Nike Uptempo

Featuring a bold side profile, the Nike Air More Uptempo is a rather unique silhouette among the brand’s other sneakers, but one that’s guaranteed to stand out in your shoe collection. When it first landed in ’96, worn by professional basketball player Scottie Pippen of the Chicago Bulls, it’s fair to say that competition was stiff on the court. And we’re not talking about shooting hoops. Jordan sneakers were making their mark, so if your name was anything except MJ, there was only so much limelight to go around. Nevertheless, the Nike Uptempo persists to this day, having made an impression with its striking ‘AIR’ lettering on the upper, which resembles something a graffiti artist would come up with. The trainer also boasts a heel-to-toe Air unit, a welcome addition for Pippen (an athlete who spent much of his career off the ground) and a visually appreciated creative choice for those showing off their Uptempos on the daily.