The History of the Nike Air Force 1
While the Nike Air Force 1 was introduced to the world in 1982, its story actually starts a little earlier, in 1979.
The first running shoes from Nike to feature the now famous Nike Air technology, the Tailwind, hits the market, and Bruce Kilgore takes advantage of this innovation by incorporating it into his Air Force silhouette. The layer of ‘Air’ added into the sole of the shoe was a revolutionary step in the history of sport.
Kilgore’s shoe would change basketball and sneaker culture forever. Originally designed for basketball with its superior cushioning, it also became a huge success within the hip-hop community.
The Air Force 1 quickly created interest in the sneaker world when it was worn in 1983 by some of the best NBA players of the time, including Michael Cooper, Bobby Jones, and Moses Malone. Yet Nike didn’t manage to maintain its popularity. In an era of constant innovation, the simple but functional sneaker fell into oblivion. It led to Nike ceasing production of the Air Force just two years after their original release.
Then, when three retailers in Baltimore reintroduced the Air Force 1 in the Royal Blue and Chocolate Brown colour combinations in 1985, the 3,000 pairs sold out almost immediately. These three retailers are considered the saviours of the Air Force 1 for this reason. Not much time passed until the sneaker could once again be seen all over the streets.
After one-off AF1 designs were released between 1986 to 1991, interest in the shoes soon spread throughout the East Coast. Nike capitalised on this by releasing limited stocks of special and premium editions around events and holidays. By the mid-1990s-2000s, the sneaker was so popular among collectors that shops could not keep up with demand.
Finally, the shoe became a cultural icon when world-famous rappers and hip-hop artists started wearing the Air Force 1. At the time, the line between basketball and hip-hop blurred and they started adopting elements of each other. Especially in Harlem, New York, artists adopted Forces as their own shoes. This led to the neighbourhood becoming the sole location for the latest colorways. Wanted to score the most sought-after pairs? Then you knew you had to be in uptown Manhattan in those days! This also gave rise to the nickname 'Uptowns' for the sneakers.
Today, the classic white version of the Air Force 1 is still the most popular. This icon is not only made from high-quality, comfortable leather, but with its clean lines and historic character, can be combined with almost any style. On the streets, you can see the Nike Air Force paired artfully with jeans, brightening up a summer dress, even adding a casual touch to a suit! For more inspiration, check out our guide to styling the white Air Force 1.
The classic white Air Force 1 is also available as a 'Next Nature' version - this sustainable version has an upper made with Nike Flyleather, which feels and looks like real leather, but is made with at least 50% recycled leather fibres combined with synthetic material. The midsole and outsole are made of Nike Grind Rubber, which is made from leftovers during the production process.
Nike Air Force 1 Variations
Over the years, the classic high and low design of the Nike Air Force 1 has been joined by a number of special variations and different versions.
Nike Air Force 1 LXX
With the LXX, Nike breaks the clean design up with a more deconstructed look. The upper is traditionally made of leather, while the Swoosh and the heel tab are made of a kind of snakeskin suede.
In addition, these design elements are highlighted by alternating colour accents.
Nike Air Force 1 Sage
The Nike Air Force 1 Sage changes the traditional silhouette a little. The transitions on the upper are rounded and therefore appear a little softer. This gives the sneaker a minimalist look that is particularly popular with women.
The slightly different sole and the narrower-looking upper also give the sneaker a special appearance.
Nike Air Force 1 Shadow
The Air Force Shadow is a version that was designed especially for women.
All the important design elements, such as the Swoosh, the Air branding or the toe box, come with an edge - or, as the name suggests, a shadow. This gives the sneaker a slightly chunky yet very feminine look.
Nike Air Force 1 Pixel
One of the latest variations of the Nike Air Force is the Pixel version. The sole has a chunky look that consists of individual, square parts like a pixelated image. The branding on the tongue and heel also reflect the pixel effect.
Another highlight is the Swoosh, which is not sewn on but rather stamped in.
Nike Air Force 1 Sustainable
Sustainability is currently a big topic at Nike and they have also given the Air Force various sustainable makeovers. There are the NRG Recycled Looks, with an upper made of recycled materials and special colours.
The Air Force Crater (pictured) is also made from production waste and recycled materials.
Nike Air Force 1 GORE-TEX
Traditionally, Nike brings its popular Air Force onto the market in a few GORE-TEX variants at the end of the year. The high and low models always get trendy, but very clean and mostly dark colorways.
The sneakers are waterproof but breathable, robust and keep your feet warm - especially for the cold season.
Nike Air Force 1 React
The React version takes the traditional design of the AF1 up a notch, because it comes with the React insole in addition to the Air unit, giving the sneaker twice the comfort.
The insole also has a light profile that promotes blood circulation.
Nike Air Force 1: Answering Your Questions
Why is it called Air Force 1?
As you may have already guessed, the Nike Air Force 1 was named after the Air Force One aircraft, i.e. the American President's plane. It was chosen to emphasise the superior comfort and protection the model's revolutionary Air technology provided. As the first basketball sneaker to feature such technology, it needed a name with a big impact.
How long has the Nike Air Force 1 been around?
The Nike Air Force 1 has been around for more than 40 years. First introduced as a basketball shoe in 1982, the iconic silhouette celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2022.
Did Nike discontinue Air Force 1?
While the model suffered from a short discontinuation in 1984, it made a comeback shortly afterwards in 1986 due to high demand. The Air Force 1 remains one of the brand's best-selling models even today, continuously updated with new designs, collaborations, and unique colorways.
Who made Air Force 1 popular?
In 1982, upon its release, Nike signed six NBA players to wear the Nike Air Force 1 on court. Moses Malone, Bobby Jones, Michael Cooper, Calvin Natt, Mychal Thompson and Jamaal Wilkes are credited with showcasing the sneaker's capabilities on court, solidifying its reputation as a top basketball sneaker.
In the hip-hop scene, rappers like Jay-Z and Fat Joe played a huge role in making the model a global icon. Rapper Nelly even wrote an entire song based around the sneaker, 'Air Force Ones' (2002). Today, the sneaker remains a staple in streetwear fashion.
Are Air Force 1 unisex?
The Air Force 1 is a unisex sneaker, released in both men's and women's sizing, as well as kids'. At Nike, on paper, a women's Air Force 1 is 0.5 centimetres larger than a men's shoe. Also, a WMNS shoe may feel just a little narrower, because the heel is slightly slimmer. So if you're purchasing an Air Force 1 marketed towards a different gender, you may need to size up or down accordingly.
What is the difference between the AF1 and the AF1 '07?
The main difference between the AF1 and AF1 '07 is visible in the sole. The sole on the '07 is slightly higher. And whereas the AF1 deliberately opted for a classic basketball look, the AF1 '07 opted for different materials. You can say that the Air Force 1 has a classic look while the Air Force 1 '07 has more fashionable details.
How can you spot a fake Air Force 1?
You don't recognise fake Air Forces by one fixed indicator. In fact, it is a combination of indicators that vary from pair to pair. However, you can use these indicators to virtually determine whether a pair of AF1s are genuine:
Material and colour, stitching, smell (fakes might have a strong chemical odour), weight (fakes tend to be lighter than the real thing), placement of the Swoosh, shape of the heel, discrepancies on the tongue, nose, insole and outsole, errors on the size label, incorrect product code (SKU), flimsy or faded packaging, lack of or discrepancies in accessories and, finally, judging prices and sellers.
How does the Air Force 1 fit?
The AF1 falls true to size. This means that the shoe falls true to your real size. However, it is important to remember that the Mids and Highs are tighter than the Lows. We therefore recommend ordering half a size up for these models.
How do you tie the Air Force 1?
For guidance on tying your Air Force 1 laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!
Is the Nike Air Force 1 made of leather?
Many standard Air Forces are made of stiff leather. In addition, the midsole is made from foam, and the sole from rubber.
However, Nike is also marketing more eco-friendly versions of their most popular models. The Air Force 1 Next Nature is a sustainable version of the classic model, constructed from at least 20% recycled materials by weight. Synthetic leather and recycled rubber outsoles replace the original materials, while still retaining the same durability and comfort of the original design.
Next Nature isn't officially marketed as vegan, as Nike hasn't confirmed whether the adhesives and dyes used in the shoe are free from animal-based ingredients.
Are Air Force 1 breathable?
Due to its thick leather upper and padding, the Air Force 1 isn't credited with being particularly breathable. However, variations including the Flyknit use materials such as mesh on the upper, which do improve the breathability.
Are Nike Air Force 1 heavy?
Compared to other sneakers, the Air Force 1 can be considered relatively heavy. Their thick rubber sole, leather upper, and more durable construction all contribute to its weight.
Is the Air Force 1 waterproof?
The Air Force 1 have perforations in the toe box, which means they are not waterproof. Water-resistant versions of the Air Force 1 do exist however, such as the Gore-Tex version.
Do Air Force 1 crease easily?
Because the Air Force 1 is made of leather, it is prone to creasing, especially in the toebox area. You could consider using sneaker shields when not in use, or storing them on shoe trees to prevent this.
How do you clean Air Force 1s?
An Air Force 1 is best cleaned by hand. For the best results, use one of the following combinations:
- 1 tablespoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon hydrogen peroxide, 1 teaspoon water (for white leather)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 tablespoon baking soda, 1 tablespoon water (for white leather)
- 2 tablespoons baking soda, 1 tablespoon white vinegar, 1 teaspoon water (for all leather)
- 2 drops mild detergent/dish soap/sneaker cleaner, 1 cup/240ml warm water (for leather, patent leather, mesh and other fabrics)
Mix and apply to the sneaker with a toothbrush, and gently scrub. Wipe it off with a damp cloth and allow to air dry.
For suede or nubuck, use a suede brush to remove surface dirt, a suede or pencil eraser for scuffs, and white vinegar or suede cleaner for stains. Dip a microfibre cloth into the liquid and lightly dab it on, let dry, then brush it over.
For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.
Laces can be cleaned with the same solutions and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.
Where can I buy Nike Air Force 1s?
Do you have your eye on this model? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse the Nike Air Force 1 at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on Air Force 1 restocks and new releases!
Popular Nike Air Force 1 Colorways
Nike have released many successful colorways on the AF1, and these are some of the most popular and all-time favourites.
Nike Air Force 1 Low Retro 'Linen' | 845053-201
The 'Linen' was first launched in 2001 for the Japanese market and later re-released exclusively for Kith Miami customers in 2016. The sneaker will made a wider comeback in the summer of 2024.
The light brown leather on the base is given playful pink accents, applied to the Swooshes, tongue, and heel branding. A white midsole and a rubber outsole in pink results in a design that is both simple and sophisticated.
Travis Scott X Air Force 1 Low 'Cactus' | CN2405-900
The 'Cactus' was released in 2019 and reflects Travis Scott's signature DIY aesthetic. It blends workwear-inspired materials with bold patterns, with an upper created from canvas, corduroy, suede, leather, and wool in earthy tones.
One standout element is the removable zippered lace cover. Another is "Cactus Jack" stitched onto one of the heel tabs.
Off-White x Nike Air Force 1 Low 'The Ten' | AO4606-100
'The Ten' is one of ten designs from 'The Ten', a series designed by Virgil Abloh for Nike in 2017. In this series, ten iconic Nike sneakers were given an Off-White makeover.
This Air Force 1 Low is white with grey suede elements. The lace-up has the famous Off-White tag in striking orange, and is characteristic for Virgil's work. The midsole features "AIR" in black, another signature of Abloh's style.
Nike WMNS Air Force 1 ’07 LX ‘Lucky Charms’ | DD1525-100
The iconic 'Triple White' received a subtle yet elegant upgrade in the 'Lucky Charms'. Fresh white leather and stitched overlays characterise the classic.
The removable gold chain with pendants gives an extra flair to the pair. These charms come in the form of a shoebox, a basketball, a star, a swoosh and the Nike and Air Force logo.
Nike Air Force 1 Tear-Away 'Pastel Reveal' | DJ6901-600
The 'Pastel Reveal' has a tear away feature, with a two-layer upper that enables you to tear off the top layer of the silhouette. The upper layer has been given a white colour in a corduroy texture. The layer below has colourful colour blocking in Arctic Punch, Sesame, and Purple Pulse.
Other small details such as mini scissors, dotted lines and the text "TEAR HERE" add to the special look of the sneaker.
Nike Air Force 1 Low Cordura 'Dark Obsidian' | HQ3822-400
The 'Dark Obsidian' is constructed from tough and durable CORDURA® fabric, complemented by soft suede overlays. The navy blue hue of the sneaker offers an understated look.
Subtle branding elements decorate the sneaker, including the CORDURA® tag on the lateral.
NOCTA x Nike Air Force 1 'Certified Lover Boy' | CZ8065-100
The Drake x Nike Air Force 1 'Certified Lover Boy' was a long-anticipated collaboration between Drake and Nike. This sneaker features a simplistic design in all-white leather, with small details on the hint at Drake.
The shoe has been given the same name as the album Drake dropped in 2021. The midsole features 'Love You Forever' in cursive letters. The collab also produced the 'Pink Foam', 'Citron Tint', and 'Palest Purple' colorways.
Nike Air Force 1 Flyknit 2.0 'Pure Platinum' | AV3042-100
The Nike Air Force 1 Flyknit 2.0 has received some excellent colorways recently, including the Nike Air Force 1 Flyknit 2.0 'Pure Platinum'.
The platinum white upper is constructed from Flyknit, with various woven panels giving the sneaker a sleek look. The design is completed with a nubuck Swoosh and heeltab.
Nike Air Force 1 Shadow 'Pistachio Frost' | CW2655-001
The 'Pistachio Frost' features an all green upper in an eclectic mix of materials. A light green suede base and smooth dark green leather overlays are paired with a tumbled leather collar and thick midsole.
The rubber outsole of the silhouette comes in another hue of green, matching the shadow 'AIR' logo on the back of the shoe.
Nike Air Force 1 Luxe 'Summit White' | DD9605-100
The design of the hard-wearing 'Summit White' features a white leather upper with a soft mesh collar, wavy eyelets, and perforated toe box.
This Air Force 1 has a padded tongue, round toe cap, and sturdy soles with full-length Air units. The finishing touch to the design are the jagged edges of the outsole that give the sneaker a rugged look.
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