Nike Air Max CB 34 “Godzilla” sneakers (2025): First look, design speculations, and everything we know so far

Nike is reportedly bringing back one of its beloved basketball sneakers, the Air Max CB 34 “Godzilla”, in 2025.

According to Sneaker Bar Detroit, the shoes are slated to be released in Holiday 2025, with a retail price of around $150. Upon release, fans can expect to find the sneakers on the official Nike website, the SNKRS app, and select retail locations.

Disclaimer: Details of the Nike Air Max CB 34 “Godzilla” sneakers (2025) are only speculated, and are not yet confirmed by the brand. They are subject to change.

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Originally released in 1995, this sneaker quickly caught attention owing to a marketing campaign featuring NBA Hall of Famer Charles Barkley facing off against the giant movie monster Godzilla. The sneaker was noted for its bold design, and is now reportedly making a comeback in its original Black, White, and Varsity Purple colorway, with fresh variations rumored to follow.

This revival continues Nike's trend of re-releasing OG basketball sneakers from the 1990s, a period often regarded as the golden era for both the sport and sneaker industry. Given Barkley’s influence in basketball and pop culture, the return of the CB 34 "Godzilla" might generate excitement among sneaker enthusiasts.

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Reported design and features of the 2025 Nike Air Max CB 34 “Godzilla”

The upcoming edition of the Nike Air Max CB 34 has a colorway combining Black/White-Varsity Purple, Sneaker Bar Detroit reports. Some of its other speculated specs are:

Upper materials

The Nike Air Max CB 34 "Godzilla" (2025) reportedly retains the black nubuck and leather upper. The upper also features perforations for breathability. The shoe’s midfoot strap has been incorporated to lock the foot in place.

Colorway

The Black/White/Varsity Purple color palette remains intact, which gives a nod to the original 1995 release. The Varsity Purple accents are featured on the collar and branding, while orange hits on the outsole add a contrast to the upcoming Air Max CB 34 “Godzilla” shoes. This combination is expected to give the sneakers a bold look that could be a reference to the 1990s basketball era.

Cushioning

One of the significant features of the CB 34 silhouette is its visible Air Max unit in the heel, meant to provide impact protection and cushioning. This technology is a staple in Nike’s basketball sneakers.

Outsole

The chunky midsole and outsole pattern reportedly aims at contributing to the shoe’s sturdy build. The outsole is expected to provide good grip and traction.

Branding details

The Nike Air logo appears on the heel, according to a report in Arch. Another notable detail is the Charles Barkley silhouette on the tongue, showcasing his triple-threat stance.

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Potential drawbacks

The Nike Air Max CB 34 "Godzilla" reportedly has a few minor concerns:

Bulky design: The chunky build may not appeal to those who prefer sleeker basketball sneakers.
Limited versatility: The shoe's performance on the court may not match newer basketball models that feature lightweight materials.

Here is how GOAT described the 2016 edition of the Air CB 34 in 'Black':

"Charles Barkley’s Air CB 34 emerges in its traditional aggressive aesthetic, featuring an assortment of black leather and nubuck panels throughout the layered upper construction. Varsity Purple accents are displayed on the collar and branding, while the midfoot strap helps increase support."