When did Air Force come out? Origin and history of the most famous sneakers

When did Air Force come out? Origin and history of the most famous sneakers

Claudia Kogi
updated at June 14, 2023 at 5:13 PM

Having a good shoe collection is one thing. However, having a classic shoe game is the real deal. Unlike decades ago, when people were all about sports shoes and not the designs, today, different companies have developed various shoe designs. Among those designs is the renowned shoe brand, Nike Air Force. Do you want to know when Air Force came out? Here is a breakdown of the history of the most famous sneakers.

When did the Nike air force come out?
A detailed view of the white Nike AF-1 at Flushing Meadows Corona Park on 11 June 2023 in New York City. Photo: Taylor Hill
Source: Getty Images

The Nike Air Force 1 is one of the most iconic shoes in the sneaker world. In fact, it is speculated that 7 out of 10 athletes and fans have Nike AF sneakers in their shoe collection. But how exactly did the Nike Air Force go from a newcomer on the court to a fashion staple over four decades?

Air Force's profile summary

Full name

Air Force

Inception

1982

Type

Sneakers

Inventor

Nike, Inc

Designs

Air Force 1, 2, 3, STS, 5, XXV, and 09

When did the first Air Force come out?

For starters, the shoe is a range of athletic shoes made by Nike that began with the Air Force 1. After which, it went on to the Air Force 2, 3, STS, 5, XXV, and 09. Even though most of these designs are mainly used by basketball players, non-athletes, too, have found them appealing.

When did the black and white Air Forces come out?
A close-up look at the Nike AF-1 on 9 February 2023 in Miami Beach, Florida. Photo: Alexander Tamargo
Source: Getty Images

This particular pair of sneakers is a range of athletic shoes made by Nike that began with the AF-1, which Bruce Kilgore designed and first produced in 1982. However, upon release, it was discontinued in 1984 and later re-released in 1986 with the modern italic Nike logo with a Swoosh revenue on the bottom of the back of the shoe.

Since the creation of the first Air Force, few changes have been made to the other later versions. For instance, the stitching on the side panels of earlier versions is no longer present in modern designs.

When did the Nike Air Force come out?

The Nike Air Force 1, AF-1, has become an epitome of fashion, style, and comfort, luring different buyers and customers worldwide. The first AF-1 was produced in 1982, and since then, only some variations have been made to its original design.

The immense popularity of these shoes encouraged Nike to drop new designs and colourways on a regular basis. There are so far seven evolutions of the sneakers, which include,

  • AF-1 - 1982
  • AF-2 - 1987
  • AF-3 - 1988
  • AF-STS - 1989
  • AF-5 - 1990
  • AF-XXV - 2007
  • AF-09 - 2009

When did the black and white Air Forces come out?

The Black Nike AF-1 is allegedly the hood's most nefarious sneaker. When the first shoe was made, it had the capacity to be modified into any colour of preference. That said, the first Nike AF, produced in 1982, was in white and black before the other colour variation cropped up.

As of June 2023, there are more than 1700 colour variations of the Nike AF sneakers. Besides, it is one type of sneakers that is not only used for professional play but also for street play.

How much does the black AF-1 cost on Amazon?

As of June 2023, Amazon retails it between $100 and $225 minus the shipping fee required. However, other affordable prices in different retail shops go for $90.

Who designed the Nike AF sneakers?

Bruce Kilgore was the first American national to design the popular shoe brand in 1982. The name refers to Air Force One, the plane carrying the President of the United States.

Are the Nike AF sneakers preferable?

When did the Nike Air Force come out?
A close-up look of the white Nike AF-1 sneakers. Photo: @orginal.khakpoor
Source: Instagram

The Nike AF sneakers have a classic design that provides a firmer and more stable feel, making them a popular choice for basketball and other court sports. Ultimately, for instance, if you are to choose between the Nike Air Force and Air Max shoes, it comes down to personal preference and intended use.

When Air Force came out in 1982, the brand skyrocketed due to its immense popularity. Its inventor, Nike, has produced loads of these sneakers in numerous sizes and colour variations.

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Authors
Claudia Kogi photo
Claudia Kogi
Claudia Kogi is a Kenyan content creator with over 3 years of experience. Claudia joined Sportsbrief.com as a writer in January 2022, covering sports and relatable content.