With hundreds of direct shops around the world and selling about 15 up to 25 pairs per second, Nike is the greatest deity in the modern sneaker world. While other giant brands such as Adidas and Under Armour are slowly bridging their gap with the Swoosh brand, they still have a lot of ground to cover. As the undisputed top shoe brand in the world for decades, the brand dominates its competitors by a considerable margin year after year, and the public's constant desire for Nike lifestyle shoes is one of the reasons why.
Nike is mainly responsible for the rise of the sneakerhead culture, due to the success of the Air Jordan series. Although the shoes were meant for playing basketball, its cultural impact made it a staple in men's casual fashion. The collection is timeless, as every sneaker in it, especially those that Jordan wore during his playing days, are considered royalty. Until today, the consumers can’t get enough of the retro Nike Air Jordan shoes.
While the Air Jordan series garners the most attention, there is a multitude of Nike Lifestyle shoes that became a part of the sneaker culture, some without the fanfare and heavy marketing. Listed below are the notable Nike sneaker lines and other relevant topics that may help buyers on deciding their next pair of shoe.
The Most Famous Nike Lifestyle sneakers by collection
Nike Air Max 1
Initially released in 1987, the Air Max 1 had been regarded as one of the most famous Nike lifestyle shoes. It was the first shoe to showcase on its midsole the iconic visible air pockets, which is called Nike Air cushioning units. The legendary Nike designer Tinker Hatfield and co-designer Mark Parker conceptualized the Air Max 1. They got their inspiration for the shoe from a building structure in Paris, which is called Centre Georges Pompidou.
The Nike Air Max 1 has been reiterated with various nuances over the years because of the innovations in technology. Trademark techs such as Flyknit, Lunarlon, and Hyperfuse have graced the Air Max 1 series. Because of these updates, its toe box became bulkier, and its profile became wider resulting in a different shape from its original 1987 model.
These are some of the best-rated Nike Air Max 1 shoes:
As the name suggests, the Nike Air Max 97 came from the Air Max series and was initially introduced in 1997. Designed by Christian Tresser, the shoe was initially meant to be a running footwear. Its design is inspired from a mountain bike’s metallic accents, contrary to the popular belief that it takes from the Shinkansen or Japan’s bullet trains. Nike’s hidden lacing enclosure was pioneered by the Air Max 97.
One of the most distinct differences between the Air Max 97 from the original Air Max 1 is its visible air pockets spans the length of the whole midsole. Initially, the opinion of the overall design of the shoe was mixed. Some didn't like its futuristic design, but after some time, more and more people clamored for a pair and went on to became the most celebrated of the Air Max series. Multiple variations and collaborations have been released for the AM97, solidifying its place as being one of the top choices for Nike lifestyle shoes.
These are some of the highest-rated Nike Air Max 97 shoes:
Nike Air Max 97 Ultra 17
Nike Air Max 97 Premium
Nike Air Max 97 OG
Nike Air Max 97 OG Metallic Silver
Nike Foamposite
The Foamposite was intended to be for basketball, but due to its sleek and unique design, it quickly became a part of the street-style fashion, despite the hefty price tag. Initially released in 1997, NBA Superstar Penny Hardaway popularized the shoe on and off the court.
Displaying a futuristic silhouette, the Nike Foamposite is inspired by an exoskeleton of a beetle. Designer Eric Avar and his team took three years before completing the Foamposite’s final product. It is made up of a liquid foam mold, a midfoot plate that is made from carbon-fiber, and Zoom Air cushioning units.
Here are some of the notable Nike Foamposite models so far:
Nike Air Foamposite Pro
Nike Air Foamposite One
Nike Air Force 1 Foamposite Pro Cup
Nike SB Stefan Janoski
The name Stefan Janoski has been a household name for quite some time now. Thanks to the Nike SB shoe line, that name became popular even though many wearers are not familiar with who he is. Janoski is a professional skateboarder that has signed with Nike since 2009. With over 150 models under his name, it is safe to conclude that his signature shoe line is successful.
Skateboarding shoes are generally considered as casual footwear as well due to its style, profile, and support features. Janoski is part of the creative team of his shoe line, effectively translating his classic laidback demeanor to the design of the shoes. Because of its minimal construction, casual vibe, and an agreeable price tag, the Nike SB Stefan Janoski collection is one of the gems of the Nike lifestyle shoes.
Listed below are some of the notable Nike SB Stefan Janoski shoes:
The Nike Air Force 1 is revered as one of the most popular shoes of all time. It was originally made for basketball, but it made its mark primarily on streetwear fashion. Released in 1982, the name is inspired from the USA Presidential airplane. The shoe was first seen in the NBA thanks to the Original Six, which is a group of NBA players that are chosen as endorsers.
The production of the original Air Force 1 was discontinued in 1984, despite its popularity. Initially, Nike is not keen to the idea of re-releasing shoes that was not in production anymore. Eventually, the brand changed its mind and started the trend of “retroing," and it began with the Air Force 1. Since then, the Nike AF1 series became a fixture on the Nike lifestyle shoes catalog.
So far, these are some examples of the best-rated Nike Air Force 1 shoes:
Introduced in 1991, the Nike Air Huarache has been extensively promoted, using the phrase “The Future is here. In sizes 6 to 15.” Conceptualized by Nike’s most famous designer, Tinker Hatfield, the Huarache is inspired by water skiing shoes. Nike released Huarache models for various categories, due to the positive feedback on its sock-like fit.
Olympic gold medalist Michael Johnson and other athletes have worn and endorsed the shoe, and since then, have become one of the brand’s most popular lines. Various personalities such as Jerry Seinfeld worn the during one of his shows. Kobe Bryant has its own line of the Huarache which also gained a large following. Overall, the Nike Air Huarache has its footprints whether on the performance or casual category.
Below are some of the notable Nike Air Huarache shoes:
Bill Bowerman, one of Nike’s co-founders, had been continuously working on a shoe that provides comfort, lightweight feel, and can be used for long distances since the late 1950s. In 1972, the concept came into fruition with the Nike Cortez. Its name came from a Spaniard official named Hernan Cortes who was able to defeat the Aztecs during the Age of Colonialism.
Its qualities are for running, but it expanded its charm into street fashion. Because of its versatile qualities, some believed that the Nike Cortez has been instrumental to the eventual dominance of the brand on the sneaker industry. When talking about Nike lifestyle shoes, the Cortez series is one of those that surpasses the test of time.
Despite having a short history, the Nike Roshe shoe line is steadily becoming a staple in running and casual fashion. It was initially released in 2012. The shoe was influenced by the Zen Master Roshi, according to its designer Dylan Raasch. Due to legal reasons, Nike altered the spelling from Roshi to Roshe. It is vaguely similar to the Cortez, because of its running heritage.
The Roshe has been intricately designed, as it underwent around 16 revisions on its outsole and more than 50 revisions on the upper. After the release of the first model, it took four years before the release of the Roshe 2.
Some celebrities and athletes donned the Nike Roshe One, such as Kendall Jenner, Soulja Boy, Nick Young, Queen Latifah, Jonah Hill, Jaden Smith, Justin Bieber, Colin Kaepernick, and many others. Due to its popularity, style, and price, the Roshe series is one of the top choices on the Nike lifestyle shoes collection by many consumers.
Here are a few of the best-rated Nike Roshe shoes:
On the height of the 2000 Sydney Olympics, Nike released the Air Presto. The brand promoted the Presto as a "T-shirt for the feet," to the point that the sizing for the shoe was called XXXS up to XXXL. In an unprecedented move, Nike released 13 color schemes during the shoe’s first release.
The Presto offers a barefoot feel due to its construction. Its upper is made up of a breathable mesh upper with a Phylon midsole and Duralon on its outsole. Its midfoot cage allows a lockdown feel and the Air Sole on the heel provides cushioning and shock-absorption. Due to its enduring style and support features, the Nike Air Presto collection has become an indispensable part of the Nike lifestyle shoes category.
Below are some of the notable shoes under the Air Presto shoes:
Despite the vast array of iconic Nike lifestyle shoes, sneakerheads and some casual consumers still prefer to wear the signature sneakers of their favorite athletes. The shoe that started Nike’s empire, the Air Jordan 1, had branched seamlessly into street-style fashion due to its design, color, and its endorser's global popularity. Since then, Nike strives to produce athletic shoes that can be considered worthy to be worn casually as well. Here are some examples of the signature sneakers that are regarded as Nike lifestyle shoes too.
Michael Jordan (Honorable Mention)
Unless one is living off the grid, pretty much anyone knows Michael Jordan. Even after his retirement, Jordan's popularity is far above anyone else in the basketball world. Although Jordan went on to separate the Air Jordan brand from its mother brand, his most famous sneakers are produced while he is still under contract with Nike.
No exaggeration, these shoes below are deemed as one of the most popular Nike lifestyle shoes in history by various polls:
Air Jordan 1
Air Jordan 3
Air Jordan 4
Air Jordan 11
Kobe Bryant
Kobe Bean Bryant had a long and illustrious Hall of Fame NBA career. His success on the court is parallel to the success of his signature shoe line. Kobe started his career endorsing Adidas but later signed with Nike in 2005. Nike has produced a multitude of shoes under his name, and many of those have been considered as Nike lifestyle shoes, due to its contemporary designs and vivid color schemes.
Here are some of the notable shoes of the Black Mamba:
Nike Zoom Kobe 5
Nike Kobe 8 System
Nike Kobe 7 System
Nike Zoom Kobe Venomenon 5
Nike Kobe 11 Low
Nike Zoom Kobe Venomenon 4
Nike Kobe AD
Nike Zoom Kobe Venomenon 6
Nike Kobe Mentality 2
Kevin Durant
As one of the elite scorers the NBA has ever seen, Kevin Durant is recognized as one of the top players of the modern NBA. His height and scoring skills more than compensate for his wiry build. KD is with Nike ever since his rise to superstardom.
A significant number of sneakerheads and casuals are wearing his shoes for off-court use, similar to the Air Jordan and Kobe series. While its price tag is heftier than other Nike lifestyle sneakers, KD sneakers more than makes up for it with its style, comfort, and support details.
Here are some of the street-worthy KD sneakers:
Nike KD 6
Nike KD Trey 5 IV
Nike KD 4
Nike KD Trey 5 VI
Nike KD 7
Nike KD 5
Other popular Nike casual shoes
Nike Tanjun
Many will be surprised that a shoe without any fanfare or promotional campaign had become the top-selling shoe of 2017. By the first quarter of 2018, it still tops the rankings, proving that the 2017 domination was not a fluke. The Nike Tanjun has quickly become one of the quintessential examples of Nike lifestyle shoes for women.
Described by a magazine as “a shoe only a mother could love,” the lightweight Nike Tanjun recorded a streak of strong sales due to its comfort and minimalism. Tanjun is the Japanese word for simplicity, which is precisely what the sneaker is about. Because of the success of the Tanjun shoes, Nike produced subsequent models such as Nike Tanjun Premium, Nike Tanjun Racer, and Nike Tanjun Chukka.
These are some of the color schemes available for the Nike Tanjun:
Black Mono
Black White
Olive White
Gray White
White / Black
Red / Black
White Mono
Gray
Nike Darwin
There has been a misconception about the history of the Nike Darwin. It is different from the Nike Air Max Darwin 360 that the tenacious rebounding and defensive NBA legend Dennis Rodman wore. The shoe is a brand new concept, which is a running-inspired footwear equipped with multiple trademark techs from Nike.
The Nike Darwin’s design is inspired from the features of the Air Presto, Roshe, Air Huarache, and Payaa. Trademark techs such as Lunarlon and Flywire ensures optimal support and comfort for just about any casual activity. Overall, the Nike Darwin is one of the best the Nike lifestyle shoes has on its collection.
These are some of the color schemes available for the Nike Darwin:
Cargo Khaki / Black – White
Black / White Electric Green
Loyal Blue
Wolf Grey / Cool Grey / Rage Green
Star Blue / Fluorescent Yellow / Star Blue
Total Crimson / White – University Red
Nike Hyperadapt 1.0
The most celebrated Nike designer Tinker Hatfield conceptualized the famous Air Mags – the self-lacing footwear from the classic movie Back to the Future II. While not exhibiting the full features of the fictitious shoe, the Nike Hyperadapt 1.0 is the closest thing that Hatfield was able to produce.
Its name is based from the "Adaptive Fit" technology, a system that uses sensors, motor, battery, and cables to provide a customized fit for the wearer. This tech adjusts the fit accordingly by a simple push of a button, which is located on the shoe's collar.
Design-wise, the Nike Hyperadapt 1.0 is inspired by the 3D movie Wall-E. On its tongue, the shoe showcases the initials E.A.R.L. which stands for Electro Adaptive Reactive Lacing. The luminous sole is also a nod to the movie.
These are some of the color schemes available for the Nike Hyperadapt 1.0:
Olive Flak
Triple White
Black / White
Wolf Grey
Team Orange
Team Red
Habanero Red
Tinker Blue
Red Lagoon
Nike Air Berwuda
The Nike Air Berwuda is an update of a forgotten 1979 running shoe, the Nike Bermuda. Similar to its original model, the Air Berwuda’s upper consists of a blend of suede, mesh, and canvas. The circular pattern on its outsole has also been retained, with the variable width lacing enclosure.
Its design also bears a resemblance to one of Nike lifestyle shoes, the Air Vortex. On its midsole, the trademark tech Air Sole units were embedded for enhanced cushioning. One of the popular colorways of this shoe is the “USA” variant, which exhibits red, white and blue colors.
Here are other examples of the color schemes for the Nike Air Berwuda:
Blitz Blue / White
Black / Anthracite - Off White - Black
Camper Green / Black / Cargo Khaki / Sail
Pure Platinum / Action Red
Black / Peat Moss – Summit White – Off White
University Red / Squadron Blie – Summit White
Nike Dunk Ultra
The Nike Dunk Ultra was one of the Nike lifestyle shoes released during the early years of the brand. Back in 1985, Nike was just starting to be a household name with the help of the Air Jordan 1 and the Air Force One.
This sneaker's design is a result of combining the features of the Air Force One, Air Jordan 1, Nike Terminator, and Nike Legend. Designer Peter Moore is the one who conceptualized the Dunk Ultra. He also envisioned to incorporate team colors into the shoes, which became a reality.
Below are some of the color schemes for the Nike Dunk Ultra:
Black / Sail / Sport Red / Black
String / Sail / Sport Red / String
Racer Blue / Sail / Sport Red / Racer Blue
Nike Zoom Spiridon Ultra
The Nike Zoom Spiridon Ultra is a reiteration of a 1997 runner. Its name came from the first winner of the Olympic marathon, Spiridon Louis. The Nike Zoom Spiridon was one of the first sneakers that exhibit the trademark tech Zoom Air cushioning. Due to its overall features and performance, the original model was considered as one of the best sneakers ever made.
Fast-forward to 2017, the Nike Zoom Spiridon received a modern makeover. The Nike Zoom Spiridon Ultra exhibits the excellent features of its predecessor, with a lighter and smoother feel. Even with the updates, the shape of the shoe remains true to the original.
Here are some examples of the Nike Zoom Spiridon Ultra:
Team Red/Black/Dark Grey/Bright Crimson
Metallic Silver/Black/White/Desert Red
Black/Bright Crimson/Black
Black/Metallic Hematite/White
White/White/Wolf Grey
Regal Blue/Metallic Silver/Black/Crimson
Notable Nike Lifestyle shoe collaborations
Below are some of the hyped collaborative Nike lifestyle shoes. These models are limitedly released, and the chance that one can acquire a pair at this point is mostly through a reseller.
atmos x Nike Air Max 1 Premium Retro Elephant
The first edition of this collaborative sneaker was released in 2006. It was named the Nike Air Max 1 Atmos Elephant. In 2017, the shoe is given an update, retaining the original color scheme, but with premium white leather. Its design resembles the Air Jordan III, which the fans loved.
Atmos is an apparel label in Japan. The company has multiple collaborative shoes with different sneaker brands.
Nike Air Max 97 x Undefeated
Being one of Nike’s most famous shoes of all time, the AM97 is no stranger to collaborative work. One of the recent collaborations of the AM97 is the Nike Air Max 97 x Undefeated. It is one of those Nike lifestyle shoes that flew off the shelves during the first days of its release. Released in two tonal colorways, the sneaker features the classic charm of the AM97, with Undefeated brandings across the sides.
Undefeated is a famous California-based apparel label which has been tied with various companies for collaborative products. This shoe symbolizes the 15th anniversary of the company.
KITH x Nike LeBron 15 Lifestyle
As its name suggests, the Nike LeBron 15 is the 15th edition of the signature basketball shoes of NBA Superstar LeBron James. Apparel label KITH reimagined the sneaker with elegant details. KITH made multiple variations, both for performance and casual. The collection is released during the 2018 NBA All-Star Weekend. James won the All-Star MVP, which adds to the significance and recognition of this collaboration.
The two variants for lifestyle are namely KITH x Nike LeBron 15 King’s Crown and KITH x Nike LeBron 15 City of Angels.
NikeLab x Acronym Air Presto Mid
The Nike Air Presto is an integral part of Nike lifestyle shoes collection. Since its initial release in 2001, the shoe has been a part of many people’s fashion outfit. Nikelab, a division of Nike that specializes in style over comfort, reinvented the Nike Air Presto with the help of Acronym. The NikeLab x Acronym Air Presto Mid is released in 2016.
Acronym is a German apparel brand Acronym which has a reputation for its clothes equipped with the latest technologies.
Comme des Garcons x NikeLab VaporMax
The Nike Air VaporMax is inspired by the Air Max. It has a Flyknit upper which compliments a reinvented Air cushioning system. Because of the features of the upper and sole, it offers a gravity-defying feel on the underfoot. Japanese brand Comme des Garcons and NikeLab reimagined the VaporMax with eye-catching color and design nuances.
Comme des Garcons is a Japanese fashion brand. The name means “like boys” in French. It has a collection of collaborative products from different brands such as Converse and Vans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the cheapest Nike lifestyle shoes available?
These are some shoes that are considered inexpensive by Nike’s standard. Please note that the price mentioned may not be perpetually accurate.
Which Nike lifestyle kicks can be used while working out?
There are many Nike lifestyle shoes that are built for casual and training. It is recommended to use low-top lace-up sneakers for optimal comfort. The Nike Air Presto and Roshe series are some of the most common and affordable sneakers that can be used in and out of the gym. One can choose from a multitude of models available online.
What are some of the most popular Nike casual shoes in history?
Nike boasts a collection of sneakers that are considered some of the most successful sneakers of all time. Air Force 1, Air Max series, Air Presto, and Air Huarache have been popular ever since its first introduction. But none of those can be comparable to the success of the Air Jordan series, which many considered the greatest sneaker line in history. Many of the sneakers on this iconic series transitioned seamlessly into the lifestyle category, especially the Air Jordan 1.
Which Nike lifestyle shoes are popular with women?
Many Nike casual shoes are offered for both men and women. Recently, the Nike Tanjun has risen as the top choice for women. It ranked as the top selling shoe of 2017 and the first quarter of 2018. For the majority of its buyers, they loved the minimalism, comfort, style, and affordable price. In fact, to its success, it immediately got subsequent versions.
Are there Nike sneakers that are animal-friendly?
There is a multitude of Nike casual kicks that are considered as animal product-free. It's not necessary to list them all down. One can just assume that the shoe is vegan if it consists of synthetic leather or canvas. On the other hand, if the shoe has a full-grain, raw, or nubuck leather, it can be assumed that it is not animal product-free. Additionally, the adhesives used on Nike shoes are considered animal-friendly.
What are some of the most expensive Nike lifestyle shoes?
There is a lot of expensive Nike lifestyle shoes, especially those limited edition collaborations. Resell value is another aspect, as it will drive the price of a shoe at least two to three times its original price.
One of the most expensive sneakers released by Nike is the Nike Hyperadapt 1.0. It is worth noting that this shoe is not endorsed by an athlete or celebrity, nor designed luxuriously by a well-known designer. Instead, the price is justified because of the cutting-edge technologies applied to it, especially its self-lacing system and adjustable fit with a push of a button. The retail price of this shoe is $720.
Do Nike casual sneakers fit true to size?
The fit, obviously varies, based on the support, design, and materials used. However, based on most reviews, these Nike lifestyle shoes fit true to size.
15 best Nike Lifestyle Shoes sneakers
Nike Air Foamposite One
Nike Air More Money
Nike Air Foamposite Pro
Nike Zoom 2K
Nike Flyknit Trainer
Nike Ebernon Low
Nike React Element 55 SE
Nike React Element 87
Nike M2K Tekno
Nike EXP-X14
Nike Dualtone Racer
Nike React Element 55
Nike Air Zoom Mariah Flyknit Racer
Nike Duel Racer
Nike Benassi Slip
Author
Danny McLoughlin
Danny is a sneakerhead turned sneaker industry expert that believes a good outfit begins from the feet up. His aunt currently isn't speaking to him for wearing a pair of kicks at his cousin's wedding. He spends most of his time trying to keep on top of the latest releases, hitting up his contacts and doing what needs to be done to secure his next pickup. Danny has been featured in prestigious publications such as The Washington Post, The Irish Times, Footwear News and the like.
daniel@runrepeat.com
This shoe has recently been added to RunRepeat. There are still not enough reviews for us to assign it a CoreScore.
CoreScore A score from 1 to 100 that summarizes opinions from users and experts. The average CoreScore is 78.
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