Cart is empty

Go to SF Shop

The Nike Waffle Trainer 2 ‘K2’ Celebrates a Pivotal Mountaineering Moment

Nike Waffle Trainer 2 K2
Nike Waffle Trainer 2 K2
Nike Waffle Trainer 2 K2
Nike Waffle Trainer 2 K2
Nike Waffle Trainer 2 K2

Nike are releasing a Waffle Trainer 2 that references 1978’s pioneering first ascent of K2 by Americans, which also became an important moment in Swoosh sneaker history. A now-famous photograph of Rick Ridgeway and John Roskelley on the approach to K2 depicted them wearing the Nike LDV – a lightweight runner well out of its natural habitat. This revelation inspired Nike to begin developing hiking shoes in the 1980s, which in turn led to the ACG line.

Over 40 years since that memorable K2 moment, the Waffle Trainer 2 replicates the LDV’s OG yellow and blue colourway with some extra references to the event. One such overt homage is the K2 text overlaid on the heel tab that usually reads NIKE. Another is the base camp graphic on the insoles acknowledging the 1978 achievement. More subtle nods include the flecked flat laces reminiscent of hikers from the era. And, perhaps addressing the gaping tear seen in the OG picture, Nike have swapped out mesh for durable twill on the uppers of the commemorative release.

It does beg the question of why Nike didn’t just retro the LDV, especially considering its LDWaffle update has been doing the rounds. Some things remain a mystery. Keep an eye out for the Nike Waffle Trainer 2 ‘K2’ to climb atop shelves in coming months.

Subscribe to our Newsletter