The Nike Air Rift was launched by Nike in 1996. It was the company's first step into non-trainer footwear. The shoes was designed as a hybrid sneaker / sandal. The shoe had a unique split toe design and, combined with it's unique stretch fit and unusual design, the shoe become very popular, despite a lack of heavy marketing. The Nike Air Rift was re-launched in the summer of 2015. The shoe kept it's idiosyncratic design and includes a mesh upper that absorbs moisture for optimal ventilation and two Velcro closures on straps at the midfoot and heel.