Which 1980s Nike sneaker became known as the Air Force 1 after the U.S. president’s aircraft?

The Nike Air Force 1 became known by that name after Air Force One, the aircraft used by the president of the United States.

Nike introduced the basketball shoe in 1982. Designed by Bruce Kilgore, it was the first basketball shoe to use Nike Air cushioning. Its high-top construction, ankle strap, and sturdy cupsole were developed for on-court performance.

The aircraft reference gave the model a memorable name, but it did not describe a military specification or a particular presidential sneaker. The official aircraft name is Air Force One when the president is aboard, while the shoe is commonly styled Air Force 1.

After initially being discontinued, the model returned through retailer-led demand and became especially influential in basketball, hip-hop, and streetwear culture. Low-top, mid-top, and high-top versions followed.