The most popular Nike sneakers of all time

Few would argue with the claim that Nike is one of the greatest sneaker manufacturers in the world.

The models produced by her can be seen everywhere, they are willingly used both for sports and as casual shoes. Competitors no longer even dream of pushing the company out of the place it occupies on the Olympus of the sneaker market.

In essence, each of Nike models becomes very popular (to be sure, some of them even go into the category of collectibles and are sold for fabulous money). It is not realistic to single out any special Nikes among this variety. However, it can be noted that those who beat sales records, and in general are recognized by various experts as the “most-most”.

Nike Blazer

These basketball shoes went on sale in 1973. The first to wear them was professional basketball player George "The Iceman" Gervin, considered one of the 50 greatest players in NBA history. Today, the Nike Blazer is no longer marketed as a basketball shoe, but has evolved into a nostalgic piece designed for everyday wear. Very simple in appearance, they continue to enjoy high popularity. And according to Bernie Gross, creative director of sneaker retailer Extra Butter, Nike could well revive the Blazer's former glory with something really interesting.

Nike Air Max 1

According to Ankur Amin, CEO of TGS (the parent company of Extra Butter and several other retailers), the model sold in huge numbers and even came to represent an era, a way of thinking and a way of life. In his opinion, this is one of the most significant sneakers in the history of the company. Although Amin likes the Air Force 1 more on the outside, he cannot help but recognize the uniqueness of the Air Max 1, which first appeared in 1987. Agree with him and Derek Curry (Derek Curry), the owner of the network of boutiques Sneaker Politics. In his opinion, the Air Max 1 is a versatile shoe that suits every situation and has stood the test of time perfectly.

Nike Air Max 90

The shoe was originally called the Air Max III until it was re-released in 2000 and named after the year it first hit the market. An original color scheme of white, black and gray was chosen to make the white sole appear even thicker than it really is. The result is a timeless design that screams 90s at the same time. Together with the Air Max 1, this model is one of the most popular and sold models. At one time, Nike even specially released a pair of Nike Air Max 90 for President George W. Bush.

Nike Air Force 1

This model is available in various colors. But it was the all-white model (white-on-white colors) that became the most popular. Somewhat less popular is the all-black “black on black” model. One of the distinguishing features of the Air Force 1 is a small medallion attached to the bottom of the laces, engraved with "AF-1". The original Air Force 1s were released in 1982, discontinued in 1984, and then re-released in 1986. Interestingly, this model, which has long become a classic, is used not only for everyday wear, but also for professional sports. The Air Force 1 has also become a favorite among sneaker collectors.

Nike Air Jordan 1

The Air Jordan brand was, as the name suggests, designed for basketball player Michael Jordan. Under it, a variety of sportswear and shoes are produced. The very first model of sneakers appeared in 1984 and had a red and black color. It was designed exclusively for Jordan himself. The Air Jordan 1 was released in retail in 1985 and was sold until 1986. At the same time, consumers could choose among several other color options. Subsequently, the model was re-released in 1994, 2001-2004 and 2007-2018.

Interestingly, the red and black color of the original model was an excellent advertisement for the Air Jordan 1. The fact is that in those years there was a rule according to which basketball shoes had to have 51% white (in 2000, such an absurdity was abandoned). For wearing the "wrong" shoes, Jordan was fined $5000 per game. The legendary basketball player's "deficiency" created a rebellious halo around the Air Jordan 1, which was then skillfully used by Nike marketers. As a result, sneakers began to be sold in huge quantities, bringing in billions in revenue.