Widely coveted, tragically discontinued, and then revived to much rejoicing, the Nike Killshot is a famous tennis shoe that’s more than transcended the court. The original Killshot was introduced more than 30 years ago. With a cult following among sneakerheads and numerous threads on menswear forums like Reddit's MaleFashionAdvice dedicated to everything from where to score a pair to advice on acceptable alternatives, the Killshot sold on eBay for 2-3 times the original price after it was discontinued.
Then in 2009, J.Crew's head menswear designer Frank Muytjens brought it back as the Killshot 2. An instant favorite of collectors and casual fans alike, it’s come back in limited runs every year since its rebirth, usually prompting a shopping frenzy in stores and online. This year, you’ll find the original navy colorway on the website, as well as a Team Red (or burgundy) option that’s never been available at J.Crew before.
It’s easy to see why this is such a sought-after shoe. Inspired by classic ’70s styles, the retro-modern Killshot 2 features a lightweight nylon mesh upper, with suede overlays and an exposed foam tongue that evoke its vintage Nike roots.
The Killshot 2’s low profile and minimalist good looks make it a versatile choice for your favorite smart casual outfits. Made from natural rubber, the distinctive golden gum sole provides superior traction and contrasts handsomely with the iconic burgundy Swoosh—adding a hint of color that’s still neutral enough to pair with pretty much any color of denim or chinos.
Pick up the new burgundy Killshot here
Or snag the original blue here
Check out some Nike Killshot 2 outfit inspiration photos below:
