It’s a new year and it’s time to change your approach to buying sneakers. Rather than browsing the usual Air Jordan 1 or Dunk, stand out by adding a new sneaker from the Nike 2023 range of general-release (GR) kicks. A mix of modern innovation and retro hits, Nike’s sneakers catalog has something for every style.
We have compiled a list of the best Nike sneakers you need to cop in 2023.
The Nike SB Force 58 blends skateboarding technologies with basketball heritage designs. At first glance, the toe box and side panels can easily be mistaken for an Air Jordan 1 low. However, it offers added durability thanks to an old-school cupsole but with the flexibility of a vulcanized sole. The SB Force 58 generally comes with suede uppers and overlays, which adds a durable and premium finish to the head-turning sneaker.
If you love the Cortez, but need some added comfort, the BRSB is a solid choice. In terms of design, the entire upper of the BRSB replicates the design of the old-school track sneaker. But the biggest change is in the midsole. The textured outsole now extends up to the forefoot and heel for added durability. Boosting comfort is a new foam midsole that’s encased within the skate-ready cup outsole.
If British streetwear is more your vibe, the Air Max TW is a worthy addition. The sneaker draws inspiration from the Air Max sneakers of the ‘90s. You can see nods to icons like the Air Max TN and Air Max Tailwind. But the tech is far from old-school. The sneaker boasts a massive heel Air unit and a breathable engineered mesh on the midfoot of the sneaker. Especially in our Singaporean heat, the Air Max TW will keep your feet cool and cozy all day long.
If you want a tried-and-tested, purpose-built sneaker for training and casual wear, the Air Trainer 1 has been the go-to for decades. Designed by legendary sneaker designer Tinker Hatfield, the Air Trainer 1 was developed as a cross-training shoe – you could use it for any sport or activity. Design elements like a lateral outrigger, midfoot strap, encapsulated Air-Sole unit in the heel and a rubber outsole meant it could handle any kind of movement or footwork. Not to mention, Tinker’s timeless aesthetic shines through and looks amazing even in 2023. Travis Scott would agree.
The Air Jordan 9 might be one of the most overlooked sneakers in the Jordan Brand lineup. It debuted in 1993 during Michael Jordan’s retirement from the NBA. This pushed Tinker Hatfield to design it to fit his new sporting venture – baseball. This new design gave the sneaker a boot-like structure that holds up today. Unlike other boots on the market, you get a foam midsole and encapsulated Air unit for added comfort and impact protection. Cop the Air Jordan 9 in earthy tones and you will be able to rock the boot look with all the comforts of a Jordan Brand sneaker.
For the LeBron XX, Nike went back to the drawing board and simplified the design of his 20th signature sneaker. Clearly inspired by fan-favorite Kobes, the LeBron XX is an all-rounded performance basketball sneaker that promises to be light, comfortable and supportive. Combined with its minimalist design and wide variety of colorways, it makes for a great training sneaker that fits well in casual outfits.
The latest and greatest Air Max sneaker from Nike, the Scorpion Flyknit showcases a new rendition of Nike’s long-running cushioning technology. The new system offers a brand new sensation underfoot, one that perfectly balances responsiveness and comfort. The end result is an incredibly tall and wide midsole that is visually striking and futuristic. To tone down the design, the upper is a simple lightweight and soft flyknit that is very comfortable on foot. If you want the experience the future of Air, the Scorpion is a must-try.
The Air Jordan 2 is seeing a renaissance in 2023, returning in a slew of collaboration and OG colorways. Though the AJ2 is often remembered as the sneaker that pushed Michael Jordan to leave Nike, a series of well-timed collaborations have changed the outlook of the sneaker. Especially in a time when chunky, leather-clad retro sneakers are in high demand, the Air Jordan 2 fits right in. But unlike its more popular siblings, many collaborations based on the Air Jordan 2 are sitting on shelves, making them very accessible and worth the cop!
Chi on her Air Jordan 2 collab: Chi Loyzaga Gibbs honors grandpa in her Titan x Air Jordan 2 collaboration
Chunky and full of air, the Air More Uptempo is a bold retro that is just as comfortable as it is heavy. The bulky sneaker gets a bad rep for its layered leather design and chunky build, but it is this construction that results in a very dependable level of comfort. The even distribution of Air units in the midsole is thick but it’s incredibly comfortable with zero break-in time. The thick and well-padded upper offers a well-shaped, structured look that does not wear down with time. Plus, you can expect to use this sneaker for a long time without it bottoming out or falling apart thanks to its very sturdy construction. The Air More Uptempo is available in a wide array of colorways that range from simple ‘Chicago” colorways to outrageous safari prints – so you are bound to find one that fits your style.
Check out Nike’s 2023 range of sneakers, apparel and accessories at Nike.com.
Tags: