Nike Moon Shoe x Jacquemus shoes "University Red"

The Moon Shoe was Nike’s earliest running shoe. Designed by Bill Bowerman in 1971, it featured his innovative Waffle sole, which was optimised for lightweight traction. After being used by runners at the United States Olympic Trials in 1972, it inspired classic sports shoes such as the Waffle Trainer but never received a full release of its own. The Moon Shoe was rediscovered by Bowerman’s son in 2010, and in 2025, French designer Simon Porte Jacquemus revived the silhouette in an elegant collaboration with Nike. This led to a 2026 retro release that has allowed modern generations to enjoy the heritage charm of this sporting icon.

Waffle Sole: Bill Bowerman’s iconic outsole design inspired by his wife’s waffle iron features a raised grid pattern that provides reliable multidirectional traction on a range of surfaces. It is lightweight and flexible with a slightly cushioned bounce for comfort.

Supple nylon fabric is lightweight, durable and slightly breathable.

Nylon eyestay and forefoot overlay with jagged edges add durability and style.

Large leather Swooshes and midfoot panels bring structure to the flanks.

Leather heel counter delivers sturdy rearfoot support.

Standard lacing and punched eyelets combine to secure the foot.

Floating heel tab acts as a pull tab for convenient entry.

Thin tongue reduces weight.

Stitched seams improve durability, particularly at the collar, which is protected by a dual-layered design.

No midsole to speak of, just a stitched-in Strobel that acts as a lightweight, pliable platform for the foot.

Deep, square-shaped lugs give multidirectional grip on tracks, grass and other surfaces.

Full-coverage rubber is thin yet durable, with grid structure facilitating the use of less material to keep weight to a minimum.

Lugs are arranged in rows that allow the foot to flex naturally.

Outsole has a slight give to it, thus cushioning the foot as it lands.

Thick, cushy foam insole takes the place of a traditional midsole, offering plush comfort while reducing bulk and maintaining the shoe’s lightweight feel.