Tom Sachs and NikeCraft Reveal the Continued Innovation of the Mars Yard Sneaker with Mars Yard 3.0

NikeCraft has unveiled the Mars Yard 3.0, marking the first release since 2017 and the resumption of the Tom Sachs collaboration following workplace controversy. The innovative sneaker features complete re-engineering while maintaining its iconic aesthetic, and will be available September 5 through a unique challenge-based system.

The Evolution Continues

Seven years after the last Mars Yard release, NikeCraft is introducing the Mars Yard 3.0—a completely reimagined take on Tom Sachs' aerospace-inspired footwear. Despite its familiar appearance, this latest iteration represents a ground-up redesign that prioritizes both performance and the brand's core philosophy of earning rather than simply purchasing coveted items.

"At a glance, nothing about the Mars Yard 3.0 has changed from the previous iteration," explains Tom Sachs, the sculptor and designer behind NikeCraft. "But while this shoe looks like earlier Mars Yard footwear, it couldn't be more different. Every single thing is completely new—the tooling, midsole, outsole, toe clip, heel clip and feel."

Technical Innovation Under the Hood

The Mars Yard 3.0 incorporates several significant technological advances:

Enhanced Durability and Comfort

• Natural rubber outsole for increased longevity
• Soft React foam midsole for superior cushioning
• Carbon fiber shank providing enhanced support and energy return

Improved Fit and Protection

• Redesigned lacing system with 4-millimeter ribbed polyester laces infused with Nike Running technology
• Blucher-style eye stay with staggered eyelets for better foot shape accommodation
• TPU toe cap responding to wear tester feedback for increased protection
• TPU heel clip for additional stride stability

Sustainable Design Philosophy

Even the packaging reflects Sachs' commitment to thoughtful design—while visually similar to previous versions, it's been completely re-engineered from scratch to be reusable, embodying the brand's sustainability ethos.

The I.S.R.U. Challenge System

True to NikeCraft tradition, the Mars Yard 3.0 won't be available through conventional retail channels. Instead, Sachs has developed the I.S.R.U. (In-Situ Resource Utilization) app and challenge system, designed to foster self-discipline and meaningful daily routines.

"Mars Yards have always been hard to get, and they're always going to be hard to get," states Sachs. "If you want them, you're going to have to work for them. Maybe not all of the challenges are for you. That's OK. What matters is that you do what resonates."

The weekly challenges, distributed through the NikeCraft Instagram and the I.S.R.U. app, mark the first time a Mars Yard activation is open to participants worldwide. This global approach reflects Sachs' vision of using the sneaker as a vehicle for broader cultural engagement.

Cultural Impact and Artistic Vision

Sachs positions NikeCraft as more than a footwear collaboration—it's an art project that reaches audiences through "the sculpture known as the shoe." The accompanying documentary, "A Brief History of the Mars Yard," chronicles the brand's evolution and Sachs' consistent pursuit of refined simplicity.

"The values of NikeCraft haven't changed, but they have been refined over the past 20 years," notes Sachs. "These two decades are a further reminder that art is in everything—and is showcased through the Mars Yard in the ultimate art gallery of the streets."

The Mars Yard 3.0 release comes nearly two years after Nike paused its collaboration with Sachs following serious workplace allegations. In early 2023, former studio employees came forward with claims of toxic workplace conditions, including:

• Allegations of sexual harassment and inappropriate behavior
• Reports of violent outbursts, including throwing objects at employees
• Claims of demanding bizarre workplace rituals and strict behavioral codes
• Accusations of creating a "cult-like" studio environment with inadequate pay

The allegations, first reported by Curbed and later detailed by Hyperallergic and Artnet News, painted a picture of an abusive work environment where employees described feeling "demeaned, dehumanized, and subject to violent outbursts and unwelcome sexually-charged comments."

Nike initially expressed being "deeply concerned by the very serious allegations" and confirmed in May 2023 that they were "not working with Tom's studio at this time." However, the company resumed the partnership in September 2024, stating their work with Sachs would continue while upholding "shared passion for team, product, and storytelling excellence."

Sachs' Public Response

In May 2023, Sachs published an apology in The New York Times, stating he "deeply regrets" that anyone felt "less than supported, safe and fulfilled" in his studio. He committed to professionalizing his operations and implementing proper HR policies, though he maintained that he had "never harassed anyone."

The Mars Yard 3.0 represents both a technical evolution and a cultural moment, demonstrating how innovation continues even amid controversy, while raising important questions about accountability and redemption in the creative industries.