Nike’s Definitive Dad Shoe Gets a Rich Mid-Life Glow Up
The Air Monarch trades its familiar dadcore design for a rich suede makeover, giving the chunky staple a handsome look for fall.
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When you think of Nike shoes , you may conjure up ideas of championship performances or legendary streetwear models. The Nike Air Monarchs bring to mind an image of freshly cut lawn paired with a set of white crew socks. Arguably, the epitome of dad-core.
Nike's Air Monarch SEs now come in this "Cacao Wow" colorway. - Credit: Nike
And that's exactly part of their charm, however, even the most dependable of dad shoes deserves to dress up occasionally.
Now you can grab the Nike Air Monarch SE in this "Cacao Wow" colorway, which ups this practical sneaker's game for a more seasonality change of pace, pairing this deep brown upper with complimentary "Gum Medium Brown" soles for a fall-esque look and feel. What you end up with is the Monarch's familiar bulky look, while making it a stronger case that can go from the hiking trails to errands, to even date night out.
This version still retains the iconic, chunky Air Monarch build.
The Air Monarch SEs feel like an elevated version of the classic dad shoe.
These dad shoes clean up nicely
With a more elevated palette, this tonal brown colorway gives its wearer a more layered approach that reads understated, and not overly luxe. The gum-colored soles give just enough color contrast to keep the shoes from feeling like a uniform, while the suede gives it more depth. What you get is a super versatile shoe .
Tonal colorway keeps things together and fittingly works perfectly for fall.
A classic, slightly rounded toe box gives just enough room that dads will appreciate.
These sneakers work with multiple apparel combinations: think dark denim and a sweater, or even some corduroy (for an even greater textured look) or a relaxed pair of chinos. This doesn't mean that this Monarch is now automatically a dress shoe, but this version looks more at home with some seasonal flannels than it does riding on a lawn mower.
Nike opted for some higher quality materials in its construction, choosing a mix of suede leather and synthetic overlays across the uppers, while the lightweight foam works alongside full-length Nike Air units for premium cushioning.
The premium suede leather gives it an elevated look and feel with just enough added depth.
Availability and pricing
Right now, you can grab the Nike Air Monarch SE in "Cacao Wow" for just $95 on Nike's website. Considering they are only $10 more expensive than the iconic all white model ($85 at full price), it's a relatively small price to pay for a slightly more elevated and seasonal look.
Nike Air Monarch SE
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