Just days after the shoe had leaked, Nike has officially pulled back the curtain on Giannis Antetokounmpo’s sixth signature sneaker.
The Nike Giannis Freak 6 will launch in August with two colorways tied to his family. A “Roses” edition represents Antetokounmpo’s relationship with his late father, Charles, while the “Naija” variant is named for his Nigerian roots and invokes to his “high-energy” style. Previously, a “Total Orange” colorway releasing in October gave the public its first glimpse at the model.
Cushlon 2.0 foam works in conjunction with an Air Zoom unit at the forefoot as a landing point for drives to the basket, while the TPU midsole and internal containment structure are made for lasting lateral stability. An updated rubber “Freakprint” outsole targets traction and responsiveness for cuts — and, as seen in official images, bears the word “Freaky” in at least the “Naija” colorway. The upper, which features an oversized Swoosh carrying over to the midsole, is made out of a lightweight and breathable monomesh.
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Embroidered flowers with thorns adorn the Swoosh on the “Roses” edition to go along with additional embroidery on the tongue. Another rose-tinted floral pattern appears faintly throughout the cream mesh upper. The “Naija” is more straightforward with its color-blocking, as the grey and black look is interrupted by the lime green Swoosh and asymmetrical tongue branding.
Judging by the “Total Orange” variant coming later with a graphic depicting Antetokounmpo flexing, it appears each colorway may get its own unique marks on the tongue.
Antetokounmpo has had “Roses” colorways for his sneakers dating back to his first model in honor of his father, who immigrated from Nigeria to Greece and passed away in 2017.
In addition to the Giannis Freak 6, Nike has also announced a new takedown Immortality 4 model and apparel collection will launch together.
The Nike Giannis Freak will release on August 16 through Nike’s website and select third-party retailers. Pricing is set at $140.
About the Author:
Ian Servantes is a Senior News Editor for Footwear News specializing in sneaker coverage. He’s previously reported on streetwear and sneakers at Input and Highsnobiety after beginning his career on the pop culture beat. He subscribes to the idea that “ball is life” and doesn’t fuss over his kicks getting dirty.
