The sneaker world has always thrived on culture, storytelling, and innovation. Every once in a while, a collaboration arrives that not only excites sneakerheads but also transcends footwear — blending fashion, sport, and lifestyle. One such groundbreaking release is the latest Eastside Golf and Nike ‘Take Flight’ collection, a drop that isn’t just about sneakers but about redefining how golf, streetwear, and heritage connect.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this highly anticipated drop: from the story behind Eastside Golf, to Nike’s role in shaping sneaker culture, to what makes the “Take Flight” sneakers so special. We’ll also explore how you can style them, where to shop, and why this collaboration matters for the future of inclusive sports fashion.
The Story of Eastside Golf
Eastside Golf isn’t just another streetwear-inspired sports brand. Founded by Olajuwon Ajanaku and Earl Cooper, two Morehouse College alumni and professional golfers, Eastside Golf was born with a mission: make golf more inclusive, relatable, and stylish.
For years, golf has been associated with exclusivity — collared shirts, country clubs, and an aesthetic that often feels disconnected from younger and more diverse communities. Eastside Golf challenges that stereotype, introducing apparel and footwear that merges authentic golf culture with the swagger of streetwear.
Their logo — a Black golfer swinging in jeans and a gold chain — symbolizes breaking barriers and expanding the perception of what golf can be. By partnering with Nike, Eastside Golf has been able to push this vision into the mainstream sneaker scene.
Nike’s Legacy in Collaborative Drops
Nike has long dominated the sneaker industry not just through performance innovation but also through storytelling partnerships. From Michael Jordan’s iconic Air Jordan 1 to Virgil Abloh’s Off-White collabs, Nike understands that sneakers are cultural artifacts.
By teaming up with Eastside Golf, Nike isn’t just releasing a new colorway — they’re co-signing a cultural shift. It’s about amplifying voices that redefine tradition and connecting sports with streetwear audiences who crave authenticity.
The “Take Flight” Concept
The latest Eastside Golf x Nike collection, titled “Take Flight,” is more than a shoe — it’s a metaphor. It represents breaking ceilings, taking chances, and soaring beyond limitations. For Ajanaku and Cooper, it’s about taking golf to new heights and bringing underrepresented communities along for the ride.
The design of the collection captures this essence:
- Flight Motifs – Subtle nods to wings, clouds, and upward motion embedded in the shoe’s design.
- Luxury Meets Performance – Premium materials like tumbled leather, suede overlays, and metallic accents.
- Golf-Ready Details – Traction patterns and durability that make them playable on the course but stylish enough for the streets.
Key Sneakers in the “Take Flight” Drop
While the collection may include apparel, the sneakers are the star of the show. Here’s a breakdown of the highlights:
1. Air Jordan 1 Low Golf “Take Flight”
- Blends the iconic Jordan 1 silhouette with golf-ready traction.
- Colorways inspired by heritage tones and modern streetwear palettes.
- A perfect bridge between basketball culture, golf functionality, and street fashion.
2. Air Jordan 6 Golf “Take Flight”
- A bold design with premium leather overlays.
- Accents that reference the idea of soaring beyond boundaries.
- Provides all-day comfort and technical grip on the course.
3. Nike Air Max 90 Golf x Eastside Golf
- Combines one of Nike’s most beloved Air Max models with Eastside Golf’s aesthetic.
- Lightweight cushioning and contemporary styling.
- Easy to wear from the green to the city streets.
Style Guide: How to Wear the Collection
What makes Eastside Golf x Nike stand out is versatility. Unlike traditional golf shoes, these sneakers are meant to be styled beyond the course.
- Streetwear Edge: Pair with tapered cargo pants, a hoodie, and a bomber jacket.
- Golf-Casual: Slim-fit chinos, a polo shirt, and Eastside Golf outerwear.
- Smart Athleisure: Neutral joggers with a tailored jacket and bold sneakers.
The beauty of this drop lies in its ability to seamlessly move between sport, lifestyle, and fashion.
Why This Collaboration Matters
The Eastside Golf x Nike partnership isn’t just about limited sneakers. It represents a cultural movement with deeper implications:
- Diversifying Golf – Opening the sport to new audiences, making it accessible, and celebrating Black excellence.
- Bridging Generations – Introducing younger sneakerheads to golf culture while giving golfers fresh style inspiration.
- Redefining Luxury Sportswear – Moving away from stiff traditions and toward expressive, versatile apparel.
- Inspiring Communities – “Take Flight” symbolizes chasing dreams beyond limits, resonating far beyond footwear.
Where to Buy the “Take Flight” Collection
Sneaker drops like this often come with hype, so knowing where to buy is crucial:
- Nike SNKRS App – The primary platform for exclusive releases.
- Eastside Golf Official Website – Limited pairs and apparel bundles.
- Select Retailers – High-end stores like END., Dover Street Market, and Golf-specific retailers.
- Resale Platforms – StockX, GOAT, and eBay (expect higher prices).
Tip: Always check release dates and raffles ahead of time, as demand is expected to be high.
Sneaker Culture Meets Golf: A New Era
The Eastside Golf x Nike “Take Flight” drop is part of a broader trend where sneaker culture is merging with unlikely arenas. Just as basketball shoes became lifestyle icons, golf sneakers are now breaking into streetwear.
This collaboration not only legitimizes golf-inspired sneakers in the hype ecosystem but also sends a strong message: style belongs everywhere, and so does inclusion.
FAQs
Q1: What is Eastside Golf?
A: Eastside Golf is a lifestyle and golf brand founded by Olajuwon Ajanaku and Earl Cooper to make golf more inclusive and stylish.
Q2: What makes the Eastside Golf x Nike “Take Flight” collection unique?
A: It blends premium design, cultural storytelling, and golf functionality in sneakers wearable both on and off the course.
Q3: Which shoes are included in the collection?
A: Key pairs include the Air Jordan 1 Low Golf, Air Jordan 6 Golf, and Nike Air Max 90 Golf, all with “Take Flight” details.
Q4: Where can I buy the “Take Flight” sneakers?
A: On Nike’s SNKRS app, Eastside Golf’s official site, select retailers, and secondary resale platforms.
Q5: Are these sneakers limited edition?
A: Yes, they are limited, and demand is expected to be high, so early access and raffles are key.
Q6: Can you wear Eastside Golf x Nike sneakers outside of golf?
A: Absolutely! The collection is designed for versatility, making it perfect for both streetwear and golf.
Conclusion
The Eastside Golf x Nike “Take Flight” collection is more than a sneaker drop — it’s a cultural moment. It bridges golf and streetwear, challenges stereotypes, and empowers communities to see sport and fashion differently.
By combining Nike’s sneaker legacy with Eastside Golf’s mission to diversify and modernize golf, “Take Flight” represents more than style. It’s about taking risks, breaking barriers, and inspiring the next generation to soar.
Whether you’re a sneaker collector, a golfer, or someone who loves style with meaning, this drop deserves your attention. And while pairs may be hard to secure, the message behind them will last far beyond the hype: it’s time for golf — and fashion — to take flight.