8 Of My Favourite Nike Sneaker Lines

Since their inception in 1971, Nike of Beaverton, Oregon has been producing a wide range of footwear in every category, catering to every person - from professional sports athletes and fitness luvvies to casuals and the general public. I'm a Nike fan and have been buying and wearing Nike trainers since the late 1990s when I got my first pair, after 1 or 2 stints with Adidas and Reebok and I haven't looked back. 

No matter what your opinions are on Nike, in terms of design, innovation and style and appeal, or whatever, many people, or be it Nike fans really appreciate the efforts and attempts that they make. That, and they have had a cultural and significant impact in hip hop, as well as popular and Black culture.

So without further ado, these are eight of my personal favourite sneaker/trainer types from one of the - or be it the biggest sports clothing brand in the world. 

Nike: A Visual History of Sneakers by illustrator Stephen Cheetham 

Air Zoom Strong - Training shoe that features a sock-like fit and Zoom air cushioning for comfort. I like its sleek look and it has a great design 

above: Air Zoom Strong (women's) 


Air Max/Air Max Thea - The Air Max line uses a large air cushioning unit at the heel of the shoe, which is visible from the side of the mid-sole in most models. Is one of the most popular sellers and iconic sneaker brands for Nike.

above: Air Max 90 and Air Max Thea


Cortez - Was the first track and field shoe created back in 1972 designed by company co-founder, Bill Bowerman. Has a simpler outer design and a streak across the lower portion of the outer sole. My personal favourite Nike sneaker. 

Cortez Ultra Moire Medial

Cortez Nylon Gorge Green

Lunarglide - I have a pair of these currently; they are very light and comfortable and come in a range of nice colours and cool designs. Ideal if you are into running or jogging, or you do a lot of walking 

Lunarglide 7 

Lunarglide 8 - Mens

Chukka - Great for casual wear in general; again I love the outline for these boots. It's almost like a trainer and a high top boot combined into one

Nike Free Flyknit Chukka Midnight Fog


Roshe - another type of casual sneaker, it's renowned for its simplistic yet minimalist design. Kind of reminds me of a fusion between the Cortez and the Flyknit. The Roshe One was designed by Dylan Raasch, who wanted to come up with something that was versatile and could be worn, with or without socks.

Roshe One NM Breeze (White/Black)


Pre Montreal Racer - a sneaker design and go-to running shoe, whilst giving off a lifestyle vibe to it. Looks very much it was influenced from the 1970s and Nike's then- design at the time.

(above: Pre Montreal Racer Vintage in White)



Juvenate - streamlined, flexible, taking elements from Nike Roshe Run and creating an even slicker and sleeker style

Juvenate Olive, men's & Juvenate Fleece, women's