Nike High Top Sneakers

Nike is known across the world and is considered the world's largest athletic apparel company. They are considered the top dogs in athletic performance and have entered the fashion world with ease. No matter where you go, you will likely see someone wearing a pair of Nikes. But where did the Nike brand get its beginnings? 

The brand was created by Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight, who had a passion for optimizing athletic shoes. After experiencing less than great shoe options throughout their coaching and playing experiences, they were ready for something better. The company started as Blue Ribbon Sports but adopted the Nike name in 1971.  

The first pair of Nike High Top Sneakers was released in 1982. Air Force ones were introduced as a basketball shoe with Nike Air cushioning technology. The shoes began to increase their popularity in 1983. Real Sports 101 explains, "Nike took six of its most popular NBA players to kick off the Air Force 1 campaign, targeting the high-top sneakers toward a basketball audience". The marketing tactic worked and Nike High Top Sneakers are still a bestseller today. In 2021, the brand reported over 17 billion dollars in sales

Nike Men's Tennis Shoe black

Photo source: Amazon.com

History of High-Top Sneakers

The first pair of high-top sneakers came just behind the invention of basketball itself. Spalding created the first basketball shoe in the early 1900s. Not long after, Converse released their first high-top sneakers, known as the Chuck Taylors. The high-top was created to help support the ankle and was formed similarly to popular boots men wore at the time. However, high-tops have come a long way since the 1990s. In fact, many celebrities love to rep with a fresh pair of Nikes as they have exploded into the fashion world. 

Celebrities in Nikes

While Nike High Top sneakers may have started as a basketball shoe style, they have also morphed into a fashion statement. Many models and celebrities are known for their fantastic sneaker collections. For example, Mark Wahlberg's sneaker collection is valued at over 100,000 dollars. He also collaborated with the Jordan brand to create a pair of Air Jordan 4's for his restaurant, Wahlburgers. Justin Timberlake is also known for his impressive collection. He owns several pairs of limited edition sneakers, such as the Don C X Nike Air Force One Sneakers in a truly unique "AMEX Blue".

Other stars such as Travis Scott are known for not only their sneaker collection but their collaborations as well. The newest Travis Scott Air Jordan is a great-looking basketball shoe. It was released in the early summer of 2022. Colorways include sail, dark mocha, and university red. The shoes keep the same reverse swoosh as previous sneakers from Travis Scott. His Cactus Jack brand is also on the sneakers' midsole, insole, heel, and tongue. 

Even sneaker king Kanye West has collaborated with the Nike brand. The Nike Air Yeezy may be one of the most anticipated footwear items on the fashion culture market. Kanye West explained his idea for the collaboration, "Conceptually, it was made for a person that was walking on another planet. So it's like almost a shoe-like space boot". 

Whether you like celebrities or not, some very impressive shoes have hit the market. You can always count on Nike to keep things fresh and offer some great colors. Here are some great options if you are ready to hop on the Nike High Top Sneakers trend. 

Nike Men's Tennis Shoe

This Nike Men's Tennis Shoe is an excellent choice for your next pair of Nike High Top sneakers. These shoes have a rubber herringbone sole which is excellent for durability and traction. They also feature a crisp leather upper and low-cut padded collar. The Nike High Top Sneaker has retro vibes as its design stems from styles popular in the mid-80s. 

This shoe comes in White Black/White Onyx, Black/White, White/Team Red Gum/Light Brown, Black, White, Black/White Onyx, White Obsidian, White Game Royal, Black Game Royal/White Onyx, White/University Red/White Onyx, Black/White Multicolor. These color options give you a great variety to choose from when picking your next pair of Nike High Top Sneakers. 

This pair of Nike High Top sneakers is rated 4.5 out of 5-stars. They are offered at a price range of $59 to $269. 

Nike Men's Tennis Shoe

Photo source: Amazon.com

 

Nike Men's AIR Force 1 '07 Basketball Shoes

Nike Men's AIR Force 1 '07 Basketball Shoes may be the most popular Nike High Top sneakers. These shoes are so special; They've had a song written about them. Even though the shoes first hit the market in the early '80s, these shoes were all the rage in the early 2000s. 

In 2002, Nelly released the instant hit "Air Force One's". The shoe offers crisp overlays with bold accents. They have a padded, high-cut collar with the traditional ankle strap and lace-up fronts. The Nike High Top sneakers also offer toe perforations for breathability to keep your feet cool. 

This Nike High Top Sneakers option is available in White, Black, White/White, Black/Black, Dark Driftwood/Hot Curry, and White/Black. These shoes would look great with denim or a laid-back athleisure style. They come highly rated at 4.6 out of 5-stars and are available between $122 to $329 based on size and color selection. 

Nike Men's AIR Force 1 '07 Basketball Shoes

Photo source: Amazon.com

 

Nike Men's Lunar Force 1 Duckboot '17

If you like a strong masculine and military-type style, check out the Men's Lunar Force 1 Duckboot '17 Nike High Top sneakers. These shoes are both leather and synthetic with a leather sole. The nylon collar is padded and quilted. They also have the Lunarlon sole with Nike Air cushioning for comfort. Nike created the shoes with the specialty Lunarlon sole in 2015. 

Run Repeat explains, "the brand decided to combine AF1's already iconic silhouette with the technologically advanced Lunarlon cushioning". Lunlerlon is said to have excellent bounciness and very soft cushioning. The lace-up front offers metal eyelets for extreme durability. This Nike High Top Sneakers pair is perfect for the fall and winter seasons. They look relaxed and comfortable and would make a great addition to your sneaker collection.

These shoes are offered in Black/Black-anthracite, Black/Metallic Silver, Camel, Ridgerock/Velvet Brown, Metallic Gold/Black/Light Bone, and Bordeaux/Black. You can pair each of these color selections with a slim-fit suit for a professional yet casual vibe. The Men's Lunar Force Duckboot Nike High Top sneakers are rated 4.5 out of 5-stars. They are available in a price range of $124 to $207 on Amazon. 

Nike Men's Lunar Force 1 Duckboot '17

Photo source: Amazon.com

 

Nike Men's Fitness Shoes

Another great pair of Nike High Top sneakers are these Nike Men's Fitness shoes. They are also known as the Air Jordan Legacy 312 model. The Jordan Legacy sneakers were designed in collaboration with Don C and were released in 2018. The design took on elements of the Air Jordan 1, Air Jordan 3, and the Nike Air Alpha Force low

This fun pair of sneakers come in some great patterns, colors, and designs. The Nike High Top sneakers are available on Amazon in the following colors: Black/Black Igloo Concord, Multicolored White Field Purple Yellow, Multicolor Black Rush/Blue Brilliant Omega, Black/Varsity Red, Pale Vanilla/University Gold, Wolf Gray/Light Graphite-sail, Multicolored Black Rush/Blue Brilliant Orange, Black/Black White, and Multicolor Bright Blue/White University Red. They are rated 4.6 out of 5-stars and are offered between $285-$349. 

Air Jordan Legacy 312

Photo source: Amazon.com

 

Nike Men's Basketball Shoes

Are you more of a traditional classic kind of guy? If so, these Nike High-top sneakers are for you. The Men's Basketball shoes are as classic and basic as they get. The Nike High Top sneakers are modeled after the original Air Jordans of 1985. These sneakers are for those who like to skip the frills and stick to the basics. They offer a full-bodied leather upper and nabuk for improved comfort and endurance. The Air Jordan model also has an Air-Sole unit with a sustained cushion. These Nike High Top sneakers have a refined look that's great for many occasions. 

The shoes are available in Classic White, Black, Black with a black sole, Blue Game Royal White, White Black Pure Platinum, Gray, Obsidian Blue White, Multicolor Black, and Team Red/University Red/Metallic Silver. The classic sneaker is rated 4.6 out of 5-stars and has a price range of $71 to $165.  

Nike Men's Basketball Shoes

Photo source: Amazon.com

 

How To Style Your Sneakers

Any of these Nike High Top sneaker options would be an excellent addition to your wardrobe. No matter what your style is, there is a pair for you. There are many ways to wear your sneakers and create a solid fashion statement. Here are some great tips if you struggle to know how to style your sneakers. These looks will help you to take your style to the next level. 

All Dressed Up

Whoever said you had to wear formal shoes to a formal event never met a fancy pair of Nike High Top sneakers. High tops can be an excellent shoe choice for your formal event. Fashion blog Dmarge suggests the following, "For very formal events (i.e. black tie), a high-top sneaker can be the perfect way to experiment with high-low dressing. Go for a well-tailored tuxedo and cropped trousers (there's nothing worse than trousers bunching around your ankles because they're caught on the lip of your shoes). Pair this with premium high-tops in darker shades". Your high-top sneakers can work very well for a dressy occasion. Wearing a bold-colored sneaker with a basic suit can add a pop of color and an element of surprise. Don't be the boring guy on the sidelines wearing uncomfortable shoes. Invest in a great pair of Nike High Top sneakers and transform your look today! 

Business Casual

Nike High Top Sneakers can also be a great choice for the business casual setting. Pair your high tops with chino pants and a polo for a laid-back look that is still appropriate for church or the workplace. You can also opt for nice golf pants and a button-down shirt for an elevated look that remains cool and casual. A relaxed business casual style is always a crowd pleaser. You can easily go from a day in the office to drinks after work without needing to change. Nike High Top sneakers are a great way to be a stylish young professional. 

Everyday Cool

Your favorite Nike High Top Sneakers can also easily integrate into your everyday style. This shoe option looks great with denim or chinos. Opt for a more tailored fit to ensure your pants don't end up baggy or at an awkward length over your shoes. Nike High Top sneakers are meant to be seen. For a great everyday look, pair your high-top sneakers with a pair of slim-fit dark denim jeans and a nice v-neck t-shirt. This look would be perfect for a date, party, or just hanging out. You could also dress the look up by adding a button-down shirt and accessories such as a nice watch. If you want bonus style points, choose a Nike High Top Sneaker with a bit of color detail. You can easily match the slight detail color with your t-shirt or button-down. This will give you a complete outfit that is color coordinated and offers a pop of color. Don't shy away from bold colors but remember not to go over the top unless that's your thing. 

Photo source: Amazon.com

 

Athleisure

Athleisure styles are another easy option for your Nike High Top Sneakers. High tops look great with just about any athletic apparel. After all, their beginnings do start with basketball. For warmer months, pair your high tops with a pair of shorts and a nice t-shirt.

As it starts to get cooler, you can easily add a layer by putting on a loose-fitting ¾ zip pullover or hoodie. You can also pair these shoes with a nice pair of fitted joggers. The banded bottom of your joggers will ensure your Nike High Top sneakers are still a central focal point of your outfit. Athleisure styles are great for errands, travel, and weekend occasions. Nike High Top Sneakers and athleisure go together like peanut butter and jelly. 

No matter your style, there is a solid way to integrate Nike High Top sneakers into your wardrobe. 

Conclusion

Back in the early 70s, there was no way that Phil Knight and Bill Bowerman could have ever imagined the success that would come from creating Nike. Nike has blown much of its competition out of the water. From athletic shoes to apparel to making a name in fashion, Nike has become of popular culture on a worldwide scale. 

You can find Nike shoes for sale in almost every retailer. Amazon, Macy's, Dicks Sporting Goods, and Nike stores themselves offer so many great pairs of Nike High Top Sneakers. With such a variety of stores, be sure to research all available discounts. Many retailers offer a military discount, senior discount, or teacher discount. Some even have coupons that can be applied to prestigious brands such as Nike. Although you may have to give some personal information, the deal may be worth it.

While Nike shoes are usually excellent quality and a shoe that will last, they can be on the pricey side. However, these shoes are an investment. Even though choosing a shoe with fun colors can be great, if they aren't something you can integrate with your existing closet, you may want to choose something a bit more neutral. Selecting neutral shoes will allow you to get a ton of use out of your shoes.

Regardless of the shoes, you select, Nike High Top Sneakers can be a great way to elevate your everyday style. They are also an excellent option for playing sports such as basketball. Nike High Top sneakers are a perfect all-around shoe choice and one you should feel confident in purchasing.

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