The term “sneakerhead” is often associated with men in their mid-20s who frequent stores like Supreme and Aimé Leon Dore and drop upwards of a grand on hot designer releases like it’s NBD. But I’m here to say that you don’t have to spend seven paychecks to know and love a good pair of sneakers when you see them. I have dozens of kicks in my closet and rarely spend more than $150 on a pair. The reason why? I opt for classics that never go out of style, so when I buy a new pair, I can wear them for years.
I’ve found a few brands that I can depend on the most for getting high-quality shoes that are equal parts trendy, unique and durable as hell. And none are more reliable than Nike, of course. Yeah, when it comes to sneakers, the store’s best-known for its all-white Air Force 1s that you probably see on the street a few times a week (I’m not hating, these are versatile good shoes!) but as a shoe-obsessive, I’m gonna challenge y’all to take a look past those shoes and see all of the other incredible styles that Nike has to offer. Seriously, you’ll be shocked to find some incredibly unique ones that are within budget and special to your own personal style.
When I look for a new pair of Nikes there are a few rules I like to follow. First, I ask myself if the shoes are in a style I don’t have. If I already have a chunky pair, maybe I’ll go for a skater shoe or something a little more sporty. Second, I’ll see if there’s a style that comes in a colorway I love or one that’ll match a lot of my closet. One of my favorite pairs of Nikes are black and brown Air Maxs because they look so dope with truly anything I’ve got on. Third, I’ll check out the price tag. Again, I try not to spend more than $150 on a pair, but since these are from a brand I know that creates long-lasting kicks, I’ll consider going slightly above budget if they fit my style, taste and needs.
I know it’s intimidating to go into a sneaker store when it seems like experts and style snobs are surrounding you, but trust me when I say every shopper is in the same boat. We’re all just trying to find a cool new pair of shoes that’ll make us look and feel as good as possible. To make your sneaker shopping easier, though, I rounded up some of the most on-trend Nikes you can buy now. These include a pair of low Blazers that are fit for the office, some Air Max 97s that’ll bring alllll of the vintage vibes to your closet and some high-top Jordans that any basketball fan will be jealous of.
The best part of copping Nike sneakers? You can usually find them marked down on Nike’s site or at other retailers like Foot Locker. In fact, several of our top picks are on sale as we speak, so keep scrolling to shop the best Nike sneakers on the market.
Our mission at STYLECASTER is to bring style to the people, and we only feature products we think you’ll love as much as we do. Nike is a STYLECASTER sponsor, however, all products in this article were independently selected by our editors. Please note that if you purchase something by clicking on a link within this story, we may receive a small commission of the sale.
The Nike Dunk High is an ‘1980s classic silhouette that started out as a shoe designed for basketball courts but has since gained popularity as a street style essential. Sneaker heads will appreciate the padded, high-top collar that adds an old-school flair.Sizes: 5-12, including half sizesColors: 3 + Design Your Own
If you’re not a high-top stan, you’re in luck. Nike made the Dunk Low for those who prefer a low-cut collar look. Just note that the brand recommends sizing down a half size since the sneaker fits large.Sizes: 5-12, including half sizesColors: 3
Calling all chunky sneaker lovers, add the Nike Air VaporMax Plus to your collection, stat. The OG hit the stores in 1998 and was known for its floating cage, padded upp, and heel logo. This more modern version utilizes VaporMax Air technology to provide even more comfort to your step. You could, of course, opt for a neutral color that’ll match with anything, but we recommend taking the plunge on a vibrant colorway so it can function as a statement shoe and pop of color in your OOTDs.Sizes: 5-12, including half sizesColors: 7
Nike Air Max 270On Sale 24% offIf you’re looking for a shoe that can keep up with all your fitness endeavors, look no further. The Nike Air Max 270s are just as comfortable as they are vibrant. Plus, you can add an airy upper and low-cut collar for everyday, on-the-go wear.Sizes: 5-12, including half sizesColors: 19
Nike Air Max PlusOn Sale 24% offThese are my absolute favorite pair of Nikes right now. Nothing is sleeker to me than a fresh pair of Air Maxs, and these bold multicolor ones are hot. The second you put them on, you’ll feel like an off-duty model who sets trends the second she walks out the door.Sizes: 5-12, including half sizesColors: 4
Nike Air Force 1 ’07On Sale 30% offListen, Air Force 1s are popular for a reason. Get a pair that aren’t all white to stick out from the masses. Though it’s got some different shades of color, they’re all neutral enough to not clash with bright tops, dresses or pants. Let these shoes be your new neutral.Sizes: 5-16.5, including half sizesColors: 6 + design your own
Nike Blazer Low ’77On Sale 25% offBlazers are the kind of retro-inspired shoes that will never, ever go out of style. Wear them with jeans, shorts, dresses, whatever you want, I don’t care! You’ll look cool and your feet will feel comfortable—and that’s all that really matters. Also, if you want to personalize a pair as a present to yourself or to somebody else, Nike gives you the option of picking everything from the materials used to the color of the swoosh. This way, you can get a pair of shoes that nobody else in the world has.Sizes: 5-12, including half sizesColors: 2
This colorway reminds me of a classic Nick at Nite show in the best way possible. It’s retro, funky and fun as can be. These are the kind of shoes you’ll wear and get a compliment on within a few minutes of going out and about.Sizes: 5-12, including half sizesColors: 14
Add these Air Max 97s to your chunky shoe collection and you won’t regret it. The wavy design on the sides adds a depth of style and sophistication to the sneakers.Sizes: 5-12, including half sizesColors: 6 + customization option
Nike Blazer Mid ’77 VintageOn Sale 39% offIf you want a stylish shoe you don’t have to think twice about, get yourself some mid-calf blazers. They’ll match anything and look sleek as can be.Sizes: 5-12, including half sizesColors: 3 + customization option
