When it comes to choosing a pair of sneakers for everyday wear, there are countless options to pick from. From high-end designer brands like Balenciaga to Off-White, to athletic shoes such as Adidas and Puma, it can be quite overwhelming to decide which pair is right for you. If you’re struggling, Nike Air Force 1s are a solid option that should definitely be on your radar.
Originally released in 1982, the Air Force 1 was designed by Bruce Kilgore and was made to be a basketball shoe. While this might be surprising to hear, considering it has become such a cultural icon today, it was discontinued by Nike in 1984 due to low sales. However, it was officially brought back in 1986, and the rest is history.
With their distinctive design and comfortable fit, they have transcended their athletic roots to become a popular choice for casual wear. But, what about everyday walking? While the Air Force 1 may seem like a suitable option for walking there are a few factors that you should consider before making them your go-to walking sneaker.
For instance, are they durable enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily use? And are they comfortable enough to provide adequate support and cushioning for long strolls? In this guide, we’ll delve into the pros and cons of using the AF1 as a walking shoe, exploring their design, comfort, and durability.
As mentioned in the introduction, Nike Air Force 1s was first introduced back in 1982 as a hardcourt model. Upon launch, it was met with lukewarm reception. However, around 1986, hype surrounding the silhouette shot up and it quickly became a staple for athletes and sneaker enthusiasts globally.
Known for its thick, cushioned Air midsole and supple leather construction, it also features a large Swoosh on the sidewalls. While it debuted in “Triple White,” it’s now available in a wide variety of colours, collaborations, and styles, including low-top, mid-top, and high-top versions.
Nike Air Force 1s have a classic design that is extremely popular. Boasting a thick, Air-cushioned midsole, it’s crafted predominantly from leather. That said, over the past four decades many other material options have been introduced, including pony hair, nubuck, and suede.
A series of neatly-aligned perforations line the toebox for optimal ventilation, and to the sides you’ll find a pair of Swooshes. As mentioned before, the AF1 also comes in low-cut, mid-cut, and high-cut styles, with some pairs being equipped with Velcro straps and rollercoaster buckles for extra support.
Nike Air Force 1s are world-renowned for its durability and long-lasting quality. They are made from high-quality materials are built to withstand the wear and tear of regular use. However, over the years, with the rise of mass production, specific models have experienced some QC issues, including bad stitching, excess glue, and warped leather. But these only apply to a very small sample.
Nike Air Force 1s provide a comfortable fit due to their thick Air sole. The shoe’s design also offers ample support and shock absorption, which can make them ideal walking long distances. With that in mind, some sneakerheads may find it to be on the heavier side, which can cause fatigue over extended periods.
Generally speaking, Nike Air Force 1s fit true to size (TTS). This means that you should be able to purchase your regular shoe size when buying a pair. We recommend that you try them on before purchasing to ensure a comfortable fit, as some sneakerheads may find that they need to size up or down.
To conclude, Nike Air Force 1s are indeed suitable for everyday walking, but they may not be the best choice for everyone. The shoe’s thick Air midsole provides ample cushioning and shock absorption, which can make them comfortable for walking long distances. However, the weight may cause some discomfort for some people.
Additionally, those who require specific support may need to consider other shoe options. Ultimately, whether Air Force 1s are a suitable choice for everyday walking will depend on personal preferences and individual needs.
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