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We are definitely spoiled for choice when it comes to Air Force 1 releases. There are dozens of colorways and cuts released every year. Here we try and determine the answer to the popular question “Which Air Force 1 should I get?”
So… Which Air Force 1 To Get
The Air Force 1 low in all-white is a very popular choice and a good AF1 pickup for most people. The classic look the sneaker exudes makes it a great default option.
Those with more experience buying, collecting and wearing AF1s might want to look at some of the more premium options. Collabs, “PRM” releases and retros of classic colorways can help round out a sneaker collectors Air Force 1 stacks.
Which Nike Air Force 1 Is Most Popular
The all-white Nike Air Force 1 continues to be one of, if not the top selling colorway of the model. The basic sneaker looks great when brand new and can even exude a vintage look when worn down.
White on white Air Forces are among the
most classic sneaker looks out there.
Buy Air Force 1s: eBay
These days, a crispy pair of white on white Air Force 1s is a very common option for both sneaker collectors and those just looking for a permanently on-trend pair to rock. Newer styles even embrace beat up pairs of this colorway for a different, more thrifted or vintage look. Regardless of your style, this basic shoe will not fail!
The all-black colorway is also a popular choice. These days, the colorway has a negative connotation associated with it; all black Air Forces = crime! If you like the look of a black pair of AF1s but don’t want the stigma, there are plenty of black-based colorways that escape the stereotype.
AF1 Quality
This sneaker contains a bit better quality
of materials than your standard pair of AF1s.
The only issue I personally have with the all white or all black AF1 is that they tend to have very plastic-like leather. Holding a pair of these general release Air Forces in hand, the lack of quality is immediately apparent. When compared to a garment made of genuine or full grain leather, the difference is obvious.
Nike has no official confirmation regarding whether Air Force 1 uppers contain “real” materials, although it seems to vary on a case-by-case basis. The GR or General Release pairs that run about $90-100 retail tend to have the least effort put into production. Stepping up to a premium or special release pair can sometimes give a boost in quality as well. This can vary based on why Nike is calling the sneaker premium; sometimes this refers to other special graphics, materials or embroidery rather than overall quality.
Air Force 1 Lows Vs Mids
Those that want more support or are taller may benefit from the additional structure of the AF1 mid or high. Those just looking for a casual sneaker that’s easy to wear may want to stick with the lows.
After collecting sneakers for so long, I generally feel like high tops are more of a fashion “statement”. They require more planning as far as lacing them up and choosing pants that will sit properly with the shoe. They also tend to give the wearer more of a “look” by default. The downside of AF1 highs and mids in particular is adding more bulk and weight to an already bulky, heavy sneaker.
Try a different colorway like this if the white/white
is too “plain” for your tastes
Plenty of lowtop AF1s sport wild enough color schemes and themes that help give more of an exciting look. Thanks to the variety of Air Force 1 colorways, one does not need to go to a higher cut to draw attention to the sneakers. Conversely, those looking for a low key vibe from their kicks can go with a more downplayed colorway or the classic white/white.
Ultimately, the cut you choose should match your style and body type. Those that like a bigger looking sneaker and don’t mind the extra weight and straps might gravitate towards the highs or mids. Lows should work for most everyone and can stay low profile or wild depending on the colorway chosen.
Whether to Buy Nike Air Force 1 Or Other Sneakers
While it comes down to personal taste, most people will look good in the classic Air Force 1 silhouette. If the goal is sports performance, there are much better options than the AF1. However, for casual wear, Air Forces are a solid choice that will compliment most people’s style.
Collectors often have their own reasons for buying or not buying a sneaker. Limited availability, theme, collab, materials and where the sneaker fits within the scheme of a collection are all factors for the sneaker enthusiast. For the average non-sneaker addict, plenty of different sneakers will work for a casual pair to rock. However, when stuck for what to get, the Air Force 1 remains a popular choice.
The AF1 definitely has a bulkier and more
“rugged” feel than other popular kicks
Air Force 1s tend to fit big and a bit heavy on foot. The cushioning technology has conceptually remained relatively unchanged since 1982. As far as fast paced sports, the AF1 is probably not a great choice. For walking and casual wear however, they work great if you don’t mind the somewhat bulkier feel they have compared to a sneaker like a Nike Dunk or other retro runner. The slight boost given by the tall Air Force midsole might aid those that feel self-conscious about their height.
Conclusion
I don’t like directly telling people what shoe to buy. It should come down to personal preference and what you like in a sneaker. That said, I think the Air Force 1 low is a good default choice for most casual situations. Even though the sneaker’s popularity has seen its ups and downs, it is always an acceptable choice for footwear. The sneaker might not always be the “coolest” out there, but they are never “uncool” and will be seen on thousands of people’s feet as long as Nike keeps making them.