Nike Air Tech Challenge 2 Returns in ‘Photon Dust and Dusty Cactus’ Colorway

Nike is bringing back the Air Tech Challenge 2 in a new “Photon Dust and Dusty Cactus” colorway, giving sneaker collectors another retro release tied to one of the most recognizable tennis shoes of the 1990s. The new edition is priced at $180 and is scheduled to release August 18 at 10 AM ET through Nike SNKRS.

The Air Tech Challenge 2 originally became known for its aggressive styling and its connection to the tennis scene of the early 1990s. Nike says the model stood out because of its unconventional look, and the new release is designed to bring that same attitude back with a combination of a crisp white upper and accents in Photon Dust and Dusty Cactus.

Nike has kept several of the shoe’s original design elements intact for the latest release. The sneaker features a mix of real and synthetic leather on the upper, a padded foam collar and a visible Max Air unit, preserving much of the construction that helped define the original model.

For collectors of vintage-inspired Nike releases, the return offers another chance to pick up a design closely associated with the brand’s early-1990s tennis era. Rather than substantially reworking the silhouette, Nike is leaning into nostalgia with familiar construction paired with a fresh color combination.

While Nike doesn’t mention any official connection on their product page, Back to the Future fans will surely notice that the shoe bears a striking resemblance to a self-lacing shoe worn by one Marty McFly.

The Nike Air Tech Challenge 2 “Photon Dust and Dusty Cactus,” style number IX4084-025, will be available beginning August 18 at 10 AM ET for $180 through Nike SNKRS.