The Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 Low ‘MCA University Blue’ represents more than footwear—it’s a cultural artifact that emerged from Virgil Abloh’s groundbreaking “Figures of Speech” exhibition at Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art in June 2019
The Artistic Vision Behind the MCA University Blue
Virgil Abloh’s collaboration with Nike on the Air Force 1 Low ‘MCA University Blue’ represents a pinnacle moment in sneaker culture. Released in June 2019 to coincide with Abloh’s “Figures of Speech” exhibition at Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art, this shoe bridges the worlds of athletic footwear and contemporary art. The design maintains Bruce Kilgore’s classic Air Force 1 Low silhouette while introducing Abloh’s signature deconstructionist elements that challenge conventional aesthetics.
The monochromatic University Blue colorway covers the entire shoe—upper, midsole, and outsole—creating a striking visual statement. This unified color treatment transforms the athletic silhouette into a sculptural art piece, reflecting Abloh’s background in architecture and design. The blue hue serves as both homage to Chicago (Abloh’s hometown) and reference to the Museum of Contemporary Art, embedding local significance into a global release.
Deconstructed Elegance
The shoe features Abloh’s characteristic deconstructed styling, with exposed foam elements that reveal the internal architecture normally hidden from view. This transparent approach to design aligns with Abloh’s broader artistic philosophy of revealing production processes rather than concealing them, inviting viewers to appreciate the craftsmanship behind everyday objects.
Distinctive Design Elements and Authentication Markers
The Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 Low ‘MCA University Blue’ features several signature elements that distinguish it from standard Air Force 1 models and serve as key authentication points.
Signature Swoosh and Text Details
The metallic silver stitched Swoosh creates a compelling contrast against the University Blue backdrop. Unlike printed or embroidered logos, this stitched application creates a dimensional effect that catches light differently as the wearer moves. The iconic “AIR” text appears in white on the midsole, positioned with precise alignment that counterfeiters often fail to replicate accurately.
Off-White Branding Elements
The red Off-White zip tie attached to the laces serves as both a branding element and an authentication marker. White laces feature the word “SHOELACES” printed in black—a quintessential Off-White detail that requires examination for proper font characteristics and placement. The medial side text reading “Off-White™ for NIKE ‘NIKE AIR FORCE 1’ Beaverton, Oregon USA” appears in Abloh’s industrial-inspired Helvetica font, with specific quotation marks and placement that authenticators scrutinize closely.
Detailed Finishing Touches
A small red tab adjacent to the Swoosh provides another authentication point through its precise stitching and positioning. This minute detail exemplifies the attention to craftsmanship that distinguishes genuine pairs from replicas.
Technical Specifications and Craftsmanship
The Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 Low ‘MCA University Blue’ carries the style code CI1173-400, which appears on original packaging and internal tags. The shoe features premium blue leather construction throughout the upper, with a specific texture and finish that contributes to its luxury appeal.
Materials and Construction
The quality of the blue leather used on authentic pairs exhibits a consistent grain pattern and uniform color saturation. The construction maintains the robust durability expected from Air Force 1 models while incorporating Abloh’s deconstructed elements. A complete pair weighs approximately 2 pounds, with the heft serving as another verification point during authentication procedures.
Comfort and Sizing
Despite its status as a collector’s item, the shoe retains the Nike Air cushioning technology in the midsole that provides comfort and impact protection. Available in men’s US sizes 4 through 12 (with varied availability), the shoe generally fits true to size, consistent with standard Air Force 1 sizing.
Market Value and Investment Potential
Released at a retail price of $150 USD in June 2019 as an MCA raffle exclusive, the Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 Low ‘MCA University Blue’ has appreciated significantly in the secondary market.
Price Trajectory and Current Valuation
Current resale values range from $1,000 to $3,500+, with an average price of approximately $1,990 over the past 12 months. This variation depends primarily on condition and size, with deadstock pairs in popular sizes commanding premium prices. The limited nature of the release—available initially only through a raffle at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago—has contributed to its scarcity and value appreciation.
Collector Context
First spotted on tennis legend Serena Williams in May 2019, the shoe generated immediate buzz among sneaker enthusiasts and art collectors alike. The subsequent limited release further cemented its status as a grail item. In the hierarchy of Off-White x Nike collaborations, the ‘MCA University Blue’ stands as one of the most collectible Air Force 1 designs, consistently maintaining strong demand among serious collectors.
Investment Considerations
The cultural significance of this release, combined with Virgil Abloh’s profound impact on fashion and design before his passing, suggests continued value appreciation for well-preserved pairs. The shoe represents not just footwear but a tangible connection to Abloh’s artistic legacy and his revolutionary approach to design collaboration.
Ownership Experience
These aren’t just sneakers—they’re wearable art that connects you to Virgil Abloh’s revolutionary design philosophy. When you purchase the Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 Low ‘MCA University Blue’ through The RealReal, you’re not simply buying footwear; you’re investing in a piece of contemporary fashion history that continues to influence design, culture, and style worldwide.
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