Nike Blazer Shoes

Nike Blazers: Born on the Court

These days, you won’t see the Nike Blazer tearing up the basketball court. Nike basketball shoe technology has come a long way from the seventies: heavy leather and vulcanized rubber souls are a thing of the past. While Nike Air technology might dominate the court nowadays, Nike Blazer shoes have become an incredibly popular retro shoe.

When the Blazer first came to market, textured and vulcanized rubber soles were a staple of basketball shoes, giving players the traction they needed for hard cuts and strong post moves. The leather upper was also standard, as it was the only material (before the age of Nike Flywire) that could lockdown the foot while also providing flexibility. The high top design was also strategic, intended to provide stability. When the Blazer hit the hardwood in ’73, it was at the pinnacle of sneaker tech. 

From Court to Street

As Nike developed new basketball shoe technology like Nike Air and Nike Shox, the Blazer was soon retired from its days on the hardwood. But while it was no longer used for basketball, the Blazer quickly found a place among skateboarders. 

The durable construction, while outdated for the basketball court, was perfect for the wear and tear that skateboarders put on their sneakers. Nike, seeing its cult following in the skateboarding world, even created the Blazer SB in 2005 to cater to skateboarder’s specific needs. 

A Street Icon 

Nearly 50 years after its debut, the Blazer has stood the test of time. The simple design, leather upper, and large Swoosh gave it a classic look that was easily adapted to streetwear. While the OG Blazer is an iconic pair of Nike high tops, Nike saw the potential, and soon released the Nike Blazer mids and Nike Blazer lows to give sneakerheads more styling options. With a variety of upper materials from (suede to woven fabric) and endless colorways, the Nike Blazer has become a staple of streetwear. 

With Nike Blazer styles for men, women and kids, anyone can get in on the iconic style. Find the right pair of Blazers for you today.