Will Smith Mixes Nostalgia With Modern Flair in Custom Air Force 1s on ‘Based on a True Story Tour’ Stop in Germany

Will Smith is in the middle of his “Based on a True Story” summer tour, and the rapper is pairing multiple custom jackets with classic Nike Air Force 1 Low sneakers.

On Sunday, while performing at Hamburg’s Stadtpark Open Air amphitheater in Germany, Smith wore the red and white customized Air Force 1s, which featured a red swoosh and a back tab that helped make the shoe stand out. The shoes had a white leather upper, with a gum rubber outsole in a light brown color.

Taylor Swift wore a similar custom pair that was gifted to her by boyfriend Travis Kelce in 2023.

Smith matched the sneakers with Levi’s jeans and a white T-shirt, as well as a custom jacket designed by Darrell Alston, who is the founder of Bungee USA. The designer created three custom jackets for the tour. Alston’s company is a Philly-based luxury sportswear brand that also features shoes.

“We make pieces that feel nostalgic, but hit like now,” the designer wrote on Instagram after Smith debuted his creation on the road. “You’ve probably seen the Will Smith jacket. But there’s a lot more on the way.”

The tour is in support of his “Based on a True Story” album, which is Smith’s first full-length rap release in 20 years and was released in March. The album featured collaborations with artists like Teyana Taylor and Jac Ross. But for longtime fans, the tour, which is Smith’s first world tour, will include performances of his new music as well as his biggest hits.

The tour is taking him through the U.K. and Europe, with dates running until September, with the last show scheduled to take place in Paris.

From wearing Jordans on “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” to leather dress boots on the red carpet and Christian Louboutin loafers during a street naming ceremony in his honor in Philadelphia, Smith has undergone an evolution in sneaker and style over the years.