1982 saw the release of a simple sporting silhouette that would eventually become one of the most timelessly trendy sneakers of all time: the trusty Air Force 1. Originally made with basketball in mind, the AF1 features refined Nike Air technology that was first introduced a few years earlier in 1978. This innovative design would eventually go on to become the blueprint for any new Nike releases, making the Air Force 1 a sneaker that deserves to be properly celebrated on its 40th anniversary.
Introducing the first pair in the “Anniversary Edition” pack: the Nike Air Force 1 Low “Anniversary Edition”. Packaged with a novelty Nike-branded toothbrush for easy cleaning, the AF1 lands in a pared-back white and brown colourway complete with all the signature details of the OG design. Featuring a luxurious gold-lettered woven tongue label, the rest of the shoe’s detailing includes a mini Swoosh above its toe box and a custom graphic insole. Keeping its style simple to celebrate the silhouette’s main appeal, this pair is set to be a hit amongst all sneakerheads as well as those who are new to the game.
A sleek addition to the coveted celebratory pack: the Air Force 1 Low “Anniversary Edition” Black Gold. Distinctly dressed in bold black leather overlays, the upper features croc-patterned panels and a unique diamante-textured Swoosh which add premium touches to the stealthy shoe. Its luxurious notes continue in its striking gold dubrae that allows this special sneaker to stand out from the classic all-black design that dominates the streets.
Boasting a best-of-both-worlds kind of look, the Nike Air Force 1 Low “Anniversary Edition” Spilt lets you rock both iconic colourways at the same time in this yin yang-style iteration. Much like the other editions, it features a gleaming gold dubrae and unique branded tongue label, with the main difference being its off-centre black and white colour blocking. The ultimate OG Air Force 1: rock both of the favoured colourways at the same time with this blended edition, a wearable pair guaranteed to sit perfectly alongside other AF1’s already in your collection.
These three picks are only the start for Nike when it comes to the “Anniversary Edition” pack, with many new designs being unveiled in preparation for the celebration of this well-loved ‘80s silhouette. Essentially, if you somehow don’t already own a pair of AF1s, there is bound to be a colourway that will catch your eye in this coveted collection.
Whether you’re planning on getting your hands on a part of this milestone series or not, the worldwide success of the Air Force 1 is definitely deserved of unanimously respected recognition.