Initially released in 1982, the Nike Air Force 1 was designed by Nike footwear designer Bruce Kilgore and became the first basketball shoe to utilize Nike's innovative "Air" technology. Its distinct silhouette, characterized by a chunky sole and perforated toe box, transitioned the Air Force 1 from basketball courts to the streets, becoming a lifestyle staple. Over the years, the Air Force 1 has been reimagined in various designs, materials, and limited editions. It has also seen numerous high-profile collaborations with other brands, artists, and designers, including names like Louis Vuitton, CLOT, and Billie Eilish, further enhancing the sneaker's iconic status in the world of streetwear and fashion.
About the Brand
Nike was founded in 1964 by University of Oregon track coach Bill Bowerman and his former student Phil Knight, initially operating under the name Blue Ribbon Sports as a distributor of Japanese running shoes. In 1971, the company rebranded as Nike, inspired by the Greek goddess of victory, and introduced the Swoosh logo, symbolizing speed and movement. Nike revolutionized athletic footwear with the development of Air cushioning technology in 1979, which provided superior shock absorption and energy return and became a defining feature in iconic products like the Air Force 1 and Air Max series. The Air Jordan line, launched in 1984 through a partnership with basketball legend Michael Jordan, bridged the gap between sports performance and lifestyle, becoming a cultural phenomenon and increasing Nike's popularity. Through continued innovation and collaborations with designers and brands such as Virgil Abloh's Off-White and Supreme, Nike has solidified its position as a leader in both athletic and fashion markets.
