The 16 Most Iconic Sneakers of the 21st Century

Did you know that the first Nike Air Max was released in 1987? Since then, sneakers have changed a lot – but they’ve also stayed the same in some ways. In the 21st century, sneakers are more than just shoes. They’re a fashion statement, a way to show your personality, and a sign of belonging to a certain group or tribe.

And while there are thousands of different sneaker models out there, some of them have become true icons.

Here are the 16 most iconic sneakers of the 21st century.

1. Nike Air Max 97

Did you know that the Nike Air Max 97 was inspired by Japan’s high-speed Bullet Train? This shoe was designed by Christian Tresser and it quickly became a cult classic. The Wave pattern on the side of the shoe is not only aesthetically pleasing, but it also provides stability and support. The Nike Air Max 97 is truly a work of art and one of the most iconic sneakers of the 21st century.

2. Adidas Yeezy Boost 350

Designed by Kanye West, the Adidas Yeezy Boost 350 is one of the most sought-after sneakers in the world. Even though it was first released in 2015, the shoe has been constantly sold out ever since. The reason for its success? The unique design, premium materials, and of course, the celebrity endorsement.

3. Adidas Stan Smith

The Adidas Stan Smith is a classic tennis shoe that was first released in 1971. But it wasn’t until the 21st century that the Stan Smith really became an icon. In the early 2000s, the shoe was adopted by the hip hop community and became a must-have fashion item.

4. Converse Chuck Taylor All Star

The Converse Chuck Taylor All Star is one of the most iconic sneakers of all time. It was first released in 1917 and it’s been worn by basketball players, rock stars, and everyone in between. The Chuck Taylor is timeless and it’s still as popular as ever.

5. Nike Dunk

The Nike Dunk was first released in 1985, but it became an icon in the early 2000s when it was adopted by the skateboarding community. Also known as “Dunks”, these shoes are now highly coveted among sneaker collectors.

6. Air Jordan 1

The Air Jordan 1 is one of the most famous sneakers in the world. It was first released in 1985 and it has been released in many different colorways and styles over the years. The Air Jordan 1 is synonymous with basketball legend Michael Jordan and it’s one of the most popular sneakers of all time.

7. Nike Air Force 1

The Nike Air Force 1 is another sneaker that was first released in the 1980s, but it didn’t become an icon until the 21st century. The Air Force 1 was popularized by hip hop artists in the early 2000s and it’s now one of the most sought-after sneakers in the world.

8. Adidas Superstar

The Adidas Superstar is another classic sneaker that was first released in 1969. Like the Stan Smith, the Superstar was adopted by the hip hop community in the early 2000s and it quickly became a must-have fashion item.

9. Vans Old Skool

The Vans Old Skool is a classic skateboarding shoe that was first released in 1977. But it wasn’t until the 21st century that the Old Skool really became an icon. Also known as “Vans”, these shoes are now worn by people from all walks of life.

10. Reebok Classic

The Reebok Classic is a classic sneaker that was first released in 1983. But it wasn’t until the 21st century that the Classic really became an icon.

11. Puma Suede

The Puma Suede is a classic sneaker that was first released in 1968. But it wasn’t until the 21st century that the Suede really became an icon. Did you know that the Puma Suede was originally designed as a basketball shoe? Now it’s one of the most popular sneakers in the world.

12. New Balance 574

Did you know that the New Balance 574 is named after the year it was released? The New Balance 574 is a classic sneaker that was first released in 1988. But it wasn’t until the 21st century that the 574 really became an icon.

13. Asics Gel Lyte III

The Asics Gel Lyte III is a classic sneaker that was first released in 1990. But it wasn’t until the 21st century that the Gel Lyte III really became an icon.

14. Saucony Jazz Original

The Saucony Jazz Original is a classic sneaker that was first released in 1981. But it wasn’t until the 21st century that the Jazz Original really became an icon.

15. Nike Cortez

The Nike Cortez is a classic sneaker that was first released in 1972. In fact, the Nike Cortez was the first running shoe ever made by Nike. But it wasn’t until the 21st century that the Cortez really became an icon.

16. FILA Disruptor

The FILA Disruptor is a chunky sneaker that was first released in 2018. But it wasn’t until the 21st century that the Disruptor really became an icon. Thanks to its unique design, the FILA Disruptor has become one of the most popular sneakers in the world.

We hope you enjoyed our list of the 10 most iconic sneakers of the 21st century! Do you agree with our choices? Let us know in the comments below.