Nike and Simon Porte Jacquemus have partnered to reintroduce the Moon Shoe, first designed by Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman for the 1972 U.S. Olympic Track & Field Trials. This new interpretation draws on the original prototype’s history while incorporating elements from Jacquemus’ Parisian design language.
The Moon Shoe began as an experiment in traction and lightness. Bowerman wanted a shoe that could provide grip without unnecessary weight. The solution came from an everyday object: a waffle iron. He poured rubber into its grid to create the sole that gave the prototype its crater-like imprint, a detail that later inspired the name. Although a small batch appeared at the Olympic Trials, the model never went into mass production. Its technology, however, shaped the Oregon Waffle in 1973 and the Waffle Trainer in 1975, the shoe that brought Nike its first widespread success.
Jacquemus first encountered the historic design during a visit to Nike’s archives. The simplicity and minimal construction of the prototype convinced him to create a reinterpretation that would connect past innovation with modern style. His vision took shape as a low-to-the-ground sneaker described as a torpedo form, combining racing heritage with an aesthetic drawn from ballet.
The reimagined model features a ruched nylon upper, a Nike Regrind outsole, and a leather Swoosh. A reinforced heel counter strengthens the construction. Jacquemus branding appears on the tongue, heel, and sock liner, while exclusive co-branded packaging recalls Nike’s early identity as Blue Ribbon Sports.
Three colorways define the commercial release. An Alabaster edition launches exclusively through Jacquemus, while Off Noir and University Red complete the trio. Each version maintains the updated silhouette introduced on the runway during Jacquemus’ Spring 2025 show in Paris.
The collaboration builds on a growing relationship between Nike and Jacquemus. Previous footwear projects included versions of the Air Max 1, J Force 1, and Air Humara. Their partnership extended into the summer 2024 collection and campaign, where Paris and Nike athletes served as the central influences.
The Nike x Jacquemus Moon Shoe arrives September 29 through jacquemus.com. SNKRS and select Nike stores will release pairs beginning October 6.
