Nike Introduces New Yardrunners 6.0 Collection

Nike’s purpose is to move the world forward through the power of sport, breaking barriers and building community to change the game for all. Nike’s commitment to taking action to create a better world is reflected in its continued support of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) – through purpose-driven product, storytelling, recruitment, and investments.

As part of these efforts, Nike Yardrunners was created in 2020 to celebrate the rich heritage, history, and contributions of HBCUs and their alumni on global sport and culture. Founded by Nike HBCU alumni, the initiative serves as an opportunity for teams at Nike to partner with HBCU trailblazers and community creatives to create inspirational products and storytelling with and for the community.

Yardrunners 6.0

For its sixth year, Nike Yardrunners spotlights four distinguished HBCUs – Florida A&M University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, and Norfolk State University – through Air Max 95 silhouettes inspired by each school’s heritage, colors, and community.

This year’s Yardrunners class honors the individuals – students, alumni, and faculty – who uplift their campuses and embody HBCU pride. From band directors and professors to student leaders and graduates shaping their fields, Yardrunners 6.0 recognizes protagonists who make lasting contributions that move culture forward.

Air Max 95 FAMU YR

The Florida A&M Air Max 95 captures the essence of the FAMU community – bold, spirited, and grounded in tradition. Stacked layers of leather in orange and green tones lead up to a snake print inspired by the school’s legendary Rattler mascot. Along the upper, the classic chant “Strike, strike, and strike again” honors the legacy of those who continue to lead with purpose.

The highlighted FAMU community includes:

David Castro, FAMU Alum, Founder of DungeonFord

Dr. Shelby Chipman, Director of Bands FAMU

Zayla Bryant, SGA President

Arayana Ladson, ’25 SWAC Women’s Outdoor Track and Field Performer of the Year

Air Max 95 Spelman YR

The Air Max 95 for Spelman College highlights the grace and strength that define this historic institution for women. Crafted in the school’s signature blue and white, the design features layered leather and suede accents with a jaguar print – a nod to Spelman’s mascot. The college’s logo and founding year is printed on the tongue, while a reference to the beloved Spelman Hymn “Thy Name We Praise” appears on the upper.

The highlighted Spelman community includes:

Olivia Brown, Spelman Flag Football Offensive Captain

Dr. Joyce Johnson, Professor Emerita of Music, College Organist Since 1995

Eboni Ellis, Spelman Alum; Founder of Women in Hip Hop Collective

Kamora Freeland, Spelman’28; Youngest African American Female Pilot in the Country

Air Max 95 Morehouse YR

The Air Max 95 Morehouse YR channels the timeless spirit of the Maroon Tiger. Rich hues of black and dark red are layered with leather and suede, while the sneaker’s tiger-inspired print represents strength and scholarship. The school’s logo is printed on the tongue, with the motto “Et Facta Est Lux” (And There Was Light) outlined along the upper.

The highlighted Morehouse community includes:

Dr. Brock Mayers, AVP of Student Services; Dean of Students

Keshawn Wiley III, Morehouse ‘25 Entrepreneur of the Year

Rodney Gross, Morehouse ’23; Award Winning Javelin Thrower

Moody Family, Charles Moody (Father) Charles Jr. (Son)

Air Max 95 Norfolk YR

The Air Max 95 for Norfolk State University embodies Spartan pride – vibrant, resilient, and rooted in unity. Green and gold layers of leather and suede celebrate the school’s colors, while the phrase “Behold the Green and Gold” along the upper captures the passion and perseverance that define the NSU community.

The highlighted Norfolk State University community includes:

Marty Miller, Former NSU Athletic Director and Baseball Coach, American Baseball Coach Association Hall of Famer

Demetrius Pernell, Mister NSU

Quiara Jackson, First Female Drum Major at NSU

Indya Richards, Alumni

Availability

The Yardrunners 6.0 collection will be available at select retailers beginning October 11 and the SNKRS app on October 14.