By Tim Newcomb
Nike Brings Back the Mac Attack
Rumors of the return of the original Nike Mac Attack—complete with NYC taxi-style checkered flourishes—first worn by John McEnroe in 1984—have percolated for years, with the likes of LeBron James and Travis Scott pulling out 1980s models going back to 2021. Well, the wait is over as Nike retros the “Nike Attack OG” for the first time on June 23 (retailing for $120).
Nike has followed through on giving tennis fans a reboot, releasing the 2023 iteration “in OG form,” the brand says, bringing “smoke gray” as the base color, navy accents (including the Swoosh), a black-and-blue checkerboard banner on the tongue, and a red Nike Sportswear logo. Expect to also see collaboration versions—Scott and Social Status have both shared designs—and always remain vigilant on the potential for additional inline colorways.
While originally touted as a “rebellious” on-court sneaker, both for its design and for straying from a predominantly white court shoe (that checkered tongue added a daring twist for the times), Nike has enlisted Scott to help promote the new release. “The iconic silhouette,” the brand says, “has been recreated for those who continue the rebellious spirit of the original.”
Above: The new Mac Attack returns 6/23. (Nike)