Nike SF Air Force 1

SF Air Force 1

The Nike SF Air Force 1 was conceived by Nike Sportswear designer Ben Kirschner, who decided to unite two existing models: the Nike Special Forces Boot and the Air Force 1. The former was made with the Special Forces in mind. As such, it was a tough boot featuring enhanced durability and added protective components. Meanwhile, the concentric circle grip markings on the tread of the latter make it boot-appropriate. The SF Air Force 1 (here, SF stands for Special Field) has fused these hardy elements with lifestyle aspects to create an AF1 model adapted for use in challenging weather conditions.

Though not quite as tall as a traditional military-issue boot, it has a high collar that extends well above the ankle. A heel strip goes from the midsole to the collar, where it finishes in a convenient pull tab. Three loops have been worked into this strip, through which two adjustable ankle straps can be threaded to give a tighter, more secure fit. One of these is a paracord band fastened using a quick-release plastic clip, and the other is a woven strap with a metal auto-lock webbing buckle. The latter carries a patch with data about the model and text that reads “Winterized issue footwear” to show off the SF Air Force 1’s weatherproof credentials. In addition, both straps can be removed based on the wearer’s preferences.

Within, the boot features a broad gusseted tongue that is connected to the shoe from the base and all the way up the sides, keeping everything insulated while preventing water and debris from getting inside. It also has a tab that loops over the top to become an “espionage pocket” on the inside of the tongue. Inspired by Christian Bale’s boots in the movie “Rescue Dawn,” this supplementary pouch is secured by Velcro as well as a button, making it a safe place to keep small items.

The upper of the SF AF1 incorporates high-quality leather or suede overlays in the fore and midfoot, with classic perforation patterns in the toe box as well as double lines of stitches joining the different segments together. The rear section is made of flexible but protective ballistic mesh, showing its military inspirations. The swoosh is the same material as the front portion of the sneaker and begins at the midfoot panel before reaching back to wrap around the heel, where it joins the swoosh on the other side. Its edges are straight, with no tapering toward the narrow tail. Underneath its front end, two metal ventilation holes aerate the midfoot through a fine mesh. Similar metal rings reinforce the eyelets, and metal lace clips through which rope-like laces can be tied protrude from the top of the eyestay. Durable elements like this ensure that the Special Field Air Force 1 exudes precision and strength while also maintaining an eye-catching appeal.