Sneakers and sneakers have long moved from the category of sports shoes to the category of the most comfortable and popular shoes. They are indispensable in creating casual looks. However, the model is different.
Only high-quality sneakers from well-known manufacturers can make an outfit truly fashionable. One of the latter can be called Nike. Since its founding, the company has been tirelessly improving its shoe models, presenting new lines, many of which are today called legendary. The following options can be considered popular Nike sneakers:
- Cortez.
- Blazer.
- Air Force 1.
- Air Jordan.
- Dunk.
- Air Max.
- Zoom.
Nike Cortez
Originally, this lightweight, sleek design with a soft foam sole, a rubber outsole for durability, and a raised heel to prevent running injuries didn't have a memorable name.It is noteworthy that the TG-24/Shoe silhouette was developed when a company called Nike did not yet exist - there was only a small distribution company that collaborated with Onitsuka Tiger.
Reference. The name of the line was initially changed to Mexico - in honor of the future Olympics, which was to be held in this city. Then it was changed to Aztek. However, the management of Adidas protested - this name was consonant with their signature line of sneakers. Then Cortez was invented - in honor of the leader of the conquistadors who defeated the Aztecs.
It was this line, together with Marathon and Obori, that became the first products produced by the Nike brand, which appeared in 1971. Over the course of its long history, the model has changed and undergone various modifications. From exclusively sports shoes, they have evolved into popular street shoes, becoming an integral part of the brand's success.
Today on sale you can find options made of suede, leather and nylon. Sports shoes differ in their silhouette. Classic is a model closer to the original.
Basic is positioned as updated.
The main characteristics of all Cortez models are lightweight, high strength, wear resistance, and non-slip due to the special coating of the sole.
Nike Blazer
The basketball model was first released two years after the appearance of the Nike brand - in 1973. The fact that it immediately became widely known was contributed by George “Iceman” Gervin, one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history, who wore it to competitions. Today, these shoes are no longer considered exclusively basketball shoes and are often purchased for everyday wear.
Remarkable, but distinguished by a rather simple design, the only noticeable element of which is a large swoosh (Nike emblem), it is incredibly popular. The mid-height boot provides an excellent fit, the stable wide and flat sole make this model a comfortable option for long walks.
Nike Air Force 1
The original line, which featured the Cupsole sole for the first time, was released in 1982. After two years it was discontinued, and in 1986 it was “re-released” again. Featuring high wear resistance, the shoes were positioned as basketball shoes. Called a classic, today the model is available in many color variations, but the most stylish and popular are the “white on white” or “black on black” options. The “feature” of the sneakers is a small medallion with the inscription “AF-1”, fixed at the bottom of the laces. Air Force 1 is a coveted item among collectors.
Nike Air Jordan
Another legendary line, the first model of which appeared in 1984. It was made in a red and black design and was intended exclusively for the famous basketball player Michael Jordan.
Reference. During this period, companies such as Adidas or Converse produced basketball shoes exclusively in white - according to the rules of the game. The introduction of Nike Air Jordan in bold, custom colorways changed that trend. Jordan was repeatedly fined for disregarding the rules, which gave this model a legendary rebellious flair, which Nike marketers skillfully used when they launched the sneakers into mass sales in 1985.
Today models are also available in other colors.The classic look features a mid-height cuff, flat tongue and leather overlays. Of course, during its existence the line has been somewhat modified and improved. The model is used both for sports and for everyday wear.
Nike Dunk
Today, the models of this collection (1985), which were originally positioned as basketball shoes, are the best shoes for skateboarding or parkour. The special tread pattern provides excellent grip on any flat surfaces and asphalt, and the relatively thin sole allows you to “feel” the board. These sneakers are also widely used as options for everyday wear. The long history of the line, rich in all sorts of improvements and changes, makes SB Dunks are more than just a skate shoe—they've become a staple of modern sneaker culture and street fashion.
The insole features an innovative Zoom Air system and the tongue is padded. Everyday options are available with lightweight soles.
Nike Air Max
The collection became widely known in 1987, although the famous Air sole was developed back in 1979.
Reference. The innovation consisted of replacing the conventional foam previously used in the sole with a special air “cushion”. It greatly extended the life of the shoes, preventing sagging and deformation.
Today the line is considered one of the most significant, popular and numerous in the history of the company. Unique solution — make the “cushion” with air visible through a special hole in the heel area — contributed amazingly to her popularity. Over time, the collection was “reprinted” several times.The Max Light lines appeared with an additional “air cushion” in the front area, Max Big Window with an enlarged opening for display, etc.
The design of the Air Max was modified, the sneakers were complemented with various elements, such as a waffle sole and reflective details. However, the presence of an air gap remained unchanged. Thanks to its excellent fit and high level of cushioning, the line is in demand not only as a running shoe, but also as a comfortable option for everyday use.
Nike Zoom
The name of the line, presented in 1996, was given by innovative shock absorption technology. Initially, the models were positioned as shoes for athletes and runners. However, they soon became popular among basketball players. This was facilitated by the “gold” that the famous basketball player Anfernee Hardaway won while wearing these sneakers.
The upper of the shoe is a combination of several materials. The rubber wings of the outsole seem to wrap around your feet on both sides. The air layer in the sole of the model is very thin and light. In the heel and toe there is a shock-absorbing insert, typical for most models of the collection.
Nike's past and present achievements in the field of manufacturing sporting goods allow the company to maintain its status as one of the world's largest manufacturers in its segment. It is quite possible that the lines that appeared quite recently will also acquire the status of legendary with the passage of time.