Nike Air Force 1 Experimental Anthracite
Nike • Air Force 1 • Anthracite/Black-Hyper Royal-Volt
Confidence Level
88% — Correct vacuum-sealed aesthetic, toggle lacing system, and N.354 branding consistent with retail pairs.
Overall Assessment
Based on the visual evidence, this pair is authentic. The Air Force 1 Experimental is a highly unique silhouette defined by a vacuum-sealed sponge-like upper, which is correctly executed here with the characteristic wrinkles and matte texture. The toggle lacing system, blue heel pull tabs, and specific N.354 handwriting font on the mid-foot all match retail specifications for the Anthracite colorway.
Style Code
CV1754-001
Release Year
2021
Retail Price
$130 USD
Market Value
$100-$160 USD (Pre-owned to DS)
Materials Analysis
The upper features the correct thin, synthetic vacuum-sealed foam layer over a sponge base. The texture is matte and slightly tacky to the touch (visually) as expected. The deliberate 'creasing' and air-bubble effects under the film are consistent with authentic manufacturing processes for this specific Experimental model.
Stitching Analysis
Most stitching is hidden beneath the vacuum-sealed outer layer, which is a design feature. However, the visible stitching on the heel tab and around the collar appears dense and uniform. There are no loose threads or messy junctions visible in the lacing area.
Sole Analysis
The midsole is also covered in the vacuum-sealed film, creating a seamless look from upper to sole. The transition between the upper and the midsole is sharp. The anthracite rubber outsole features the standard AF1 pivot circle pattern with crisp edges.
Logo & Branding Analysis
The 'N.354' script on the lateral side is rendered in the correct hand-drawn style font. The Volt (yellow) sticker-style branding on the heel is correctly placed and features the upside-down Nike Air logo, which is a key design element of this specific release.
Tag & Label Analysis
The internal size tags are not visible in the provided image. The external branding labels on the heel and tongue (partially visible) align with the 'Experimental' series design language.
Box Analysis
Box not visible in image.
Construction Quality
The build is solid with no evidence of industrial glue seepage beyond the intended design. The toggle lace locks are of high quality, and the foam tongue shows the correct exposed-edge vintage aesthetic.
Shape & Silhouette
The silhouette is correctly bulbous and slightly oversized due to the foam casing. The toe box has the appropriate rounded profile, and the heel curve is consistent with the modified AF1 last used for this collection.
Color Accuracy
The Anthracite (dark charcoal) shade is accurate. The Hyper Royal blue on the heel pull tabs provides the correct high-contrast pop, and the Volt yellow on the heel branding is the correct neon hue.
Red Flags
No significant red flags identified. The wrinkles on the upper are often mistaken for damage or poor quality, but are a standard design feature of the AF1 Experimental.
Positive Indicators
Correct vacuum-sealed texture, accurate N.354 branding font, proper dual-lacing system with toggle, and correct placement of the yellow heel decal.
Key Details
This sneaker is part of Nike's N.354 label, which explores conceptual designs. The upper is inspired by oxygen masks used in the Nike sports research lab, hence the 'sealed' look and 'Experimental' naming.
Care Recommendations
Due to the unique vacuum-sealed film, avoid using harsh chemicals or brushes that could puncture the outer layer. Wipe down with a damp cloth only. Store away from direct sunlight to prevent the thin film from yellowing or becoming brittle over time.