Nike Mind 001 Mule ‘Triple Black’ Release Date HQ4307-005

It’s technically not even a sneaker, but Nike’s perpetually sold-out Mind 001 recovery mule is arguably the most hyped launch from an athletic footwear brand so far this year. And while the science-backed shoe has already been released in one nearly all-black look, one of the Mind 001’s upcoming colorways is going the extra mile with an entirely blacked-out design.

Joining the already lengthy list of Nike Mind 001 styles is a Black/Anthracite/Cool Gray colorway. And despite the inclusion of Anthracite and Cool Gray in the color description, the lighter shades appear only on the shoe’s insole, leaving the upper fully covered in a black shade that’s drawn comparisons to “Star Wars” villain Darth Vader on social media.

Even the Mind 001’s signature underfoot nodes, which have thus far been highlighted with contrasting colors, are given the tonal treatment. While a specific release date has not yet been confirmed, it looks like the upcoming Mind 001 style will be the first version of the model to feature matching nodes.

Nike’s Mind footwear was announced in October and made its retail debut in January. Consisting of the Mind 001 mule and the Mind 002 sneaker, Nike touts the new line as “mind-altering” and says it took over 10 years to develop. 

The new franchise is a product of the Beaverton, Ore.-based sportswear company’s newly launched Mind Science Department, which is made up of neuroscientists seeking to enhance athlete’s preparation and recovery. Each Mind model features 22 individual nodes directly under the foot which are intended to help the wearer stay present and connect with their surroundings.

“Every step I take, I think of the shoe and what I feel in my feet — which is a good thing. It helps me to bring balance to my game,” soccer superstar and Nike athlete Erling Haaland said in a press release.

The Nike Mind 001 Black/Anthracite/Cool Grey is set to be released this fall for $95 from nike.com and select Nike Sportswear retailers. The style code for the upcoming pair is HQ4307-005.