Nike Book 1 Safari IO9703-001

Devin Booker Introduces Nike Book 1 "Safari" Ahead of 2025 NBA Season

Just before the start of the 2024-2025 NBA season, Devin Booker unveiled another standout Player Exclusive (PE) from his collaboration with Nike: the highly anticipated Nike Book 1 “Safari.” This model draws direct inspiration from one of Nike’s most iconic and experimental lifestyle sneakers, making it a significant release both for basketball enthusiasts and sneaker collectors.

A Nod to Nike’s Legendary Archive

The “Safari”-themed colorway was one of two options considered for Booker’s season debut, with the final selection left up to a public poll. While the “Safari” didn’t clinch the inaugural game nod, fan interest was strong enough for Nike to move forward with a retail release. This makes the Book 1 “Safari” the latest entry in a line of Player Exclusives that pay homage to key moments in Nike’s design history, such as the previous “Mowabb” edition inspired by another trailblazer from Nike’s archives.

Nike’s original Air Safari, launched in 1987 and designed by the legendary Tinker Hatfield, remains a cult classic for its bold mix of textures and patterns. By including the “Safari” motif in Booker’s signature line, Nike bridges contemporary basketball performance with the richly layered narrative of its lifestyle lineup. Sneaker fans can get an in-depth look at the enduring legacy of the Air Safari via Hypebeast’s feature on the Nike Book 1 “Air Safari” and consult Sneaker News for details on the “Safari” edition.

Design Elements That Stand Out

Much like its 1987 predecessor, the Nike Book 1 “Safari” features the recognizable speckled textured pattern on the toe-guard, a vibrant burnt orange toe-box, and black accents throughout. Where the Book 1 diverges from the original is in its construction — instead of the classic leather liner of the Air Safari, the Book 1 opts for a plush, comfort-focused lining crafted for all-day wear, optimizing the shoe for both court action and casual settings.

The upper combines high-quality leather and nubuck elements with a supportive canvas-style textile at the midfoot, ensuring a blend of premium feel and durability. The Nike Book 1 is also celebrated for its reliable traction and responsive cushion setup, making it equally at home in a game or as a style statement. For detailed breakdowns of performance, WearTesters offers a comprehensive review covering traction, cushioning, and material quality.

When and Where to Buy

Anticipation for the Nike Book 1 “Safari” continues to build, with the release set for Fall 2025. The retail price is expected to be $155, positioning it as a prime pickup for sneakerheads and fans of Devin Booker alike.

Interested buyers can keep tabs on release updates and early purchase options through major sneaker retailers, with notable early listings set to appear on Kicks Crew and other marketplaces. For a wide array of Book 1 colorways and current market prices, The Hoops Geek offers a useful comparison page.

Sneaker Culture Reacts

On social media, the Nike Book 1 “Safari” is drawing positive attention, with fans and sneaker influencers praising the blend of old-school flair and modern performance. While no viral Instagram posts or tweets from Nike or Booker have surfaced at the time of writing, sneaker culture forums and comment sections are buzzing about the shoe’s upcoming release and distinctive homage to the Air Safari lineage.

Final Thoughts

The Nike Book 1 “Safari” IO9703-001 exemplifies how classic inspirations can be seamlessly infused into contemporary performance footwear. Devin Booker’s commitment to honoring Nike’s design history alongside modern innovation makes this release one to watch for the upcoming season. For more on the background and technical specs of the Nike Book 1, you can explore Nike’s official release info or catch ongoing news at Sneaker News.