Nike M2K Tekno sneakers

The first product to feature in the men’s and women’s hottest products lists simultaneously, the Nike M2K Tekno is one of 2018’s most wanted sneakers. An evolution of the classic Nike Air Monarchs which originated in the early 2000s, the M2K Tekno keeps the original shoe’s chunky ‘dad’ aesthetic, complete with thick soles and cut-out mesh panels.

While the shape of the M2K Tekno and Monarch’s midsole and outsole are almost identical in the forefoot, the Tekno has chunkier soles with a more pronounced shape than the original. Two other major changes are the leather panelling which is more complex on the M2K Tekno and the Swoosh has decreased in size. While sneakerheads no doubt appreciate the parallels with the shoe’s 2002 design inspiration, the men’s M2K Tekno has introduced the iconic shoe to a new generation of fans.

Originally just for women, the Tekno debuted on the John Elliott runway in February, where it became an instant social media success and quickly resulted in the production of men's sizes. Dropping online in August, the men’s Tekno has been driving searches ever since. In terms of design, not much has changed in its unisex iterations. Nike designer Jin Hong added a modern edge with a clunkier silhouette, coloured heel clip and updated branding, but kept the essence of the Monarch for both the men’s and women’s shoes, with a dad-approved chunky Air sole and panelled leather mix upper.

Having moved 5 places up the hottest brands Index this quarter, it’s clear that the M2K Tekno is just one of many products driving demand for Nike over the summer. While fellow ‘dad shoes’ like Balenciaga Triple S and the Fila Disruptor (one of last quarter’s hottest sneakers) continue to support the ugly sneaker movement, Nike’s M2K Tekno is the sportswear giant’s contribution to the ongoing global trend.

At an affordable $115, the Nike Tekno is Find the Tekno on Nike’s web store, and pricing for the chunky sneaker is currently set at $115.