The way we purchase new shoes has evolved significantly over the past 25 years, and not always for the better. When I was growing up in the ‘80s and ‘90s, we went to a sneaker store at the mall and tried on the sneaker we wanted. We could get our foot measured and try on a different size until we got the right fit. Of course, you could also order from catalogs like Eastbay as well, but you were taking a chance if the shoe didn’t fit right when you got them in the mail.
Today, most people either order shoes on the internet or on an app like SNKRS or GOAT. You can still walk into a store like Foot Locker or DSW and try on shoes for yourself, but oftentimes the shoes you want may not be available in the store.
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Back in ‘82
One shoe that many people love and want to order is Nike’s Air Force 1. The Air Force 1 is now over 40 years old, and has stood the test of time as a classic silhouette for decades. The original release of this classic sneaker was in 1982, and it is one of Nike’s most popular shoes of all time. The all-white colorway is a staple that pretty much anyone can pull off.
Incredibly, the Air Force 1, Air Jordan 1, and Nike Dunk all released within four years of each other. These are three of Nike’s most iconic silhouettes, and they all released between 1982 and 1986. For historical context, Ronald Reagan was president between 1981 and 1989, so Nike was really having a moment during his presidency.
Legends like Moses Malone on the Sixers rocked them on the basketball court when they first released in the ‘80s, and then Rasheed Wallace made them even more iconic when he wore them with the Portland Trail Blazers in the ‘90s. Nelly wrote a song about them that we all love to sing and repeat whenever we see someone stompin in their Air Force Ones.
Do Nike Air Force Run Big?
Unlike other Nike sneakers designed during the early-to-mid ‘80s period, the Air Force 1 runs significantly larger than other models like the Air Jordan 1 and Nike Dunks.
How to Find the Perfect Fit
The main issue that a lot of people don’t realize is how big the Air Force 1 runs. I’m typically a US size 11, and have made the mistake over the years of ordering that size in the Air Force 1. What I quickly realized was how big they were when I tried them on. A size 11 for me is almost unwearable. I tried a half size smaller at 10.5, and that was still too big. Finally, I learned that a size 10 is my correct size for an Air Force 1.
I recommend sizing down one full size than you would normally wear.
Nike Air Force shoes fit more like work boots than sneakers. They are durable, not that comfortable, and run big. I am typically a size 11 or 11.5 in a Nike running sneaker, yet a size 10, which is a full size smaller in my normal shoe sizing, is the right sneaker size for me in an Air Force 1.
They are also the least comfortable compared to other classics that launched during that time. So, why are they still so popular if they don’t fit right and aren’t comfy? The first reason is the style of the shoe – their construction is ideal for basically any pair of pant or short. Secondly, the Air Force 1 has a very durable rubber outsole. You’ve probably seen tons of kids beating up a pair of white Air Force 1’s. And, they’re able to do that because they last a long time.
Different Types of Air Force 1’s
The low-cut model and the high-cut model are the two most popular versions of the classic Air Force 1. There is also a mid-cut version, which is not as popular but still a classic. Nike is always tinkering with the model as well, with new iterations releasing every year. For example, there is a rugged, outdoor version available on Nike’s website called the Women’s Nike Air Force 1 Wild.
You can design your own Air Force 1 on Nike’s website with all sorts of different colors and materials as well. The great thing about designing your own colorway is that you can make it exactly the way you want according to your personal preference. Plus, you can design a pair of AF for a special occasion like a wedding or anniversary, or even a team shoe.
What if You Order the Wrong Size?
Now, what if you end up with a pair of Air Force 1 that is too big and you can’t return them? You have a few options.
- Resell them on an app like GOAT or eBay. Follow my reselling guide to get some money back and use that money towards another pair.
- Buy a thick pair of socks. I have some thicker wool socks that I wear with my Air Force 1. The socks I have are usually meant to wear with boots, but they go great with my Air Force 1’s as well.
- Buy a thick insole. A thicker insole will remove some of the wiggle room from inside your Air Force 1 and help give you a little bit more of a snug fit. They’ll also provide some extra padding since the Air Force 1 are not the most comfortable shoes.
Though Nike’s Air Force 1 was originally meant to be a basketball sneaker, it is now strictly a lifestyle model and casual sneaker. Some of my favorite Air Force 1’s include the SF version, Virgil Abloh’s Off-White collab, and the Tiffany collab. It’s such a simple shoe that has so many possibilities beloved by many sneaker enthusiasts.
Here are a few Frequently Asked Questions about the Air Force 1:
Why is the Air Force 1 so popular?
It’s ultimately a combination of aesthetic, history, and wearability. Because they were such a groundbreaking sneaker with Nike Air technology way back in the early ‘80s, it’s one of the first sneakers think about when they think about Nike shoes that are classics. They have a sleek, classic look and they look great with everything from jeans to chinos to shorts. The combination of these key features make them great shoes.
Is the Nike Air Force 1 discontinued?
Definitely not – you can find them at pretty much any sneaker store as well as online on nike.com. You can order the low cut, mid cut, and high cut versions, and they are available for men, women and children. Plus, you can design your own on the Nike website.
Why are Air Force 1 so expensive?
The Air Force 1 is actually reasonably priced compared to other sneakers. You can find the low-cut model for $115 retail in the US, and sometimes they go on sale as well. Air Force 1’s are quite durable and a timeless classic, so you get get at least a few years out of them if you plan on wearing them daily. They’re also cheaper than the Air Jordan 1 low.
What is Nike’s most popular shoe?
The Air Force 1 is up there among Nike’s most popular sneakers of all time. The Air Monarch, Air Jordan 1, Nike Dunk, the Blazer, and several Air Max runners are also among the most popular.
Is the Air Force 1 still popular in 2024?
Nike continues to sell the Air Force 1 on their website, and plenty of people are still wearing them. There are fresh new colorways on their website, and we will most likely continue to see new collabs as well.
Is the Air Force 1 good for walking?
Yes and no. It really depends what you are looking for in a sneaker. If you plan on beating up your Air Force 1’s and wearing them in the rain and mud, they’re great. If you’re planning on taking a trip to Europe and walking 20,000 steps a day, you may want to consider a running sneaker with plenty of cushioning. Check out this list for the best walking shoes for long distance here. Though the Air Force 1 is one of the first sneakers to feature Nike Air cushioning, they don’t feel that great compared to modern day sneakers.
What is the most expensive Air Force 1?
The most expensive is the Air Force 1 Louis Vuitton “Monogram Brown Damier Azur”, designed by the legendary Virgil Abloh. This pair is currently available on the StockX website for a mere $400,000. There were only 47 made, so they are extremely rare. If you’re in the market for one, make sure to get the right size!
