Nike Air Foamposite One Glows in the Dark

Nike will release a new, glow-in-the-dark Air Foamposite One on October 16, 2026. The shoe will retail for $240. For a look at upcoming releases and how they might compare to classic team fixtures, sneakerheads are always watching the calendar.

The design leverages modern print technology to dramatically change its appearance in darkness. In daylight, the shoe presents a muted, wearable palette with a subtle safari-like texture on its molded upper. When the lights go down, the entire shell and outsole emit a vibrant green glow.

A Radical Legacy

Eric Avar originally designed the Nike Air Foamposite One in 1997. It was considered a radical experiment at the time. The construction process involved pouring liquid synthetic foam into a mold. This method was so costly that Nike reportedly had to partner with car manufacturer Daewoo to produce it.

The model broke all traditional rules of sneaker making. It was famously worn on-court by Penny Hardaway. The shoe quickly transcended basketball to become a cultural icon, especially in New York City. Its futuristic, molded build and durability cemented its status, much like a key player's role in a team's squad.

Modernizing an Icon

The new colorway, dubbed 'Phantom/Barely Volt,' aims to write a fresh chapter for the silhouette. It takes significant effort to stand out within the Foamposite lineage, but this pair attempts it by homaging past graphic releases. The glow effect pays direct tribute to legendary editions like the iconic 2012 Galaxy Foamposite.

The upper's signature molded shell comes in a soft Phantom shade. Light suede is used on the eyestays for a premium feel. Subtle Barely Volt accents highlight several details.

The Glow Effect

The core innovation lies in the photochromatic transformation. Highsnobiety's report states the safari-style print mapped across the upper is the key. This tonal pattern is almost invisible by day. It becomes the source of the intense glow in low-light conditions.

The entire visual identity of the shoe shifts. This creates two distinct wears from a single pair, a duality that could be as compelling as tracking a player's performance stats over a season. It is, as the source describes, "how to modernize a legend."

Nike's Air Foamposite One remains one of the most identifiable and divisive designs in footwear. The Phantom/Barely Volt edition seeks to add another memorable moment to its nearly three-decade story. The shoe's glow ensures it will be seen, day or night.