The 17 Best Nike Shoes of All Time That You Can Shop Right Now
Olivia Cigliano
Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD
All products and services featured are independently chosen by editors. However, Footwear News may receive a commission on orders placed through its retail links, and the retailer may receive certain auditable data for accounting purposes.
Updated August 16, 2024: This guide on the best Nike shoes of 2024 was updated with new sneaker releases, Editor’s Choice recommendations, 2024 trends, and Footwear News’ Greatest Shoes of All Time selections.
Nike doesn’t just make shoes — it makes cultural icons. No sneaker rotation is complete without at least one pair of the best Nike shoes of 2024. Whether you opt for innovative Nike Vaporfly 3 super shoes or trending Nike Zoom Vomero 5 shoes, you can rely on the Swoosh brand’s top offerings highlighted below for serious comfort, support, and sleek style appeal from the race track to the city streets.
This year, Nike’s heritage silhouettes are some of its most popular styles that are regularly revamped with cutting-edge sneaker technology and trendy colorways that keep them looking and feeling fresh. Brand icons like the Air Force 1, Air Max 1, and Air Jordan 1 are some of the most game-changing shoes in the history of footwear, so much so that Footwear News honored them in its prestigious Greates Shoes of All Time ranking in 2024. The magic of the best Nike sneakers is that they’re rooted in performance support, like basketball or track, but have been adopted by modern sneakerheads as style statements with in-the-know vintage appeal.
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Nike’s sneaker collaborations only add to the hype. In just spring 2024, Supreme’s all-black Air Max Dn was released before the new silhouette launched on Air Max Day, while Nike x Social Status released four colorways of the fan-favorite Attack “Status Symbol” sneakers. In May, PJ Tucker, the NBA’s most notable sneakerhead, kicked off his first-ever sneaker collab with a super limited drop of the Nike Air Flight ’89 in a Sky Blue colorway, which was followed by Scottie Pippen’s Olympic version of the Nike Air More Uptempo that was modeled after the shoe he wore at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. Also this summer, the highly anticipated, Parisian-inspired Nike x Jacquemus Air Max 1 shoes launched with a campaign starring none other than Serena Williams.
You can also look forward to other Nike collaborations in fall 2024 and spring 2025, like the Comme des Garçons Homme Plus x Nike Sense 96 (a modified Nike pink sneaker similar to the Nike Air Max 96) and Sacai’s double-laced Zegamadome shoe that previewed at Paris Fashion Week. Plus, the fabled Nike ‘Wu-Tang’ Dunk High from 1999 is slated to re-release in the fall, and next year, the Air Force 1 is rumored to get a skate shoe upgrade from the Nike SB division.
Basketball shoes are a highlight in Nike’s legacy, from the billion-dollar Air Jordan franchise to high-top Nike Blazers, and the low-top Nike Dunk sneaker (the first-ever color-blocked Nike basketball shoe that’s evolved to be one of fashion’s favorite shoes). Similarly, the massive arsenal of running Nike shoes, like the Cortez, are constantly adopted as stylish walking shoes. The brand’s distinct sporty designs have been re-contextualized as endlessly versatile shoes that go with everything — Naomi Campbell even took the viral “wrong shoe theory” in stride recently, pairing a sequin ensemble with classic Nike Jordan shoes.
But if you’re looking to break PRs, you can rely on the best Nike shoes to carry you through the finish line, too. Nike leads the pack with exceptional running shoe technology that optimizes energy return, stability, and speed, whether in its trailblazing carbon-fiber plate Vaporfly super shoes or reimagined Air Max DN cushioning. Plus, vintage-inspired running shoes forward the brand’s performance comfort features to align with current trends, like early-aughts mixed-media uppers and shiny metallic shoes, like the V2K Run, Zoom Vomero 5, P-6000, and Air Pegasus 2005 shoes, which all double as style statement that can be worn for a run or a sweat ‘sesh at the gym.
Nike new releases are a hot commodity, so if you want to snag your pair before anyone else, it’s a good idea to sign up for a Nike Membership. Not only does it grant you access to member-exclusive women’s and men’s Nike shoes, but you can also rack up reward points, customize your own kicks, and enjoy Nike’s Sport & Wellness apps that track your stats and guide you to your fitness goals.
Below, explore the 17 best Nike sneakers to add to your footwear arsenal. Whether you prefer a retro style or a modern, rare design, there is a Swoosh pair for every taste.
Editor’s Choice: Top 3 Nike Shoes of All Time
Our top three best Nike Shoes of 2024 were selected from Footwear News’ Greatest Shoes of All Time list. The ranking reflects the opinions of a diverse panel of editors and industry experts, plus data and metrics that measure the Nike sneakers’ historical significance and undeniable trend appeal. Footwear News’ GOAT shoes are cultural icons that represent turning points in shoe technology. They are instrumental in the evolution of the footwear market and have endured in the competitive landscape through time.
These are the top three Nike sneakers to sport in 2024:
- Nike Air Force 1 Shoes: Described by Footwear News as a Mount Rushmore-worthy sneaker, the Air Force 1’s legacy spans over 40 years and remains one of Nike’s best-selling shoes of all time. Introduced in a star-studded NBA player campaign, it was the Swoosh’s first-ever basketball shoe to feature Air technology and went on to become a cultural icon in the early aughts thanks to shoutouts from rappers like Jay-Z and Nelly. Today, the leather shoe is beloved as a boundlessly versatile white shoe that can be worn with dresses, slacks, and daily denim. Crisp and classic, this basketball Nike shoe is a staple in sneaker rotations of all ages.
- Nike Air Max 1 Shoes: The celeb-loved Air Max 1 is an iconic Nike shoe. With plush cushioning, suede overlays, and vintage design notes, the heritage sneaker represents a turning point in the brand’s renowned sneaker lineup. In the late ’70s, the Air Max 1 was the first Nike sneaker to front bold colorways the brand is known for today, and it introduced the visible Air bubbles that appear across many other Air Max sneakers from the Swoosh. The model’s bouncy cushioning and ultra-cool flair, coupled with countless collaborations that only pile on its hype, make it an essential Nike shoe.
- Nike Air Jordan 1 Mid Shoes: If you’re looking to slip your feet into a major piece of Nike history — or sneaker history as a whole — these Nike Jordan shoes will grant you serious street cred. The star power of Michael Jordan’s “Be Like Mike” campaign catapulted Nike as one of the most authoritative footwear brands in the world, transforming performance sneakers into valued cultural collectibles, where some models even serve as investment pieces and some of the most expensive sneakers ever sold. The ’80s basketball Nike shoe is one of the most iconic sneakers ever made, and in 2024, it maintains its luxe leather in bold colorways, with a high-top Nike shoe silhouette that brings ankle support on and off the court.
Colorways: White, black
Material: Rubber sole, leather upper
“The first time I saw them in 1982, they became my favorite,” DJ Clark Kent told Footwear News. “But when they became a staple on the feet of NYC hustlers in 1984, it became a shoe of legendary proportions. It has always been simple, beautiful, easy to wear, and style — without costing too much — the perfect shoe. Air Force 1s are beautiful. And the importance came from the real influencers: The people in the streets.”
What testers say: “I’ll admit that I bought these because they are a super popular style. What I didn’t expect was the comfort and the fit of these shoes. I wore them 2 to 3 times and I would say they were good to wear. I can wear these all day at work and come home and my feet aren’t in pain. I like the height boost they give me. The white pairs so well with my outfits and makes other pieces in my collection pop. I will buy more AF1s in the future.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $115
Colorways: White and black, white and green, white and punk, white and orange, red, and more
Materials: Textile, rubber
Today, the iconic sneaker reigns as one of the Greatest Shoes of All Time, according to Footwear News. “They were always done in amazing colors and materials,” said Derek Curry, owner of Sneaker Politics, on the evolution of the Air Max. “The sleek timeless design makes it easy to wear with just about anything. The AM1 was released in a color option that was unheard of at that time and it changed the way that Nike showed off their technology. Air became a movement and still is a big part of sneaker culture to this day.”
What testers say: “I hurt my foot and ankle and didn’t like the looks of most of the recommended orthopedic shoes. These sneakers not only look good but they are very comfortable! I am able to wear them without a heel pad and without pain for hours.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $111.97
Colorways: Green, red yellow, white, off-white, black, beige, and more
Materials: Leather, rubber
Even 30 years after its debut, fans can generally expect new styles to sell out instantly. Available in low-, mid-, and high-top silhouettes, the iconic basketball sneaker is regularly updated in fresh colorways and modern collaborations to keep it fresh. With its hidden Air-Sole unit and leather overlays, it’s no wonder this style has stuck around for decades.
“I used to watch NBA Films shows after school with my dad. They’d show Michael Jordan highlights and I always loved the 1 on the court,” Matt Tomamichel, owner of Corporate, told Footwear News. “As I grew up, I appreciated the way the culture adopted the AJ1, from hip-hop to skate to the [basketball] court. These became the go-to for so many of us. The color blocking is endless, and they go together with pants perfectly. Simple as that.”
What testers say: “These shoes pop out with any outfit. They’re comfy to walk in and so durable. I’ve loved my pair for years.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $125
Colorways: Black and white, blue and white, green and white, pink and white, and more
Materials: Leather, rubber
Dressed in premium leather uppers and grounded in grippy rubber soles, the Nike dunk sneaker is an investment that gets better with age and lasts for years in your rotation — so its $115 price tag is a pretty sweet deal. There are so many colorways to choose from, whether you’re into the versatile, cult-favorite white and black Nike shoes, prefer something bold like red Nike shoes, or want to try your hand at sneaker design with Nike’s “Design Your Own” Dunk feature.
What testers say: “I’m on my second pair. I use my first pair as my lifting shoes and my second pair for casual wear. They fit great and make any outfit cooler.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $90
Colorways: Blue, dark blue, red, pink, black, off-white, gray, and more
Materials: Mesh, rubber
Editor testing and review notes: “This sneaker’s exaggerated rocker and Comfortgroove technology can feel strange at first as the shoe propels you forward, but once you trust it, you’ll be delighted by the plush comfort and ease of movement — it begins to feel natural, and you’ll miss it when you switch to other shoe styles. Nike Motiva walking shoes feel like the equivalent of a spa day for my typically tired, aching feet; the not-so-guilty pleasure of a step in the right direction towards the proper foot care this city guy truly needed. Motivas are a prime option for those looking for shoes for wide feet, thanks to their roomy toe box.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Footwear News Director of Commerce
Price upon publish date of this article: $110
Colorways: Green, black, white and pink, white and orange, blue, orange, pink, and more
Materials: Flyknit textile, rubber
Equipped with a full-length carbon fiber Flyplate and responsive ZoomX foam midsole cushioning, the shoe launches each stride with optimal underfoot stability. Coupled with updated Flyknit uppers for more breathability and stretch, plus thinner rubber waffle outsoles to reduce weight and make way for more cushioning, the Nike Vaporfly 3 is an exemplary Nike running shoe for marathon racing and long-distance runs.
What testers say: “These Vaporfly 3 are insanely lightweight. I was very surprised by how responsive these are! They’re amazing for fast-paced runs. The carbon plate and ZoomX foam are a great and springy combo, and has the softness and lightness to keep you fresh through longer distances.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $260
Colorways: White, green, silver, brown, pink, red, gray, and more
Materials: Real and synthetic leather, mesh, plastic, and rubber
Since its initial release in 2010, the shoe was reintroduced in 2020 amid dominant Y2K sneaker trends. In recent years, Nike has expanded its colorways and regularly releases limited-time drops that sell out in an instant, like the “Team Red and Pink Foam” and “Gundam” Zoom Vomero 5 in 2023. Serena Williams was even seen in the blue Nike shoes while attending the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Editor testing and review notes: “The Vomero 5 is very visually appealing with its mixed textures and interesting design details, so even if you buy the white sneaker colorway or any muted color, the details really shine and carry the shoe style. The cushioning and fit is similar to the P-6000 with a slightly more breathable upper, which is why I consider it one of the most comfortable shoes for men to buy this year. I have two pairs of this Nike shoe, and I wouldn’t be surprised if a new colorway release tempts me into buying a third pair.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Footwear News Director of Commerce
Price upon publish date of this article: $160
Colorways: White and gold, white, black, off-white, blue, and more
Materials: Mesh, rubber
What testers say: “After an accident, I flattened my left foot, so finding the right sneakers became a challenge. Sneakers with support caused blisters after running only three miles, while those designed for flat feet provided no support for my right foot. This pair is pure magic — it offers excellent support without causing blisters. They’re soft, super comfortable, and just wow! And they look amazing.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $140
Colorways: Silver and red, silver and white, off-white, white, black, black and green, silver and blue
Materials: Synthetic leather, rubber
Editor testing and review notes: “I purchased about three pairs of this Nike shoe style since the 2023 Nike P-6000 “Athletic Department” Coconut Milk colorway release. It’s the ultimate ’90s dad shoe with a great deal of cushion for everyday wear. I even spotted Alaia’s creative director wearing a pair on Instagram, which honestly made me feel even more justified for my love of this top Nike sneaker style.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Footwear News Director of Commerce
Price upon publish date of this article: $110
Colorways: Black and white, white and black, white and red, white and green, white and blue, and more
Materials: Leather, rubber
It’s a pop culture icon with over 50 years of history underfoot; “Forest Gump” ran cross-country in a pair and Farrah Fawcett sported them in Charlie’s Angels. They’re back in the spotlight in 2024 amid streamlined retro runner trends, whether on the feet of Dakota Johnson in the new Textile upper iteration, or receiving a rave shoutout by actor Jeremy Allen White who considers them his holy grail white Nike shoes.
Editor testing and review notes: “If you love the look of retro sneakers but don’t want to sacrifice essential shoe support, I can’t recommend the Cortez enough. The spongey midsole and wedge insert feels plush and lightweight underfoot, and the softly structured uppers feel flexible atop my mild bunions and flat feet. The narrow footbed may not be ideal for wide foot types, but the reworked, roomier toe box still lends plenty of wiggle room. I love to slip these on for the office or while running errands on the weekends. They’re my favorite new addition to my sneaker rotation.” — Olivia Cigliano, Footwear News Writer & Producer
Price upon publish date of this article: $90
Colorways: White multicolor, white and black, gray, silver
Materials: Real and synthetic leather, mesh, and rubber
Editor testing and review notes: “Another Nike Y2K-inspired sneaker release that I can’t stop wearing is the Air Pegasus 2005 shoe style. The detailed uppers, fun colorways, and just the right amount of cushioning make it a sure-bet purchase to wear to work, on weekends, and everywhere in between. Like the Vomero 5s and P-6000s, the Air Pegasus 2005s have a different visually effect with every colorway release, so there’s a style for every person to love.” – Adam Mansuroglu, Footwear News Director of Commerce
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Colorways: White and green, all white, white and gray, white and black, gray, white and blue, and more
Materials: Mesh, rubber
What testers say: “Really nice shoe. Great foam, very good traction and an all-around good fit for me. The Vibram sole is a major upgrade. Slipping on slick rocks and muddy surfaces doesn’t happen as much with the new Vibram. They also changed the shoe tongue to a softer flexible material. It allows your ankle to flex more. It was a pleasure to run in and I suspect will become my go-to shoe.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $108.97
Colorways: Off-white, red, pink, black, orange, white navy blue
Materials: Suede, vulcanized rubber
What testers say: “These are my favorite Nike shoes. They have a clean look, superb fit, and a perfect feel. After taking a few years off, the best skate shoe on the market is back and better than ever.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $105
Colorways: Green, white and silver, white, white and red, white and green, black, brown, and more
Materials: Mesh, plastic, rubber
What testers say: “These are the most comfortable shoes ever! I literally walk faster when I’m wearing these. I’m so glad these are as comfortable as they look. The chunky heel of the shoe really does make the fit so smooth for walking and running — soft with enough support. They do run narrow, I got my usual size and it is snug on the middle part and the laces are short. Not recommended for wide feet.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $120
Colorways: Pink, black, gray, white, yellow, green, blue and orange, gray and blue, white and red
Materials: Mesh, rubber
What testers say: They’re comfortable gym shoes. I love them. I get so many compliments in the gym. The toe box is a lot wider than the previous 7 and 8 models.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $150
Colorways: White and black, all white, white and pink
Materials: Leather, rubber
Just last year, the white Nike shoe saw a resurgence with over 420 million views and searches on TikTok, which only hinted toward this year’s steady spike in interest in high-top Nike shoes. The Swoosh caught on to the hype, and expanded the Blazer’s selection with fresh colorways and the “Design Your Own” feature, along with collaborations with skateboarders Mason Silva and Grant Taylor. Not to mention, the heritage shoe has been donned by A-listers from Bella Hadid, Hailey Bieber, Vittoria Ceretti, Anne Hathaway, and Wiz Khalifa in recent years, whether juxtaposed with sharp suiting or paired with casual denim.
What testers say: “I got them for my birthday and I’m absolutely delighted with them. I went for a 4.5 (usually size 4) and they fit perfectly!! I would recommend going up half a size as it’s a high-top boot style and you need the extra room. Lovely colors. Very retro!! My favorite trainers I own now. 100% recommend.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $105
Colorways: Black, white and blue, white and green, white and red, white
Materials: Mesh, rubber
What testers say: “These shoes are absolute fire! They made some slight tweaks to the appearance from last year’s and they look simpler and cleaner. The shoes are very comfortable. I walked 18 out of the box no problem! I wear a 9 and these are true to size, on the snug side. The traction is awesome and much better than last year’s model. The material cleans super well, magic eraser keeps them good and new! Overall, I love these shoes.”
Price upon publish date of this article: $144.97
The History of Nike Shoes
The Oregon-based company launched in 1964. As the famous origin story goes, University of Oregon track coach Bill Bowerman would alter his runners’ shoes, including one U of O athlete named Phil Knight. After Knight got his MBA, he decided he wanted to import athletic shoes from Japan, giving him a competitive pricing edge over other styles on the market. Knight partnered with Bowerman to create Blue Ribbon Sports. With their manufacturer, Bowerman and Knight adjusted their shoes to meet runners’ and athletes’ needs better.
In the 1970s, the company hit its stride. After cutting ties with their manufacturer in 1971, Bowerman and Knight renamed their company Nike. That same year Bowerman famously poured rubber into his waffle iron, creating the prototype for Nike’s signature rubber waffle sole. In 1978, Nike created a running shoe specifically for women, called the “Lady Waffle Trainer,” a first for women’s sports.
The company has provided decades upon decades of noteworthy sneakers, from the classic Air Force 1 and Cortez silhouettes to unique collaborations with luxury fashion labels, streetwear brands, and big-time musicians. It has stayed relevant through its partnerships with some of the world’s most renowned athletes, from Tiger Woods to Lebron James. None, however, have equaled the impact of Michael Jordan. The shoemaker and athlete launched the Air Jordan line, which continues to be a major Nike draw, consistently spawning new styles and iterations. Today, people covet the latest versions of Nike’s iconic styles that have evolved and updated through the years.
Nike Shoe Trends 2024
Nike shoes often kickstart greater footwear trends but the brand’s heritage shoes never go out of style. Nike Dunk sneakers, Air Max 1s, Air Force 1s, and Air Jordan 1s are still in rotation for 2024 and have maintained their status as street-style staples throughout recent Fashion Weeks in men’s and women’s fashion. The popular styles were paired with everything from denim-on-denim ensembles to every hem of dress, often in their classic colorways or collaboration designs — like the Dior x Air Jordan 1.
However, other signature Nike sneakers are seeing a reboot in 2024. The Nike Cortez, for example, has been trending alongside minimalist retro runner shoe trends. The shoe’s round-toe design and streamlined silhouette make for an incredibly versatile everyday shoe, and its saturated colorway options fall right in line with fall’s vivid sneaker trends, particularly in new Vintage Suede and Textile iterations that pop in celebrity street style and fashion influencer ‘fit pics on the ‘Gram.
Throwback sneakers are an overarching Nike shoe trend — and the Swoosh has got them in spades. Nike continues to feed the Y2K runner trend with expanded colorways of archival sneakers like the V2K Run, Zoom Vomero 5, P-6000, and Air Pegasus 2005. However, metallic iterations of Nike’s early-aughts sneakers are a trend in their own right. Videos that feature silver Nike shoes stack up to 21 million posts on TikTok, while “Silver Vomero,” “Silver P-6000,” “V2K Run metallic silver” have earned a combined 40 million views and searches. Alongside the Paris 2024 Olympic games, gilded colorways of beloved shoes have also entered the chat, whether in a newly-released Zoom Vomero 5 or Nike Jordan shoes.
How We Selected The Best Nike Shoes of 2024
For more than 75 years, Footwear News has been the shoe authority. Our coverage spans top industry news, retail trends, head-to-toe fashion, athletic and outdoor analysis and more. Footwear News’ global network of editors has carefully curated all product selections featured using our expansive brand knowledge and thorough research to find quality, long-lasting items.
To curate this guide to the best Nike shoes, Footwear News Shop editors assessed the brand’s heritage icons and hottest new releases. We included the most impactful footwear released from Nike that runs miles ahead of the pack in performance technology, essential comfort, and timeless style appeal. Footwear News Shop editors personally tested and recommended many of our best Nike shoe selections. Additionally, we included the brand’s top-selling sneakers that have earned glowing customer reviews, making sure to include options that support various foot types and conditions, occasions, and activity levels. This guide to the best Nike shoes also includes several shoes featured in Footwear News’ list of the Greatest Shoes of All Time. This list was created with expert input from our editorial team and a diverse panel of footwear industry insiders, as well as key metrics and data related to the popularity and historical significance of the included shoes. Learn more about us here.
Meet The Author
Olivia Cigliano is a Commerce Writer & Producer at Footwear News and WWD where she writes shopping content on the best-rated footwear, TikTok style trends, and more. Olivia received her bachelor’s degree in journalism from Emerson College, and her byline can be found in publications including Elite Daily and CR Fashion Book. She updated this guide for the best Nike shoes in August 2024 with new releases, editor testing reviews, and Footwear News’ Greatest Shoe of All Time selections.
