Nike
Nike Shoes & Clothing
When technology and style meet at the forefront of sport fashion, you know what to turn to: Nike. Founded in 1964 by the legendary Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman, Nike was first known to the world as Blue Ribbon Sports. The company rebranded in 1971 to Nike, named after the Greek goddess of victory. For decades, Nike has been a leader in sneaker innovation with its start in the running shoe world. But, what really set them apart was the introduction of Nike Air. Air innovation was introduced in 1979 and consists of pockets of pressurized air inside a durable, flexible bag. These units provide an elastic-like feel while reducing hard impact and keeping you light on your feet. Now, Nike Air sits underfoot on dozens of silhouettes, reducing impact, keeping you light on your feet and providing that springy bounce you know and love. Whether you’re a budding baller who needs a pair of Nike basketball shoes for the hardwood, a sneakerhead whose shoe collection is never fully complete or a running aficionado who needs the very best technology to help hit new PR’s, shop JD for Nike shoes, sport fashion apparel and accessories to help lead the way.
Nike Air Changes Sport Fashion
With the introduction and implementation of Air came the line of Nike Air Max sneaker styles. Built for the streets, but offering up the cushioned comfort you love, these sneakers are every streetwear enthusiast’s dream. You’re probably already familiar with the Nike Air Max family, which spans decades of time and includes dozens of silhouettes. Classic sneakers like the Air Max 90 and Air Max 95 live on, with Nike updating and upgrading styles year-round to keep a fresh outlook on street style. Newer models like the Air Max 270 have changed the game for modern sneakerheads.
Nike Running Innovation
Aside from Nike Air, Nike has introduced additional cushioning technology that makes running even more comfortable for veterans and novices alike. From Nike React Foam that’s as resilient as it is lightweight to VaporMax Air that brings the gravity-defying bounce you crave, Nike launches the best of the best.
Nike Shoes FAQs:
Q: What is Nike's most popular shoe?
A: Nike's most popular shoe depends on the criteria—sales, cultural impact, or longevity—but overall, these are the top contenders:
Nike Air Force 1
- One of the best-selling sneakers of all time, the Nike Air Force 1 is a staple in streetwear and fashion. The all-white AF1 Low is particularly iconic.
Nike Air Jordan 1
- The Air Jordan 1, released in 1985, revolutionized basketball sneakers and sneaker culture. The "Chicago" and "Bred" colorways remain among the most sought-after.
Nike Dunk
- The Nike Dunk (both the SB and standard versions) has been a favorite among skaters and sneakerheads, especially with collaborations like Travis Scott and Off-White.
Nike Air Max Series
- The Nike Air Max 1, 90 and 95 are some of the most legendary Air Max silhouettes, known for their visible Air cushioning and timeless designs.
Nike Blazer
- Originally a basketball shoe, the Nike Blazer has become a lifestyle classic, often seen in skateboarding and casual wear.
Q: Are Air Jordan and Nike the same?
A: Yes and no. Air Jordan is a subsidiary brand of Nike, but it operates somewhat independently.
How They’re Connected:
Nike created the Air Jordan brand in 1984 when they signed Michael Jordan.
The first Air Jordan 1 was released in 1985 under Nike.
Nike still owns and manufactures Air Jordans.
How They’re Different:
While some early Jordans had Nike branding (like the Swoosh and Air logos), later models feature only Jumpman branding.
Jordan Brand has its own marketing, sponsorships and athlete endorsements, separate from Nike.
While still produced by Nike, Jordan operates like a standalone brand, with its own sneaker releases, apparel, and collaborations.
Q: What was the first Nike shoe?
A: The Moon Shoe was the first Nike shoe, created using Bill Bowerman's waffle iron. The idea for the innovative waffle sole came to him during breakfast, when he wondered if the grooves in his waffle could enhance traction for athletes. After experimenting with the waffle iron, Bowerman successfully developed the Waffle Trainer, which quickly gained popularity due to its performance-driven design and excellent grip. This original prototype, regarded as the first Nike shoe, was later sold at Sotheby’s for nearly $450,000.