6 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Magazine
The Top 10 Best Sneakers of All Time According to AI
This article is published by a partner of TIME.
Sneakers have transcended their original purpose as athletic footwear to become cultural icons that define fashion, sports, and streetwear. Once limited to gyms and basketball courts, sneakers now dominate runways, music videos, and everyday wear. Each pair tells a unique story, often tied to pivotal moments in history or groundbreaking innovations in design and technology. From basketball legends to musical icons, sneakers have become a universal symbol of style and self-expression.
The journey of sneakers is a testament to their versatility and cultural impact. Whether it's the Air Jordan 1 sparking a revolution in basketball and streetwear, or the Adidas Superstar becoming a beacon of hip-hop culture, sneakers are more than just functional items—they are statements. Their evolution has brought together athletes, artists, and designers, bridging gaps between sports, music, and fashion.
This list, using research assistance from ChatGPT, highlights the top 10 best sneakers of all time, each chosen for its cultural resonance, innovation, and influence. These sneakers have cemented their place in history, captivating sneakerheads and casual fans alike. From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, they continue to shape the way we define style and creativity.
1. Nike Air Jordan 1 (1985)
The Air Jordan 1 revolutionized basketball and sneaker culture as Michael Jordan's first signature shoe. With its bold design and controversy surrounding the "banned" colorway, it became an instant icon. This sneaker bridged the gap between sports and streetwear, making it a hugely coveted item for collectors.
Manufacturer: Nike
How many made: Original production run exceeded 500,000 pairs; retro editions frequently sell out.
Original and resale cost: $65 (original), up to $20,000+ (resale, depending on rarity and condition).
Celebrities who wear them: Michael Jordan, Travis Scott, Drake.
Why they are popular: First signature shoe for Michael Jordan; initially banned by the NBA, creating a legendary backstory.
Additional interesting facts: Inspired the "banned colorway" myth, boosting its mystique; Released in countless retro versions and collaborations, including the highly coveted Dior x Air Jordan 1.
2. Adidas Superstar (1969)
The Adidas Superstar, with its signature shell-toe design, became a cultural phenomenon when adopted by Run-D.M.C. in the 1980s. Initially designed for basketball, it quickly gained popularity as a streetwear staple, influencing generations of sneaker enthusiasts.
Manufacturer: Adidas
How many made: Tens of millions over decades.
Original and resale cost: $45 (original); resale varies but generally affordable.
Celebrities who wear them: Run-D.M.C., Pharrell Williams, Beyoncé.
Why they are popular: The first low-top basketball shoe with a leather upper; cemented its status in hip-hop culture in the 1980s.
Additional interesting facts: Featured in Run-D.M.C.'s hit "My Adidas," sparking a cultural revolution; Known for its enduring style and versatility.
3. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star (1923)
The Chuck Taylor All Star is the ultimate timeless sneaker, loved for its simple yet versatile design. Originally created for basketball, it transitioned to becoming a staple of counterculture movements and remains a go-to choice for people of all ages.
Manufacturer: Converse
How many made: Over 1 billion pairs worldwide.
Original and resale cost: $5 (original); typically $50–$100 (modern versions).
Celebrities who wear them: Elvis Presley, Rihanna, Wiz Khalifa.
Why they are popular: Timeless design and versatility; adopted by athletes, musicians, and skaters alike.
Additional interesting facts: Featured in countless movies and pop culture moments; Symbolizes individuality and creative expression.
4. Nike Air Max 1 (1987)
The Air Max 1 changed sneaker design forever with its revolutionary visible Air technology. Created by Tinker Hatfield and inspired by the Centre Pompidou in Paris, it set the stage for decades of Air Max innovation and remains a fan favorite.
Manufacturer: Nike
How many made: Limited runs of original colorways; retro editions are widespread.
Original and resale cost: $75 (original); $500–$2,000+ (resale for rare editions).
Celebrities who wear them: Kanye West, Serena Williams, G-Dragon.
Why they are popular: Introduced visible Air technology, revolutionizing sneaker design.
Additional interesting facts: Sparked one of Nike's most successful franchises, the Air Max series.
5. Puma Suede (1968)
The Puma Suede holds historical significance for its association with the Black Power salute during the 1968 Olympics. Its simple yet stylish design has made it a favorite in both sports and streetwear, maintaining its relevance for over five decades.
Manufacturer: Puma
How many made: Millions, with special editions frequently released.
Original and resale cost: $30 (original); resale varies depending on edition.
Celebrities who wear them: Walt "Clyde" Frazier, Tommie Smith, Jay-Z.
Why they are popular: Iconic for its role in sports and civil rights history.
Additional interesting facts: Collaboration with Clyde Frazier led to the creation of the Puma Clyde.
6. Reebok Pump (1989)
The Reebok Pump introduced new and exciting technology that allowed users to customize the fit of their sneakers. Its association with Dee Brown's iconic dunk contest performance propelled it to legendary status among basketball fans and collectors.
Manufacturer: Reebok
How many made: Hundreds of thousands initially; retro versions are limited.
Original and resale cost: $170 (original); $200–$1,500 (resale for rare editions).
Celebrities who wear them: Shaquille O'Neal, Michael Chang, Dee Brown.
Why they are popular: Introduced innovative Pump technology, allowing users to customize fit.
Additional interesting facts: Spawned collaborations with designers and streetwear brands.
7. Nike Air Yeezy 2 (2012)
The Nike Air Yeezy 2 was Kanye West's signature sneaker during his collaboration with Nike. Its exclusivity and bold design, particularly the "Red October" colorway, solidified its place as one of the most sought-after sneakers in history.
Manufacturer: Nike
How many made: Limited to 5,000 pairs of "Red October" colorway.
Original and resale cost: $250 (original); up to $15,000+ (resale).
Celebrities who wear them: Kanye West, Jay-Z, Justin Bieber.
Why they are popular: Kanye West's signature sneaker; highly sought after due to exclusivity.
Additional interesting facts: Paved the way for Kanye's partnership with Adidas and the Yeezy brand.
8. New Balance 574 (1988)
The New Balance 574 is a classic sneaker known for its comfort and casual style. It has transcended the "dad shoe" stereotype, becoming a trendy choice for millennials and Gen Z while maintaining its timeless appeal.
Manufacturer: New Balance
How many made: Millions produced globally.
Original and resale cost: $40 (original); $80–$300 (resale for limited editions).
Celebrities who wear them: Steve Jobs, Kawhi Leonard, Jack Harlow.
Why they are popular: Known for comfort and versatility.
Additional interesting facts: Regularly featured in collaborations with popular designers and brands.
9. Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 (2015)
The Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 redefined sneaker design with its sleek silhouette and unparalleled comfort. As part of Kanye West's Yeezy line, it became an instant classic, with some colorways becoming grails for sneakerheads.
Manufacturer: Adidas
How many made: Limited runs of each colorway; some restocks available.
Original and resale cost: $200 (original); $500–$1,500 (resale for rare colorways).
Celebrities who wear them: Kanye West, Kim Kardashian, Pharrell Williams.
Why they are popular: Combines sleek design with Adidas Boost technology, offering unparalleled comfort.
Additional interesting facts: Colorways like "Turtle Dove" and "Pirate Black" are especially coveted.
10. Air Force 1 (1982)
The Air Force 1 remains a staple of hip-hop and basketball culture. Its timeless design, particularly the all-white version, has made it one of the most enduring and beloved sneakers of all time.
Manufacturer: Nike
How many made: Over 10 million pairs annually; countless variations.
Original and resale cost: $90 (original); $200–$2,000 (resale for limited editions).
Celebrities who wear them: LeBron James, Travis Scott, Billie Eilish.
Why they are popular: Timeless design; celebrated in hip-hop and basketball culture.
Additional interesting facts: Known for its customizable options through Nike's "By You" program.
Conclusion on Top Sneakers
Sneakers are more than just footwear—they are symbols of cultural identity, innovation, and storytelling. Each sneaker on this list has left a lasting impact on history, fashion, and sport, influencing generations and shaping global trends. From the rebellious mystique of the Air Jordan 1 to the groundbreaking technology of the Reebok Pump, these sneakers have redefined what it means to combine form, function, and style. They represent milestones in design and culture and have become integral parts of streetwear and collector communities alike.
As trends evolve, these iconic sneakers remain timeless, continuing to inspire new generations of designers, athletes, and enthusiasts. Whether they are worn on the basketball court, the runway, or the streets, these sneakers showcase the power of innovation and cultural resonance. Through their stories and unique designs, they prove that sneakers are more than just shoes—they are legacies.
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About the Authors:
Richard D. Harroch is a Senior Advisor to CEOs, management teams, and Boards of Directors. He is an expert on M&A, venture capital, startups, and business contracts. He was the Managing Director and Global Head of M&A at VantagePoint Capital Partners, a venture capital fund in the San Francisco area. His focus is on internet, digital media, AI and technology companies. He was the founder of several Internet companies. His articles have appeared online in Forbes, Fortune, MSN, Yahoo, Fox Business and Richard is the author of several books on startups and entrepreneurship as well as the co-author of Poker for Dummies and a Wall Street Journal-bestselling book on small business. He is the co-author of a 1,500-page book published by Bloomberg on mergers and acquisitions of privately held companies. He was also a corporate and M&A partner at the international law firm of Orrick, Herrington & Sutcliffe. He has been involved in over 200 M&A transactions and 250 startup financings. He can be reached through LinkedIn.
Dominique Harroch is the Chief of Staff at She has acted as a Chief of Staff or Operations Leader for multiple companies where she leveraged her extensive experience in operations management, strategic planning, and team leadership to drive organizational success. With a background that spans over two decades in operations leadership, event planning at her own start-up and marketing at various financial and retail companies. Dominique is known for her ability to optimize processes, manage complex projects and lead high-performing teams. She holds a BA in English and Psychology from U.C. Berkeley and an MBA from the University of San Francisco. She can be reached via LinkedIn.
