Are Air Force 1 Popular Still? (2024)

By Anthony Levine, Updated: 11-24-2021

Many sneakers have waves of hype behind them. You don’t want to be caught out there looking out of style with your next pickup. If you’re considering some AF1s, it’s only natural to wonder “Are Air Force 1 popular still?”

So… Are Air Force 1 Popular Still?

Yes, Nike Air Force 1s are popular to this day. They are consistently Nike’s best selling sneaker year after year.

Are Air Force 1 Popular Still? (1)

Click/tap image to shop for these on eBay!

There’s hype, which alludes to the “buzz” around certain releases or models. Then there’s popularity, which can be looked at in terms of sales. If a shoe is consistently the best seller of the biggest sneaker brand, then it is easily the most popular sneaker out there.

The standard white on white Air Force 1 is of course a constant seller that is available everywhere. I don’t have the actual data on this, but I’m willing to bet that this sneaker alone accounts for a bulk of AF1 sales. It’s a perfect sneaker to buy when you don’t know what other sneaker to get and don’t want to take a chance on buying something “uncool”.

Why Are Air Force Ones So Popular?

The classic yet stylish look, proportions, availability, comfort and wearability all factor into the Air Force 1s popularity. Air Force 1s look great with most casual outfits and have a rich history that appeals to sneaker fanatics.

Are Air Force 1 Popular Still? (2)

Click/tap image to shop for these on eBay!

The Nike Air Force 1 has experienced a resurgence in popularity, as fashion moves in waves. Occasionally, the sneaker takes a backseat to other “shoes of the moment”, but always resurfaces. Regardless if the AF1 is currently an “it” sneaker, it still sells the most and always remains a popular choice.

Who Made Air Force Ones Popular?

Collaborations with Travis Scott, UNDFTD, a Ma Maniere and others keep the sneaker on the frontlines of popularity. The AF1’s clout previously surged in the 2000s thanks to Nelly’s “Air Force Ones” song along with other celebrity endorsem*nts.

Are Air Force 1 Popular Still? (3)

Click/tap image to shop for these on eBay!

Upon the initial 1982 release of the model as a basketball shoe, Nike got 6 NBA stars of the time to promote the sneaker. Nike’s at-the-time new Air tech being hidden in the midsole in combination with the NBA player advertising campaign kick-started the sneaker’s popularity.

Typically, celebrity endorsem*nts and/or high-profile collaborations drive sneaker hype, which causes the model to surge in popularity. While a shoe like the Air Force 1 remains consistently popular, bursts of hype help keep the sneaker top-of-mind in the current fashion landscape.

When Did Air Force Ones Become Popular?

The Air Force 1 gained popularity beginning in 1983 with the release of the lowtop version of the shoe. Lower cuts means wider accessibility for those wanting a low-key yet popular basketball shoe that is easier to wear.

Are Air Force 1 Popular Still? (4)

Click/tap image to shop for these on eBay!

In Baltimore, trendy folks would constantly clamor for the next AF1 release, making the town a hotspot for early 80s sneakerheads. Being able to cop a fresh pair every time a new color came out, with limited availability saw the Air Force become linked with exclusivity.

Today as hundreds of thousands of pairs are churned out, the ability to have eye-catching palettes and limited versions keeps the sneaker a mainstay in the community. If you can’t get the collaborative pairs, you can at least get a colorway that suits you, provided it doesn’t sell out immediately. If all else fails, there’s always the trusty white/white pair that is consistently available.

Are Air Forces Still Trending?

Air Force 1s are always trending as far as overall sales for Nike. They consistently take first place in the brand’s top selling shoes. Hype for the sneaker of course goes in waves.

Are Air Force 1 Popular Still? (5)

Click/tap image to shop for these on eBay!

It’s impossible to be off trend in some 1s. The accessibility and universal appeal of the silhouette has manifested in high sales, particularly the all white and all black versions. It appears as though both colorways are permanently trendy and the odds are sneakerheads and non-sneakerheads alike can keep at least one pair of AF1 in the collection with little fear of them being “uncool”.

As far as hype goes, the sneaker may not always be top of mind as far as Sneaker News type websites. However, celebrities and brands often collaborate on the model thanks to the versatility the sneaker allows in terms of palette and materials. Just when you think the sneaker has slipped in status, a new collab gets announced and BOOM – the AF1 is hype again.

Are Air Force Ones Still In Style 2021?

Air Force Ones remain permanently in style as far as streetwear goes. There may be other silhouettes that take more of a spotlight, however the AF1 is never “uncool”.

Are Air Force 1 Popular Still? (6)

Click/tap image to shop for these on eBay!

For example, the Air Force 1 Flax is so popular, it releases every fall! Certain colorways make their way in and out of stock all the time and sell out instantly.

Whether it’s a dirty white pair of 1s or a collaboration with Supreme, Air Forces are bound to be seen on the feet of more people than any other Nike, if sales figures are any indication. Anytime I scroll through social media sites like Instagram looking at sneakers, it’s almost a guarantee that I will see at least one pair of Forces.

In conclusion, the AF1 ain’t going anywhere! If you aren’t sure whether or not a pair of AF1s are going to make you look out of style, don’t worry. The shoe is increasingly popular whether it’s a mass produced pair or an extremely limited release. In my opinion, the only thing to watch for is the quality of pairs. Personally I recommend going for the more premium releases, but you really can’t go wrong no matter what pair you choose.

Buy Air Force 1s:

Are Air Force 1 Popular Still? (2024)

FAQs

Are Air Force 1 Popular Still? ›

Occasionally, the sneaker takes a backseat to other “shoes of the moment”, but always resurfaces. Regardless if the AF1 is currently an “it” sneaker, it still sells the most and always remains a popular choice.

Are Air Force 1 still popular in 2023? ›

The Nike Air Force 1 has been one of the most iconic silhouettes of all time, and it's not going anywhere for spring 2023. With so many fun and creative partnerships that have led to coveted reimaginations of the shoe, you cannot go wrong with snagging the classic look.

Are Nike Air Force 1 shoes popular? ›

The Nike Air Force 1 is one of the most popular sneaker models ever and this is also evident in the range at StockX. First released in 1982, over the years many different variations, new colours, materials and several collaborations have made this sneaker an icon.

Are white Air Force 1 still in style? ›

Tags. A pair of all-white Nike Air Force 1's is a must have in every shoe collection. The sneaker celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2022 and has become a true classic. Whether you have an AF1 Low, Mid or High in your sneaker closet, the Air Force goes with every outfit.

Why are Air Force 1 so rare? ›

Born in 1982, the Air Force 1 is celebrating its 40th anniversary, becoming in fact the flagship product of 2022: hence the desire to drastically reduce its production, limiting consumers to the purchase of the colours following the OG version, triggering a 'race' to purchase the original model, especially by purists ...

How long will Air Force 1 be popular? ›

Are Air Force Ones Still In Style 2021? Air Force Ones remain permanently in style as far as streetwear goes. There may be other silhouettes that take more of a spotlight, however the AF1 is never “uncool”.

Which sneakers are trendy 2023? ›

20 On-Trend Sneakers to Shop Now
  • Supreme x Nike Air Bakin Sneakers. ...
  • Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 Silver Sneakers. ...
  • Kiko Kostadinov x Asics Gel-Quantum Zientzia Sneakers. ...
  • Prada America's Cup Sneakers. ...
  • Camper Drift Trail Sneakers. ...
  • Miu Miu x New Balance 574 Vintage-Effect Nappa Leather Sneakers.
Mar 20, 2023

Why is Nike af1 so popular? ›

“There are more than 2000 versions of Nike AF-1.”

The popularity of the brand is as strong as ever, and one reason for this is that the AF-1 transcends the boundaries of culture. Either white, black, any colour, low, mid, or high top, they go well with anything such as jeans, shorts, pants, socks.

Is Nike Air Force 1 discontinued? ›

History. Bruce Kilgore designed the shoe; the name is a reference to Air Force One, the plane that carries the President of the United States. Nike Air Force 1s were ubiquitous in Harlem, New York, giving rise to the nickname "Uptowns". The Air Force 1 was produced in 1982 and discontinued in 1984.

What is the number one selling shoe for Nike? ›

The all-time classic Air Force 1 is the most consistently popular Nike of all time and debatably one of the best sneakers ever made for collectors.

Are Nike Air Force One cool? ›

It was created as a basketball shoe with a foam midsole and lightweight cushioning for all-day comfort. Now, it's both fashionable and functional. You can never go wrong with this crisp, white leather. These shoes are epitome of "cool without even trying" vibes.

Am I too old for Air Force 1? ›

Age limits

Air Force: 17 - 39. Army: 17 - 35. Coast Guard: 17 - 31. Marine Corps: 17 - 28.

Who wore Air Force 1? ›

Moses Malone (Philadelphia 76ers), Mychal Thompson (Portland Trail Blazers), Jamal Wilkes (Los Angeles Lakers), Calvin Natt (Portland Trail Blazers), Bobby Jones ( Philadelphia 76ers), and Michael Cooper ( Los Angeles Lakers).

Why is Air Force 1 so expensive? ›

Limited sneakers, ample profits — Unprecedented times have also led to unprecedented costs and delays for Nike, perhaps further explaining the sneaker's new retail cost. Like many other companies, Nike has struggled with stock issues throughout the pandemic.

What does the black Air Force 1 mean? ›

Black Air Force 1s has become a meme which means that people who wear the shoe are absolutely up to no good. They feed off danger and chaos and simply can't be trusted.

When did Air Force 1 become trendy? ›

Moses Malone helped put these shoes on the map. The original version of the Air Force I was released in 1982, and their popularity skyrocketed when Malone won a championship donning them in 1983.

What is the most popular shoes? ›

The “Nike Air Force 1 comes out on top in every single state as the most popular and searched for iconic sneaker in 2021,” according to eBay. It come in women's, men's and kids; high-tops, medium and low-tops; and a variety of colors.

What is the most bought shoe? ›

Top Selling Shoes of All Time
  • Nike Air Jordan 1 16. Reebok Pumps Original.
  • Converse Chuck Taylor All Stars 17. Air Jordan VI.
  • Nike Air Force 1 18. Air Jordan XIV.
  • Air Jordan XI 19. The Kobe adidas.
  • Air Penny 2 20. Nike Air Flight 1989.
  • Air Jordan XII 21. Air Jordan VII.
  • Nike Zoom Kobe IV 22. ...
  • Reebok the Question 23.

Why do air forces crease so easily? ›

That's because when you wear them, you move in them. The natural movement of your foot bends your shoe, causing it to crease over time. If your shoe didn't move with your foot, you'd be pretty uncomfortable. The movement causes the material in the shoe to compress, which can cause an unsightly crease or wrinkle.

Are Air Force 1 in style? ›

High-top and low-top Air Force 1s are equally trendy. Whether you prefer the basketball shoe look or just occasionally want to fake the high-top vibe with a pair of crew socks, this look totally has Bella Hadid's stamp of style approval.

Are white sneakers still in style 2023? ›

Regardless of your style preferences, white sneakers will always be a key piece in any closet. In fact, they are a sneaker trend everyone will be coveting in 2023. Even if you aren't a fan of a casual look, they can go with almost any ensemble.

Are Air Force 1 everyday shoes? ›

The Air Force 1 is a timeless sneaker silhouette that everyone should own as it's ideal for everyday use. It's no surprise that it's the model that many Nike collaborations revolve around – the shoe is classic, comfortable and looks good on everyone.

What will replace Air Force One? ›

Formally known as the VC-25B, the new aircraft will replace the current fleet, known as VC-25A, which the Air Force said face capability gaps, rising maintenance costs and “parts obsolescence.” Modifications to the successor aircraft will include electrical power upgrades, a medical facility and a self-defense system, ...

How many Air Force 1s are there? ›

There Are Two Air Force One Planes

Although it is Air Force One, the military has two planes that are designated as the official planes for presidential travel under the call sign Air Force One.

What is Nike's biggest selling sneakers in history? ›

Air Force 1′s are Nike's top-selling sneaker of all time. And that isn't surprising. Everyone from Jay Z to Kendall Jenner has a relationship with the classic shoe. But the Air Force 1 had a different fate when Nike released it in 1982.

What sneaker is most popular? ›

Some of the best Jordan models are still among the most popular sneakers worldwide. Even though the Nike Jordan brand has included newer designs like Air Jordan 1 Mid since, the Air Jordan 1 High remains at the heart of ultra-hyped collabs, the most famous and iconic sneaker silhouette there is.

Which sneaker brand sells the most? ›

Nike, Jordan Brand, Adidas, New Balance and Converse were the top-selling sneaker brands last year on the resale site StockX. However, in a major victory, Salomon was StockX's fastest-growing sneaker brand of 2022, up 2,277% over 2021. Hoka, in second place, was up 713% over 2021.

Do guys wear Air Force Ones? ›

Men's outfits to wear with Air Force One

For a more masculine style, Air Force One can be worn very easily with many outfits. For a streetwear style, we follow the same logic as for the so-called feminine outfits. A streetwear tracksuit and a pair of Air Force One: this is a casual and stylish outfit.

Which age is best for Air Force? ›

Air Force Group X Y Eligibility Criteria: Age Limit
PostAge Limit
GROUP 'X' Trades (Except Education Instructor)17-21 years of age
GROUP 'X': Education Instructor Trade20-25 years of age or 20-28 years of age depending on the subjects of the candidates
GROUP 'Y' Trades (Except Med Asst and Musician)17-21 years of age
2 more rows
Jan 9, 2023

Is 22 too old for Air Force? ›

ENLISTED. You must be 17–39 years of age, a U.S. citizen and have a high school diploma, GED with 15 college credits or GED.

Why is it so hard to get into the Air Force? ›

To get into the Air Force, you need to complete basic training, which requires a certain level of physical fitness that may be hard to obtain. Along with this, there is an interviewing process, as the Air Force does not accept every candidate it receives, unlike other branches of the US military.

What gender is Air Force 1? ›

The Force Is Female

Originally a men's-only style, the worldwide popularity of the Air Force 1 Low prompted Nike to make sizing and special colorways for all genders and ages.

What does Air Force 1 stand for? ›

Technically, “Air Force One” is used to designate any Air Force aircraft carrying the President, but it is now standard practice to use the term to refer to specific planes that are equipped to transport the Commander-in-Chief.

What do white air forces mean? ›

The iconic all-white sneaker symbolizes hip-hop's never ending quest to stay fresh. But the backstory behind the shoe is shrouded in mystery.

Why does everyone buy Air Force 1? ›

All over the United States, simply because it's a simple shoe that matches any outfit you wear. The Air Force 1, one of Nikes most popular shoe, has been around for a long time, and it has a nice design.

How much did Air Force Ones cost in 2000? ›

The Air Force 1 Low debuted around the mid to late-90s and retailed just under $60, according to Complex. In the early 2000s, the shoe was increased to $80.

How much did Air Force 1 cost? ›

On 28 January 2015, the Air Force announced that the Boeing 747-8 would be the next presidential aircraft. On 6 December 2016, President-elect Donald Trump tweeted his opposition to the Air Force One replacement because of its high cost, "more than $4 billion".

What was the original color of Air Force 1? ›

In 1982, the first Air Force 1 debuted on the courts as a high-top in a white/neutral grey colorway.

Can you wear Air Force Ones to school? ›

The Nike Air Force 1s can be worn to school as they provide good comfort, and the thick ankle padding offers support throughout the school day when it's being bashed, scuffed, and bruised. Non-marking rubber sole has a good tread pattern safe enough for when winter ice comes around and summer for that needed grip.

What do Air Force colors mean? ›

The symbolism incorporated in the Great seal of the Department of the Air Force is as follows: 1. The predominant colors, ultramarine blue and gold, are the colors of the Air Force through transition from the Air Corps. 2. The 13 stars represent the Thirteen Original Colonies of the United States.

Who made Air Force Ones popular again? ›

Their iconic design has been rapped about by Jay-Z and Nelly, and today are often seen on style icons such as Victoria Beckham, Kylie Jenner and Addison Rae.

What rapper made Air Force Ones popular? ›

In an interview with Complex's Sneaker Shopping, Nelly spoke about some of his favorite shoes including the Nike Air Force 1s, which were long theorized to have been revived in popularity thanks to the St. Louis rapper's 2002 hit single “Air Force Ones.”

When did Air Force 1 peak? ›

Nike declined to release sales figures, but Powell estimated that about 12 million pairs of the Air Force 1 were sold at its peak in 2005, and 10 million to 11 million were sold last year.

Are they going to stop selling Air Force 1? ›

We are not discontinuing the Nike Air Force 1. Feel free to holler if you have additional questions.

Are white sneakers in style 2023? ›

Regardless of your style preferences, white sneakers will always be a key piece in any closet. In fact, they are a sneaker trend everyone will be coveting in 2023. Even if you aren't a fan of a casual look, they can go with almost any ensemble.

How much is Nike Air Force 1 2023? ›

Standout details include knight chess piece embroidered on the heels along with the initials of his inner crew embroidered on the heels. The Nike Air Force 1 Low Four Horsem*n 2023 will be releasing on April 27th via SNKRS for the retail price of $140.

When was the Air Force 1 the most popular? ›

Moses Malone helped put these shoes on the map. The original version of the Air Force I was released in 1982, and their popularity skyrocketed when Malone won a championship donning them in 1983.

What does the black Air Force Ones mean? ›

Black-on-black Air Force 1s — arguably Nike's most famous brand — have become a symbol of someone who “does not care at all about him self or anyone else ... They are wild and u shouldnt mess with them.” That's the urbandictionary.com definition of “Black air force energy.”

What shoes will go up in value 2023? ›

2023 Sneaker Trends: 10 Styles Guaranteed to Sell
  • Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 V2 (and 350)
  • Air Jordan 3 White Cement Reimagined.
  • Air Jordan 1 High OG Celtic (2023)
  • Air Jordan 1 High University Blue (2023)
  • Air Jordan 1 High '85 Panda.
  • New Balance 550.
  • Adidas Samba.
  • A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 4.
Jan 19, 2023

What will people be wearing in 2023? ›

Below are the 2023 style trends to look out for, according to the experts.
  • 2023 Style Trend: Oversized Everything. ...
  • 2023 Style Trend: Corsets, Corsets, Corsets. ...
  • 2023 Style Trend: Sheer Fabrics. ...
  • 2023 Style Trend: Cutouts. ...
  • 2023 Style Trend: Minidresses and Skirts. ...
  • 2023 Style Trend: A Y2K Revival.
Dec 26, 2022

Is it OK to wear white sneakers year round? ›

For many years, fashion experts insisted that white shoes should only be worn before Labor Day. The reasoning was that white was a summer color, and wearing white shoes after the end of summer would be considered gauche. However, times have changed, and white shoes are now considered acceptable for year-round wear.

How much did the first AF1 cost? ›

If history tells us anything, it won't be the last time either. However, the timeline of the AF1 Low's price isn't well documented. The Air Force 1 Low debuted around the mid to late-90s and retailed just under $60, according to Complex. In the early 2000s, the shoe was increased to $80.

How many Air Force 1 does Nike sell a year? ›

Nike declined to release sales figures, but Powell estimated that about 12 million pairs of the Air Force 1 were sold at its peak in 2005, and 10 million to 11 million were sold last year.

Why are Nike Air Force 1 so popular? ›

The popularity of the brand is as strong as ever, and one reason for this is that the AF-1 transcends the boundaries of culture. Either white, black, any colour, low, mid, or high top, they go well with anything such as jeans, shorts, pants, socks.

Who made Air Force 1 famous? ›

The Nike Air Force 1 came out as a high-top in 1982. By that point the shoe was a staple of the National Basketball Association in the United States and Nike's “Air Force 1” promo campaign featured six stars of the day: Michael Cooper, Moses Malone, Calvin Natt, Jamaal Wilkes, Bobby Jones and Mychal Thompson.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Dean Jakubowski Ret

Last Updated:

Views: 5947

Rating: 5 / 5 (50 voted)

Reviews: 89% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Dean Jakubowski Ret

Birthday: 1996-05-10

Address: Apt. 425 4346 Santiago Islands, Shariside, AK 38830-1874

Phone: +96313309894162

Job: Legacy Sales Designer

Hobby: Baseball, Wood carving, Candle making, Jigsaw puzzles, Lacemaking, Parkour, Drawing

Introduction: My name is Dean Jakubowski Ret, I am a enthusiastic, friendly, homely, handsome, zealous, brainy, elegant person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.