Nike on Lil Nas X’s ‘Satan Shoes’: ‘We Did NOT Design or Endorse Them’

Lil Nas X set headlines alight over Palm Sunday weekend when he announced a partnership with MSCHF to release 666 pairs of ‘Satan Shoes’ – a Nike Air Max that reportedly contained a drop of human blood in each pair (as we reported here).

Due in stores Monday (March 29), the collector’s item nabbed headlines for its satanic design which featured upside-down crosses, a pentagram attached to the shoe laces, and “x/666” in red embroidery on each pair.

As news of the kicks treaded on trending status, some commenters began slamming Nike for their involvement with the endorsement – a rumor the shoe giants quickly squashed.

In a statement released to NBC News, Nike revealed:

“We do not have a relationship with Little Nas X or MSCHF,” the company said in a statement. “Nike did not design or release these shoes and we do not endorse them.”

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The design and Nike’s reported (now denied) involvement weren’t the only things earning thumbs down from detractors – many were none-too-pleased with the associated price tag.

As the Bible scripture Luke 10:18 is also emblazoned on the side of the shoes (which tells the story of Satan’s expulsion from heaven), the sneakers – in an effort to emphasize the Bible verse reference – are going for $1,018 a pair.