By Sara Atencio-Gonzales, The Paper. – Sneaker enthusiasts gathered outside Kingswell Nob Hill Friday morning for the exclusive early release of Nike’s new “Hatch Chile” SB Dunk Low, a shoe inspired by New Mexico’s iconic green chile.
The Albuquerque skate shop received the shoes a day before the nationwide release through its partnership with Nike, giving local fans the first opportunity to purchase the limited edition sneaker. The shoe features three shades of green, flame-inspired details and retails for $130. The shop also released themed merchandise, including shirts, hats and tote bags to celebrate the launch.
Customers began lining up before the store opened, hoping to secure one of the limited pairs before they sold out.
Among those in line were Jared Lyons and Madison Akridge, who explained that the release was significant because opportunities like this rarely happen in New Mexico.
“It’s, like, pretty unusual. Maybe I don’t know if there’s ever been another sneaker collaboration and release in New Mexico with a kind of local skate shop for a local theme shoe,” said Lyons.
Lyons emphasized that sneaker releases like this are typically associated with larger cities, making the Albuquerque event feel especially meaningful for local collectors.
“This is something that happens a lot in bigger cities, like, other states,” said Lyons. “The idea of waiting and waiting in line to get something is sort of like a big sneakerhead rite of passage.”
Akridge says she usually travels to attend sneaker releases, making Friday’s event a welcome change. “I was born and raised in New Mexico. I usually travel for shoe drops and stuff. So to have one locally is pretty cool,” said Akridge.
When asked what he planned to do if he got a pair, Lyons didn’t hesitate. “Wear it, bro. Wear it,” said Lyons.