Nike began its ascent to the top of the sneaker industry with 1982’s Nike Air Force 1 — the very first shoe to feature Nike’s Air technology. The popular sneaker was a hit both on and off the court once its low top variant released and since then, it is Nike’s top selling sneaker mode of all time.

Swipe ahead to learn more about one of America’s most popular sneakers.

Named after the U.S. president’s plane Air Force One, the Nike Air Force 1 released in stores 1982. It was the first shoe to ever feature Nike Air technology and a handful of NBA players such as Moses Malone, Bobby Jones and Jamaal Wilkes wore them off the court. However, sales numbers were middling at best.

Nike Air Force 1 Low | Rocafella

Nike designer Bruce Kilgore created the Air Force 1 to be a high top, hiking boot-inspired sneaker with a clean look and very comfortable ride. The version with the ankle straps were great, but the sneaker’s popularity rose away from the basketball court alongside the release of the Air Force 1 low.

Billie Eilish x Nike Air Force 1 '97

The Air Force one would have discontinued after only two year if not for Harold Rudo — the manager of a few Charley Rudo Sports retail stores in Baltimore, MD. Rudy travelled all the way to Oregon in hopes of convincing Nike’s executives to keep the Air Force 1 in production. But, things didn’t go his way at first.

Nike Air Force 1 | Halloween

Travis Scott x Nike Air Force 1 Low | Cactus Jack

After returning home, Rudy placed a massive order for a full run of Air Force 1 sneakers and his stores quickly became the only place potential buyers could find them. The Baltimore sneaker boutiques were also the first to drum up interest in various color ways of the sneaker. And as you can see, Nike definitely took note.

Nike Air Force 1 | Low Brave Blue

DJ Clark Kent x Air Force 1 | Black Friday

Questlove x Air Force 1 Low

Nike Air Force One Low Terror Squad

People who watched Moses Malone dominate during the 80s, saw Rasheed Wallace and the Pistons win the 2004 NBA finals, or became sneakerheads during the past decade know the Air Force 1 as the quintessential classic sneaker. After more than 40 years in production it is Nike all-time best selling sneaker and a new colorway release is always right around the corner.

Nike Air Force 1 | Sheed - Rasheed Wallace PE