself. Sewn in Los Angeles and retailing for $70, it’s a simple yet context-rich object.