By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
Kool-Aid and Nike have launched a licensing collaboration with NBA star Ja Morant for two limited-edition custom sneaker drops.
Adding to Nike’s existing line of Ja Morant products, the company’s product development team drew inspiration from Morant’s favorite Kool-Aid flavors for the design of the licensed sneakers.
“I remember my grandma always having some Kool-Aid in the fridge and that’s part of my special childhood memories,” said Morant.
Launching on May 16, the first pair of co-branded sneakers offers a two-tone color gradient and a glow-in-the-dark outsole, along with licensed imagery from both the beverage brand and Ja Morant.
This imagery includes the Kool-Aid man breaking through a wall, the beverage brand’s Ohhh Yeah! catchphrase and Ja’s 12 AM text.
The flavors that inspired the first collaborative sneaker drop are blue raspberry, cherry, orange and lemon lime.
Following the initial May release, the second licensed sneaker is scheduled to debut in July with a vibrant colorway inspired by Kool-Aid red.
Designed to build on the first product launch in May, the July release will feature many of the same signature details as the initial sneaker drop.
“For nearly 100 years, Kool-Aid has been a symbol of bold flavor, creativity and fun – bringing people together across generations,” said Kraft Heinz marketing director, Kristina Hannant. “Nike and Ja Morant share our passion for self-expression and driving culture, making this collaboration a natural fit,” added Hannant. “We’re always looking for new and exciting ways for fans to celebrate their love for Kool-Aid, and this sneaker collab lets fans mix their kicks and beverages all in one.”
To further promote the launch, Kool-Aid is introducing their first new product offering in over five years.
Designed to cater to the online trend of mixing your own flavor combos, the limited-edition Mix n’ Kicks pack features several of the brand’s most popular flavors.
In addition to the new offering, select fans can enter a competition that gives a chance to win a set of custom Kool-Aid dubraes and laces to go with the new sneakers.
The first Nike x Kool-Aid Ja 2 product drops in limited quantities on May 16 through the SNKRS mobile app and at select retailers across the United States.
Kool-Aid and Nike Mix Up Flavorful Footwear with Ja Morant
