When it comes to iconic footwear, few shoes can match the timeless appeal of the Air Force 1. It stands as a pinnacle in sneaker culture, maintaining its status as one of the best sneakers ever created, even after more than four decades since in production.
However, Nike hasn't rested on its success. Over the years, the brand has introduced alternative models inspired by the amazing Air Force 1's classic design. One such iteration is the Air Force 1 Shadow, which raises the question: what sets the Air Force 1 apart from the Shadow?
We delve into the similarities and differences between these two models in this guide, examining aspects such as pricing and design. Additionally, we explore the histories behind both shoes, uncovering what contributes to their enduring popularity in the sneaker community.
Table of Contents
So sit back and relax as we dissect the Air Force 1 and its Shadow counterpart, guiding you toward a better understanding of these iconic kicks and helping you decide which one might suit you best. Let's dive in.
History
The history of the Air Force 1 is one of the most well-known stories in the sneaker landscape. It all began in 1982 with Bruce Kilgore creating a shoe designed to go against some of the best basketball shoes at the time. Nike even promoted the sneakers using six of its top NBA stars in a campaign known as the "Original Six".
However, despite Nike's relentless endeavors, the #4190, aka the original design, was ultimately phased out. Nonetheless, the desire for fresh Air Force 1s persisted, with three prominent Baltimore retailers seeking to reintroduce the coveted sneakers to their shelves.
With this incentive, Nike gave it another shot, as long as these retailers took 1,200 pairs of the two initial colourways - the Royal Blue and Chocolate Brown designs.
The Baltimore stores agreed, stocking these two Air Force 1 models. These went on to spawn the "Color of the Month" series and, in doing so, saved the Air Force 1 from extinction as they began to sell once again. Since then, they've only grown in popularity, becoming one of the best Nike shoes ever released today.
The Air Force 1 Shadow is a product of the original Air Force 1's success. First released in 2019, it's essentially a revised version of the Air Force 1 that features layered, exaggerated details to refresh an all-time classic with a more modern feel.
Interestingly, the Shadow is primarily designed for women, specifically catering to women's unique style preferences thanks to Nike's Senior Creative Director for Women's Footwear, Georgina James, putting an emphasis on women's-exclusive footwear.
There's not much more to say about the Shadow really. If it wasn't for the Air Force 1's creation in 1982, the Shadow wouldn't exist today. However, the sneaker stands out on its own due to its stylish, unique, and modern feel.
Design
As far as design goes, the two obviously share some significant similarities. The Shadow is still an Air Force 1 at its core, so features a similar silhouette, panel shapes, and chunky midsole containing Nike's innovative Air technology.
However, as touched on earlier, the Shadow puts a more playful twist on the Air Force 1's classic style by integrating exaggerated layers and doubled-up branding.
More specifically, the shoe features two eyestays, two mudguards, two back tabs, and two Swooshes, giving that layered look that changes the overall feel of the model.
The clue is in the name. "Shadow" essentially refers to each design detail being doubled. This may not be to everyone's taste, but having it as an alternative Air Force 1 design is not a bad thing in our eyes.
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Price
Now we've run through the history and design of the two Nike sneakers, you may be considering buying a pair of Air Force 1s or Shadows yourself. If so, then it's important to know that the Shadow is a touch more expensive than most Air Force 1 models.
Take the "Triple White" Shadow, for example, which costs $20 more to buy from Nike at the time of writing than a comparable pair of "Triple White" Air Force 1s.
However, bear in mind that some Air Force 1s, as well as Shadows, can cost significantly more on the resale market. Just look at the Tiffany & Co. Air Force 1 collaboration as an example, which is now well over double its initial retail price on StockX - it's worth keeping in mind if you're looking to buy a pair.
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Air Force 1 vs Shadow: Which should you buy?
Deciding which to buy isn't for us to say really as it all comes down to personal preference. For example, you may prefer the exaggerated details and doubled-up design of the Shadow over the original Air Force 1 style, although these additions won't be for everyone.
The Air Force 1 also has a ton of history behind it, and there are significantly more colourways to choose from as Nike continues to release new and reissued models pretty much on a monthly if not weekly basis.
For us, the Air Force 1 is a go-to really, featuring a timeless design that complements almost any outfit superbly. But, ultimately, it comes down to your personal style, preferences, and the aesthetic you desire, with the Shadow providing a good alternative to the classic Air Force 1.
If you can, take the time to try on both models, compare their designs, and consider how they align with your wardrobe and overall fashion sense.
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