Over the past ten years, Nike has solidified its place not only as a leader in sportswear but also as a powerhouse in culture through its groundbreaking collaborations. Partnering with influential designers, artists, and brands, Nike has consistently delivered limited-edition sneakers and apparel that have become instant classics. This article highlights some of the most iconic Nike collaborations of the last decade that have left a lasting impact on sneaker culture and fashion.
1. Nike x Off-White: “The Ten” Collection
One of the most game-changing collaborations in recent history, the Nike x Off-White “The Ten” collection debuted in 2017. Designed by Virgil Abloh, founder of Off-White and artistic director at Louis Vuitton, this collection reimagined ten classic Nike silhouettes with deconstructed aesthetics, signature zip ties, and bold text branding. Sneakers like the Air Jordan 1 and Air Max 90 from this collection remain highly coveted and influential.
2. Nike x Travis Scott
Rapper Travis Scott’s partnership with Nike has produced some of the most sought-after sneakers of the decade. Known for his earthy color palettes and unique design twists—such as reversed swooshes—his releases, including the Air Force 1 and Dunk Low, have become cultural phenomena, blending streetwear and music seamlessly.
3. Nike x Sacai
The Japanese fashion label Sacai brought its experimental design ethos to Nike collaborations starting in 2018. Famous for combining two sneaker models into one hybrid, Sacai’s reimaginings of the LDWaffle and VaporWaffle offered layered tongues, double midsoles, and vibrant colorways. These releases have been praised for pushing creative boundaries.
4. Nike x Fear of God
Jerry Lorenzo’s Fear of God collaboration with Nike elevated the intersection of luxury and sportswear. The Nike Air Fear of God 1 and 2 models, with their futuristic silhouettes and premium materials, have been embraced by both sneakerheads and fashion enthusiasts. Their high-top design and performance features make them stand out on and off the court.
5. Nike x Kendrick Lamar
Kendrick Lamar’s collaboration with Nike brought cultural storytelling into sneaker design. His Air Max 90 iterations featured symbolic artwork and messages that reflected his music and heritage, making these releases more than just shoes but pieces of wearable art.
6. Nike x Undercover
The partnership with Japanese brand Undercover, led by Jun Takahashi, resulted in highly experimental sneakers like the React Element 87. Known for their translucent uppers and futuristic design, these shoes challenged traditional sneaker aesthetics and created a new category of hype.
7. Nike x Stüssy
One of the longest-standing streetwear collaborations, Nike and Stüssy have worked together on various projects over the past decade. Their Dunk Low releases have been especially popular, merging Nike’s classic styles with Stüssy’s laid-back California vibe.
Why These Collaborations Matter
These collaborations have done more than create buzzworthy sneakers; they’ve helped shape fashion trends, influenced sneaker design globally, and brought new audiences into the Nike community. By combining creative forces, Nike and its partners have pushed the boundaries of what sportswear and streetwear can be.
Conclusion
The last decade of Nike collaborations showcases the brand’s ability to innovate while honoring its heritage. From Virgil Abloh’s visionary “The Ten” to the genre-blending work with Travis Scott and beyond, these partnerships have defined sneaker culture for millions. As Nike continues to collaborate with fresh talent and icons, the future promises even more legendary releases to look forward to.
