Introduction

Nike has Bill Bowerman among its co-founders, and the brand's history blends both running and basketball roots. Nike Air technology first appeared in running sneakers. The Nike Air Force 1 line entered the market in 1982 as a basketball shoe and utilized air cushioning from its very introduction, meaning from the very beginning of its history on the court.

About the brand

Designer Bruce Kilgore was behind the design of this basketball line. When creating it, he drew inspiration from Nike hiking boots, so its design origins also include influences outside of basketball. Kilgore's design thus combines a basketball purpose with inspiration from another footwear category of the same brand. Air technology, on the other hand, had its first documented appearance in running sneakers: its entry into Nike history belongs to running, while the introduction of Kilgore's line belongs to basketball.

How to choose

The historical distinction of Nike footwear encompasses the original athletic purpose as well as the technology used. Running shoes were the first to feature Air technology, while the 1982 basketball line included it from its launch. For this line, the basketball origin is combined with Kilgore's design inspired by hiking boots. Related lines: Other Nike Models, Nike Air Force 1.