It’s common knowledge that fashion repeats itself, as evidenced by the resurgence of vintage brands such as Champion and Fila. On the sneaker front, one of the latest trends (from a few years ago) has recently resurfaced again — the popularity of the Nike Air Force 1. In fact, Nike’s beloved model has seen some new colorways as well as collaborations. The shoe is almost as popular now as ever! But what brought it back into the spotlight? The story of its revival is truly special. To understand it, we have to take a trip to the 80s.
In 1982, Nike called for designers to make a shoe that embodied the popularity of basketball and the Nike Tailwind, which had been released four years prior. Bruce Kilgore was the primary designer for the Air Force 1. The shoe was mostly inspired by the Nike Tailwind & Nike Approach Hiking Book, as evidenced by the thick sole usually out of place on a sneaker like the Air Force 1. After the shoe’s creation, Kilgore brought in designing legend Tinker Hatfield to stress test it. Hatfield’s experience with the Air Force 1 was enough to push him into the world of sneakers and away from architecture. This was only a hint at how successful the shoe would be! It got Hatfield to focus on the world of sneakers, and to design many of the most popular Jordan’s as well as other sneakers.
The first iteration of the Nike Air Force 1 featured air technology, which was new to the world of basketball. The threaded outsole made it easier for players to move, a belt at the top of the shoe as well as a variable width lacing system worked to keep the shoe on the wearer’s foot while remaining comfortable. As more models of the shoe came along, the low top Air Force 1 had risen in popularity. Its initial boost in popularity was due to the success of the shoe in the world of hip-hop. When the rapper Nelly dropped his 2002 single “Air Force Ones feat. Kyjuan, Ali, and Murphy Lee,” it introduced listeners to a new, sleek shoe. This led to more collaborations between rappers and Nike, such as Jay-Z, Fat Joe, and Young Jeezy. The shoe was everywhere in the 2000s and helped define the decade. However, as the years went on, the Air Force 1 was ripped from the spotlight and became more associated with violence and gang culture. Up until recently, and much like the Nike Cortez, this led the brand to be pushed to the wayside.
Over the past few years, the Nike Air Force 1 has experienced a resurgence in popularity. This is mainly due to fashion constantly recycling. As the sneaker started to fly off shelves once again, more and more brands began to flock to Nike and collaborate with the famed shoe. Some of these collaborations include the Nike OFF-WHITE x Air Force 1 Low, the Supreme x Nike Air Force 1 “Camo,” and CLOT x Nike Air Force 1. New models also stemmed from the Air Force 1s popularity, like the Nike SF Air Force 1 and the Air Force 1 Foamposite. The Air Force 1 has been a hit since it’s conception! Even though it’s slowed down a bit, the shoe is still at the top of its game.
The Nike Air Force brand has produced new models along with new colorways that are gaining traction. These colorways include Ghost Aqua/Sail, and Green Abyss/Light Blue Fury/Spirit Teal/Indigo Force. The shoe’s popularity is only “going up” following each new release, which helps contribute to why it’s so beloved amongst fans.
From 1982 to today, the Nike Air Force 1 has exploded in popularity and is seen on the feet of athletes and models alike. Although there have been small dips in its popularity, the shoe has remained at the forefront of fashion, as it continues to quickly sell out and produce new models. As fashion recycles itself, the Air Force 1 is always able to find its place by staying fresh and sleek! The bulky look can work well with skinny jeans and thick joggers, as it attracts attention to itself whilst keeping the outfit fresh. The Nike Air Force 1 is truly a classic. Despite its ups and downs, the shoe will continue to remain on the front lines of fashion, being beloved by sneakerheads everywhere.
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