Melitta Baumeister's next Nike project has come into focus. Official images of the Melitta Baumeister x Nike Rift Rocker show a dramatic rethink of the Air Rift that keeps the model's trademark split toe while transforming almost everything else, Hypebeast reported.
Made in women's sizing, the shoe comes in two colorways: a distressed black leather version (IQ8101-001) and a Yukon Brown pair (IR3982-200). Both are slated for holiday 2026, with pricing still to be confirmed.
Closed up and lifted
The most obvious change is up top. The Air Rift usually leaves the forefoot open, but Baumeister adds a full tongue and conventional laces, giving the split toe a more enclosed, sneaker-like fit. The layered construction and crossing straps of the original remain, with raised stitched Swooshes near the toe and Baumeister branding at the tip of the main strap.
Below, an oversized rocker sole changes the whole silhouette. Swoosh shapes are pressed deep into the outer sidewall, the heel and inner side are carved into sculpted cutaways, and a waffle-style tread provides grip. A small detail at the back echoes the strap ends on the upper.
Hidden details
Baumeister's eye graphic appears on the heel and insoles, next to a footprint illustration and the words "Think Outside." Under the tongue, the phrase "You Bring The Body, We Bring The Shape" sits beside a banana graphic with a Swoosh inside, a motif tied to accessories from her own label.
The shoe debuted at Nike's "Molded by Dedication" showcase and follows Baumeister's earlier collaborations with the brand on a distressed Vomero Premium and the Pegasus Plus.
Reporting sources: Hypebeast, “Official Images Reveal the Melitta Baumeister x Nike Rift Rocker’s Laced-Up Split Toe”.