Some first made their way out of basketball courts, others from football pitches. Here are 10 models with a long history, plus a few ideas for how to wear them this fall.
Many of the sneakers you see on the street today were made decades ago for basketball, running or football. Over the years, people started wearing them outside of sports, too, and they became classics.
We’ve grouped them by their origins to make it easier to find your way around.
From the basketball court
Four models made for the game that are now worn more on the streets.
Nike Air Force 1 (1982)
The first basketball shoe with Nike Air. Designed by Bruce Kilgore, it quickly made its way out of the courts. It’s so popular that Nike has never stopped making it.
What to wear it with: The all-black version is the most practical for fall and goes with tracksuits, jeans or cargo pants. Styles at Sportmax →
Air Jordan 4 (1989)
Designed by Tinker Hatfield, it features mesh panels, plastic “wings” on the sides and visible Air in the heel. Many people also remember it from the ads with Spike Lee.
What to wear it with: Keep the clothes simple and in neutral colors to let the shoe stand out. Styles at Sportmax →
Nike Dunk (1985)
It debuted with the “Be True to Your School” campaign, in the colors of American college teams. In the early 2000s, skaters made it truly popular.
What to wear it with: Its contrasting colors look great with baggy pants and a sweatshirt. Styles at Sportmax →
adidas Superstar (1969)
A basketball shoe with a rubber shell-toe. After Run-DMC released “My Adidas,” it became part of hip-hop culture.
What to wear it with: A classic tracksuit with the three stripes. See the style →
Air Max models
The visible air cushion is one of Nike’s most recognizable innovations.
Nike Air Max 90 (1990)
Another design by Tinker Hatfield, with a larger Air window and bright colors that are so typical of the ’90s.
What to wear it with: The grey versions are the easiest to style, whether with a tracksuit or jeans and a jacket. Styles at Sportmax →
Nike Air Max 95 (1995)
Designer Sergio Lozano drew inspiration from the human body. The side panels look like muscles, while the sole resembles a spine. It was the first Air Max with visible Air in the forefoot, too.
What to wear it with: Slimmer bottoms help show off the whole shoe. Styles at Sportmax →
Nike Air Max Plus “TN” (1998)
Featuring “Tuned Air” technology and wavy ribs inspired by palm trees and Florida sunsets. TN has long been a streetwear favorite in Europe.
What to wear it with: Bolder colorways, such as black and honey, look best with an all-black outfit. Styles at Sportmax →
Football and retro
Two old adidas models that have become highly sought-after again in recent years.
adidas Samba (1950)
Originally made for training on hard, frozen ground. In recent years, you’ve been seeing it on every corner.
What to wear it with: Jeans or wide-leg pants and a football jersey—that’s the so-called “blokecore” style. Styles at Sportmax →
adidas Campus (’80s)
A basketball shoe embraced by the hip-hop scene. The new Campus 00s version has a thicker sole and a suede upper.
What to wear it with: Suede is perfect for fall—try it with a knitted sweater and cargo pants. Styles at Sportmax →
A newer classic
The newest model on the list, and one of the most sought-after right now.
New Balance 9060 (2023)
Inspired by the 99X series and the 860 model, it pairs a chunky sole with a retro look and a modern twist. In just a few years, it’s become one of the most common models on the street.
What to wear it with: Light colors look great with a grey or beige tracksuit. Styles at Sportmax →
Which sneaker is right for you?
For every day: Nike Air Force 1 or adidas Superstar.
If you like retro styles: adidas Samba or adidas Campus 00s.
If you want something bolder: Nike Air Max Plus TN or Nike Air Max 95.
If comfort matters to you: New Balance 9060 or Nike Air Max 90.
For your collection: Air Jordan 4.
How to care for your sneakers in autumn
Suede styles (Campus, Samba): it’s a good idea to spray them with a waterproofing spray before the first rain.
Leather styles (Air Force 1, Superstar): a damp cloth and mild soap are enough. Don’t put them in the washing machine.
Wet sneakers: stuff them with paper and leave them at room temperature. They’ll warp on a radiator.
Why shop at Sportmax
Which of these ten is your pick?
All styles are in the sneakers section.
