- In the fast-moving world of streetwear, few collaborations survive the hype cycle of their release year. However, as we settle into 2026, the Nike Air Max 95 x Corteiz "Tour Yellow" (affectionately dubbed the "Honey Blacks") has not only survived—it has thrived.
- Following the explosive success of the "Gutta Green," "Pink Beam," and "Aegean Storm," Clint419’s fourth installment was a tactical masterclass. Released in Spring 2025, this all-black iteration with striking yellow accents became the sophisticated closer to one of the decade's most important sneaker partnerships. Today, securing a pair requires navigating a complex secondary market. This guide is your definitive resource for buying, authenticating, and styling the Corteiz 95s in 2026.
- Design Deep Dive: Why the "Tour Yellow" is Different
- While the earlier Corteiz Air Max 95s were defined by their military surplus aesthetic and camo interiors, the "Tour Yellow" marked a shift toward urban stealth.
- 1. The "Triple Black" Foundation
- The upper is constructed from premium leather overlays and heavy-duty mesh, dipped entirely in black. This choice was deliberate—it increases the shoe's durability for daily wear (a core Corteiz philosophy) while allowing the accents to shine.
- 2. The "Tour Yellow" Accents
- The signature hue isn't overused. It appears with surgical precision on:
- The Air Max Units: The bubbles glow with a vibrant yellow that contrasts sharply against the black midsole.
- Branding: The "C" logo on the toe box and the "Alcatraz" logo on the tongue.
- Heel Coordinates: The subtle yellow stitching on the heel remains a fan favorite detail.
- 3. The Glossy Interior
- The most significant departure from previous models is the sockliner. While the first three drops featured a woodland camo lining, the "Honey Black" introduced a glossy, jet-black interior. This change is now a critical touchpoint for authenticators in 2026.
- Where to Buy Authentic Pairs in 2026
- Since the retail supply dried up immediately after the April 2025 drop, "Deadstock" (brand new, unworn) pairs are exclusively available on the secondary market. Here is a breakdown of the safest platforms to use this year.
- 1. StockX (Best for Market Transparency)
- StockX remains the volume leader for this silhouette. In 2026, their verification centers have updated their protocols specifically for high-tier fakes of the Corteiz 95.
- Pros: You can see the "Last Sale" data to ensure you aren't overpaying.
- 2. GOAT (Best for Quality Control)
- GOAT’s "Instant Ship" option is popular for those who need the pair immediately. Their authentication process is widely regarded as the most stringent for "used" or "defect" pairs, but for "New," they are equally reliable.
- Buyer Tip: Look for "GOAT Storage" listings, as these are already authenticated and ready to ship.
- 4. Flight Club (Best for In-Store Experience)
- If you are in NYC, LA, or Miami, you can often find these physically in Flight Club. You will pay a premium (usually 10-15% over online prices), but the ability to inspect the shoe in person is invaluable.
- Authentication Check: Spotting Fakes in 2026
- As the value of the "Honey Black" rises, so does the quality of replicas. If you are buying from a private seller, check these four areas immediately.
- The "Alcatraz" Logo Definition
- On authentic pairs, the Alcatraz logo on the tongue is embroidered with high density. The edges should be sharp and raised. On fakes, this logo often looks flat or the stitching appears "thin" and sparse.
- The Netting Quality
- The Air Max 95 netting on the side panels should be taut and firm. Press your finger against the mesh—it should bounce back immediately. Replicas often use a softer, flimsier mesh that sags when pressed.
- The "Tour Yellow" Hue
- The yellow used by Nike is specific (Tour Yellow). Counterfeit versions often get this wrong, leaning either too neon (Volt) or too orange (University Gold). Compare the Air Unit color to official photos on Nike’s website; the difference is usually visible in the transparency of the bubble.
- The Lace Lock
- Authentic Corteiz 95s come with a specialized lace lock system. The toggle should have a solid "click" when adjusted. Fakes often have a spring mechanism that feels loose or "crunchy."
- Sizing and Fit Guide
- The Air Max 95 is a notorious silhouette when it comes to sizing, and the Corteiz collaboration complicates this further with its modified materials.
- Standard Feet: Go True to Size (TTS). The shoe will feel snug at first due to the leather and mesh construction, but it breaks in beautifully after 3-4 wears.
- Wide Feet: Absolutely go Half a Size Up. The toe box on the 95 is narrow, and the reinforced toe cap on the Corteiz model adds rigidity that does not stretch easily.
- Comparison: If you wear a size 10 in an Air Force 1 (which runs big), buy a size 10.5 in the Corteiz Air Max 95.
- Investment Analysis: Is It Worth the Price?
- Is the "Honey Black" a good buy in 2026?
- From a Collector's Standpoint: Yes. This was the final colorway of the initial "Rules the World" run. Historically, the last release of a major collaboration tends to appreciate slowly but steadily as deadstock supply dwindles.
- From a Wearability Standpoint: It is arguably the best of the four for actual wear. The "Gutta Green" and "Pink Beam" are difficult to style daily. The "Honey Black" is a utilitarian workhorse that hides dirt and matches almost any streetwear outfit.
- 2026 Price Prediction: Analysts expect the price to stabilize around $400 by the end of 2026 as fewer brand-new pairs remain in circulation. Buying now at the $280-$320 mark is a safe financial decision.
- FAQ: Quick Answers for Buyers
- Q: Did the "Honey Black" come with the camo box? A: Yes and No. It comes in the special Corteiz box, but the interior paper and detailing are specific to this release. Ensure the box label matches the SKU FB2709-003.
- Q: Can I swap the laces? A: The shoe comes with the signature drawcord lacing system. While you can cut them out to swap for standard laces, it is highly discouraged as it ruins the resale value and the intended aesthetic of the shoe.
- Q: Is Corteiz dropping more Nike shoes in 2026? A: While rumors of an Air Trainer Huarache sequel persist, the Air Max 95 chapter is currently considered closed. This finality is what drives the "Tour Yellow" demand.
- https://corteizfr.net/air-max-95/