How Your New Favorite Sneakers Became So Popular: Nike Air Force 1

The history of the Air Force 1 plays out like an underdog story fit for Hollywood. After debuting to critical success, the shoe experienced a fall from grace but later rebounded to become one of the most popular silhouettes in sneaker history. The sneaker is so popular, in fact, that the Air Force 1 happens to be the highest-selling athletic shoe of all-time, which is pretty remarkable considering the Chuck Taylor All-Stars’ longevity or any Jordans’ popularity.

So how did the Nike Air Force 1 become so popular and stay that way? Click through the slides for a timeline of notable events in the shoe’s history.

Stephen Fiorentine is a freelance writer from Long Island. He loves his New York Giants and Yankees, as well as Cool Ranch Doritos. Follow Him on Twitter.