The Top 10 Most Expensive Nike Shoes Ever Auctioned: Legends of the Sneaker World

The world of sneakers is not just about fashion or sports anymore; it’s about history, culture, and sometimes, staggering price tags. Nike, a titan in the sneaker industry, has produced some of the most iconic shoes, many of which have fetched incredible sums at auctions. Let’s take a stroll through the hall of fame and uncover the top 10 most expensive Nike shoes ever sold at auction as of 2021.

1. Kanye West’s Nike Air Yeezy 1 Prototypes: Sold for a whopping $1.8 million in 2021, these sneakers broke all previous records. Worn by Kanye at the 2008 Grammy Awards, they’re a symbol of music, fashion, and cultural fusion.
2. 1972 Nike Waffle Racing Flat ‘Moon Shoe’: Designed by Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman, this shoe fetched $437,500 in 2019. Only 12 pairs were ever made, making it a rare treasure in the sneaker community.
3. Michael Jordan’s Game-Worn Converse Fastbreak: While not a Nike, it’s significant given Jordan’s association. Sold for $190,373 in 2017, these shoes were worn during the 1984 Olympic basketball finals.
4. Nike MAG Back to the Future (2016): A recreation of the iconic shoe from the “Back to the Future” film series, a pair was auctioned for $200,000. With self-lacing tech, it’s a blend of nostalgia and futuristic design.
5. Diamond Encrusted Air Force 1: Auctioned for $50,000 in 2005, these shoes were a celebration of the Air Force 1’s 25th anniversary and were adorned with 11 carats of diamonds.
6. Macklemore x Air Jordan 12: With only two pairs in existence, this collaboration with rapper Macklemore was auctioned off for $25,000.
7. Eminem x Carhartt Air Jordan 4: Merging the rap world with the sneaker culture, this collaboration fetched $30,000 in an auction, with the proceeds going to Michigan State University.
8. Solid Gold OVO x Air Jordans: Crafted in solid gold by artist Matthew Senna, these shoes are more a work of art than wearable sneakers. They were valued at around $2 million, but the exact auction price is undisclosed.
9. Nike Dunk High Pro SB FLOM: Only 24 pairs of this design were ever made, making them one of the rarest Nike releases. A pair was auctioned for $63,000 in 2020.
10. Buscemi 100 MM Diamond: While not exclusively a Nike, its inclusion is due to the sheer opulence. Valued at over $132,000, they are adorned with 11.50 carats of diamonds set in 18-karat gold.

Concluding Thoughts:

Nike’s legacy in the sneaker world is both profound and unparalleled. These auctions are a testament to the brand’s cultural significance, historical relevance, and the emotional value that fans and collectors attach to these shoes. Each sneaker, with its tale and legacy, serves as a chapter in the rich tapestry of Nike’s journey through the ages.

The Art of Custom Sneakers: Celebrating Nike’s Unique Footwear Canvas

In the vibrant world of fashion, the line between footwear and art has steadily blurred, leading us to an era where custom sneakers define one’s style statement. Among the global brands that champion this trend, Nike stands tall, showcasing the brilliance of personalised design and creativity.

A Canvas Beyond the Ordinary: Nike’s Place in Customisation

Nike, with its illustrious history and global resonance, has constantly been at the nexus of footwear innovation. This brand hasn’t merely crafted shoes; it’s birthed legends. Custom sneakers epitomise this legacy, serving not just as shoes but as symbols of identity, narratives of personal tales, and masterpieces of artistry. When we speak of custom Nikes, it isn’t merely about a shoe; it’s a testament to one’s personality.

The Dawn of the Custom Sneaker Culture

With the evolution of sneakers from mere athletic gear to iconic style emblems, the term ‘custom sneaker’ emerged as a beacon of individuality. Through hand-painting, stencil work, unique colour combinations, and sometimes even complete shoe deconstruction, artists and enthusiasts craft singular visions. This movement has created a lexicon of its own where terms like sneakerheads, hypebeasts, and custom drops define its nuances.

The Magic Behind Crafting a Custom Nike

The journey of customising a Nike sneaker is an intricate ballet of creativity. Beginning with a blank silhouette, perhaps a classic like the Air Max or Cortez, the transformation involves precision, imagination, and unparalleled craftsmanship. Each design, whether a splash of colour or an intricate pattern, captures stories, emotions, and memories, rendering each pair truly unique.

Key Terms Painting the Custom Sneaker Landscape

Navigating the world of custom sneakers is akin to stepping into a vibrant lexicon:

• Customisation is the heart of this movement, symbolising the uniqueness added to each shoe.
• Sneakerheads are the aficionados, the passionate collectors who breathe life into the sneaker culture.
• Hypebeasts track down the latest releases, always on the hunt for the next iconic trend.
• Custom Drops refer to those limited-edition releases, often causing much excitement and anticipation.
• Classic Nike Silhouettes remain the canvas of choice, favoured by artists for their iconic design and rich history.

In Conclusion

Nike’s foray into the world of custom sneakers is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, melding classic designs with fresh, contemporary artistry. These aren’t just shoes; they’re a reflection of one’s soul, a testament to personal journeys and stories. As we gear up to explore the art of custom Adidas sneakers, one thing remains clear: the world of custom Nikes is an ever-evolving canvas, and each design is a masterpiece in its own right.

The Art of Custom Sneakers: Adidas’s Mastery in Personalised Footwear

Delving into the captivating realm of fashion, there’s a fascinating blend where sneakers transcend their functional purpose and emerge as definitive pieces of art. In this intricate tapestry, Adidas, with its iconic stripes, has shaped the narrative, introducing a world where customisation isn’t just a trend, but an emblem of self-expression.

Beyond the Three Stripes: Adidas and the Customisation Revolution

With its rich heritage and unparalleled global impact, Adidas has not just been a producer of footwear; it’s been a storyteller. The brand’s custom sneakers echo this sentiment, transforming from mere footwear to canvases of creativity and individualism. When one mentions custom Adidas, it encapsulates more than just a shoe; it’s a reflection of individuality, a statement of style.

The Evolution of the Custom Sneaker Phenomenon

As sneakers morphed from sports essentials to iconic fashion statements, the allure of ‘custom sneakers’ has risen, symbolising an era of bespoke style. Artists and enthusiasts bring these Adidas shoes to life with intricate patterns, bold colour palettes, and innovative designs. It’s in this world that terms like sneakerheads, hypebeasts, and custom drops find their true meaning and essence.

Crafting an Adidas Masterpiece

The art of customising an Adidas sneaker is nothing short of magic. Starting with legendary silhouettes, such as the Superstar or the Stan Smith, the transformation journey is one of passion, creativity, and unrivalled craftsmanship. Every brushstroke, every hue, and every detail signifies a narrative, making each pair distinct and inimitable.

The Vocabulary of the Custom Sneaker World

The dynamic domain of custom sneakers brings with it a vibrant set of terms that paint its landscape:

• Customisation remains the nucleus, epitomising the distinct touch added to every shoe.
• Sneakerheads are the connoisseurs, their passion and collection embodying the spirit of the sneaker universe.
• Hypebeasts remain ever-vigilant, always scouting for the freshest and most sought-after releases.
• Custom Drops hint at those exclusive, eagerly-awaited releases that stir up waves of excitement.
• The legendary Adidas Silhouettes serve as the preferred canvas, beloved by artists for their timeless design and storied past.

Drawing to a Close

Adidas’s venture into custom sneakers is a symphony of its time-honoured traditions and the fresh waves of contemporary art. Each shoe isn’t merely footwear; it’s an extension of its wearer, a tale of journeys, dreams, and aspirations. As we’ve journeyed through the world of custom Nikes previously, it’s evident that custom Adidas shoes too carve their own iconic niche, with every design resonating as a unique footprint in the world of sneaker artistry.

With some protro updates, the Nike Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch is a flipped rendition of an iconic colorway of one of the greatest basketball shoes ever made.

Many people agree that the Nike Kobe 6 is among the greatest performance basketball shoes ever produced. Possibly the most recognizable Kobe 6 colorway is the Grinch version of the shoe.

In a flipped icon form, this sports all the performance benefits of a Kobe 6 along with some major Protro updates. What more could you possibly want? Perhaps to be able to truly obtain a pair? Sadly, let’s get right into the review.

Nike Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch Traction:

Excellent traction is available on both the Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch and any other Kobe 6. It is important to remember that breaking in requires time. With its snake scale traction pattern etched on it, the sole’s construction combines translucent and solid rubber to provide excellent multidirectional coverage.

This is one of the best Kobes ever in terms of traction, and of almost any hoop shoe in general, once the traction is properly broken in.

Although we highly doubt that anyone on the planet would wear a pair of Kobe 6s outside, you will quickly wear out the traction if you do. Since the traction pattern is very shallow and the translucent rubber is softer than usual, it is best to hoop indoors if you intend to do so (which you really should).

Nike Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch Cushion:

This Kobe 6 version includes some significant updates, all of which are related to the shoe’s cushioning, as any good protro should. A Phylon midsole, a large volume Zoom Air unit in the heel, and a small circular Zoom unit beneath the ball of the foot were all features of the original Kobe 6. Although the first setup was excellent, the current setup is even better.

Nike replaced Phylon with Cushion, took out the Zoom Air unit in the heel, and added a Zoom Turbo unit that covers most of the forefoot. This combination of cushioning technology provides adequate impact protection to keep your legs fresh while still enabling a nice, responsive play on the court.

Nike Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch Material:

In terms of performance, the materials used on the Kobe 6 remain highly innovative even in 2023, as they did in 2010. The upper of the shoe is made by sandwiching an outer shell of micro mesh over a very thin layer of Skin Fuse, which was first seen on the Kobe 5. Because of how thin and light this setup is, there may have been problems with containment and durability.

Nike made the decision to cover the shoe in the now-iconic polyurethane scales in order to stop this. Like the mud splatter print on the Jordan Zion 3, these scales give the shoe more structure and containment.

Nike Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch Support:

Surprisingly good containment and support are found on such a basic basketball shoe. The Kobe 6 has a prominent TPU heel counter, a carbon fiber shank plate, and an extremely wide and stable outsole. An excellent insole that adapts to your foot as you wear the Kobe 6 is also included. Kobe received exactly what he wanted in terms of a shoe that molded to his foot.

All of this, along with the upper’s construction, results in an extremely safe ride on the court. When you cut and change directions on the court, the shoe conforms exactly to your foot and its supportive features keep you firmly secured.

Nike Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch Fit:

The Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch offers a pleasantly snug 1 to 1 fit and fits true to size. As previously mentioned, the Kobe 6 fits your foot extremely well, and the more you play with them, the better the fit becomes. Choose your typical Nike size if you are fortunate enough to find a pair or decide to purchase a pair for resale.

Nike Kobe 6 Protro Reverse Grinch Verdict:

One of the greatest performance basketball shoes ever made is the Nike Kobe 6, and the updated Protro model just might be slightly better. Nike has previously released “protros” that fell short of expectations and provided scant or nonexistent performance updates. This model improves upon an already nearly perfect shoe, something that Kobe, the man who actually invented the term, would be proud of.

Though it may not be as well-known as the classic Grinch colorway, the colorway is still sleek and vibrant. Though there’s very little chance of actually getting a pair, if you’re one of the fortunate few to receive a pair, you’ll be getting a really great basketball shoe. Do yourself a favor and play in them if you’re fortunate enough to obtain them.

The History Of New Balance

Once known as the quintessential “dad shoe” brand, New Balance shoes have grown in popularity over the years and are the epitome of a shoe that works for everyone. Here’s a brief look at the history of New Balance sneakers and how they became a household name.

The Origins of New Balance

The New Balance brand dates back to 1906, when Irish immigrant William J. Riley started the New Balance Arch Support Company. He wanted to offer people better balance (hence the name) through arch support.

Interestingly, the idea came from watching his chickens. Riley observed how they walked with perfect balance on their three-toed feet, and that inspired the three support points in his arch support products.

For the first few decades, the company only created arch supports, primarily for workers who spent hours on their feet. But factory workers weren’t the only people in need of arch support.

New Balance in Sports

Athletes were also drawn to the arch supports, which significantly boosted the brand’s popularity. Many athletes even asked about sneaker options, which prompted the creation of the first New Balance shoe in 1961 — called the Trackster. It had an innovative ripple sole for traction, which helped establish New Balance as a sneaker manufacturer — not just an arch support provider.

Nevertheless, it wasn’t until 1972 that the company really became a top contender in the sneaker world. Jim Davis purchased the still-small company and made New Balance a top running shoe brand within just a few years.

In 1976, New Balance created its first shoe with the now-iconic “N” logo on the side (the 320), and Runner’s World magazine declared it the top running shoe.

Over the years, the company has continually improved its sportswear design, offering lightweight materials and superior support. And since the late 1970s, New Balance has held its place in the sportswear industry with dozens of athletic partnerships.

New Balance in Fashion

New Balance shoes started to become fashionable beyond sports in 1982 with the release of the New Balance 990, the most expensive running shoe available at the time. Having a pair of NB 990s became a status symbol in D.C. street culture, and the brand rose in popularity throughout the ’90s and 2000s.

However, it was more of a subtle popularity. New Balance wasn’t as big as sneaker brands like adidas and Nike, but the brand still had a significant presence in rap and hip-hop culture. At the same time, the shoe became associated with tech mogul Steve Jobs, which just goes to show New Balance’s unique pull to people of all backgrounds.

New Balance has continued to hold a prominent place in the fashion world, with collaborations with big-name brands like J.Crew, Jaden Smith, and Ronnie Fieg (whose most recent 2023 collab sold out in mere days).

Celebrities, designers, and influencers have also helped solidify New Balance sneakers in fashion. Icons like Hailey Beiber, Timothee Chalamet, Kanye West, Rihanna, and Emily Ratajkowski have all proudly worn NB kicks and continue to promote the brand.

Here are just a few of the top-trending New Balance shoes.

New Balance 574

Originally released in 1988, the new Balance 574 combines two previous shoes. This mashup took the best features from both and created a fan favorite that people still love.

The New Balance 574 looks and feels like a classic, with suede material and subdued earth-tone colorways. You can find a pair in maroon with navy accents, mustard yellow, or a light creme.

New Balance 990

The New Balance 990 shoe has undergone several iterations over the years. You can find a pair in the traditional gray tones, or you can choose something more eye-catching, like the red and silver Lunar New Year shoe.

New Balance 327

New Balance collaborated with the French-Moroccan brand Casablanca to produce the New Balance 327 sneaker in 2020. This modern casual shoe pays homage to retro style with its ’70s-inspired silhouette. It has a clunky sole, suede accents, and an oversized “N” on the side.

New Balance Grey Day

New Balance has accepted the color grey as their signature shade. As a part of its long history and success with an often overlooked color, grey, New Balance now celebrates “Grey Day“. The brand uses the unofficial holiday as an ode to their heritage, and a chance to feature their new and old styles alike in a color they’re known best for.

Find Equilibrium With a Pair of New Balance

Even after more than 100 years, New Balance shoes align with William J. Riley’s original vision: to offer maximum support and comfort. And that’s what makes them popular with everyone from dads to athletes and influencers.

So why not find your balance with a pair of New Balance shoes? Check out the top trending New Balance sneakers at Theenstyle and walk in style (and comfort).