Even though it’s a relative newcomer in the world of sneakers, the Nike Book 1 – Devin Booker’s first signature sneaker, has already been spotted in various intriguing colour schemes, many reverberating the iconic colourways of yesteryears. For instance, the “Cool Grey” edition draws its inspiration from a much-adored non-OG Jordan, the Air Jordan 11 “Cool Grey”, initially launched in 2001. Let’s not overlook the design characterised by grey, black, and bright green hues, reminiscent of the Air Max 95 “Neon”. Booker even boasts a version of his signature shoe that pays homage to the Air Jordan 1 “Shattered Backboard.” However, Allen Joshua Llaguno, a talented sneaker customisation artist from aj.custom kicks, has proposed yet another iconic colourway that we would love to see incorporated into the Nike Book 1 range – a vibrant fusion of red, white, and black, inspired by the much-loved AJ 1 “Chicago.”
The Beloved “Chicago” Colourway
Let’s be honest; there’s no need for us to get into a long-winded introduction for the “Chicago” colourway. This white, red and black trio has been right at the heart of the sneaker scene since it first graced the Air Jordan 1 back in 1985. Unsurprisingly, its immense appeal hasn’t waned in the slightest, and it has seen countless reincarnations throughout the years.
Regardless of whether it’s adopted by a different model like the Air Jordan 2 or the Nike SB Dunk Low, or whether it’s been reinterpreted through exclusive AJ 1 collaborations like those by Off-White and Trophy Room, this prized colourway has proven its versatility. It doesn’t matter where it appears; the “Chicago” colourway never fails to capture our admiration. It’s a timeless classic that looks good on everyone and any model.
Needless to say, getting another taste of this famed colourway on Devin Booker’s signature shoe is a treat we can all appreciate. This custom sneaker nicely tips the hat to Devin Booker’s ongoing tradition of using popular colourways to dress his sneaker designs. Plus, the artist behind these kicks has done a fantastic job in incorporating the classic colours into the intriguing silhouette.
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The Sneaker Design
With the Nike Book 1 “Mirage” as his base pair and Angelus Direct Paints as his medium, we believe Llaguno has successfully translated the “Chicago” colourway onto Booker’s signature shoe.
To begin with, the base colour of the sneaker is a clean, crisp white. The toe box sports a smooth leather finish in this subtle white hue, while the quarter panels switch up texture with a canvas fabric.
From this point, striking red leather serves to emphasise the toe cap, eyestays, and heel counter, making a bold statement against its white backdrop. Lastly, black accents on the Swoosh, laces, book-spine-inspired pull tabs, and micro-perforated suede collar bring the classic Chicago-centric colourway into full swing.
All the aforementioned design elements sit beautifully atop a clean white sole unit, creating the perfect finish for this Chicago-inspired colour scheme. This design is a testament to the timeless appeal of the white, red and black combo and how wonderfully they can enhance any sneaker model. In fact, I think I need to see more sneakers wearing the colour scheme.
How to Grab Your Custom Pair
Even though the Nike Book 1 “Chicago” was custom-made for pro basketball sensation Jamie Malonzo, who plays for Barangay Ginebra San Miguel in the Philippine Basketball Association (yes, he actually sported these during a match against Meralco Bolts), you may have a chance to own a similar pair too.
All you need to do is get in touch with the gifted sneaker artist Allen Joshua Llaguno through his Instagram account and request a similar design. In the meantime, keep following us at Sneaker Fortress to stay tuned to more customised designs and concepts inspired by popular sneaker colourways. Which would you like to see next?
RELATED: Nike Book 1 Mirage Is Super Clean
What do you think of the Nike Book 1 “Chicago”? Would you wear this colourway of Devin Booker’s signature shoe?
