Air Force 1

Arguably the most recognizable Nike sneaker of all time. The Nike Air Force 1 has been around for nearly 40 years, blessing both old and new sneaker generations with classic and brand new colourways every year. But what turned out to be a cultural icon started off as an on-court weapon for basketball’s biggest stars. And it’ll still be here for many years to come.

Introduced in 1982, the Nike Air Force 1 was Nike’s first-ever basketball trainer to utilize the brand’s trademarked Nike Air technology. Which featured an Air unit housed within the thick sole and provides cushioning and impact protection. Because of the advanced technology, the hoopers were delighted.

The Nike Air Force 1 was designed by Bruce Kilgore and appeared in High, Mid, and Low versions. Both the High and the Mid featured straps for a secure fit. The most popular model, however, is the AF1 Low. Its streamlined and ever-so-popular design united a lot of sneakerheads. As the “Triple White” colourway becomes the highest-selling rendition of the coveted silhouette.

It’s surprising to know that the success that the Nike Air Force 1 has today wasn’t even meant to happen. Just two years after its debut in 1982, the Nike AF1 ceased production. But because of the sneaker culture in Baltimore, the model dodged the Nike vault and returned in 1986 to bring even more colourways than ever before. Hip-hop also popularized the sneaker as various rappers and celebrities made the Air Force 1 the focal point of some songs.

The Nike Air Force 1’s continuous trend didn’t come without a change. In 2007 during the model’s 25^th anniversary, the iconic shiny metallic lace dubrae became rectangular. Compared to the earlier versions that had them in a circular shape. Ever since then, Nike labeled some AF1 versions as ‘07 to highlight the subtle change.

Through the years, there have been more AF1 silhouettes showcasing various features. The LV8 has a higher sole platform. There are a bunch of hybrids. There are also women’s exclusive models such as the Shadow, Pixel, Sage, and Rebel.

And of course, who could forget the popular collaborations such as the Playstation, Off-White, Comme des Garcons, Travis Scott, Supreme, and a whole lot more.

With over 2000 colourways launched (and counting), the Nike Air Force 1 is still definitely a “force” to be reckoned with. The pioneer of Nike Air in basketball shoes transcended into mainstream and pop culture as one of the most popular sneakers in existence.

Check out the latest and hottest Nike Air Force 1 colourways below: