17. Nike Kobe 5
If it weren’t for the reverence that so many in the NBA world held for Kobe Bryant, we might otherwise acknowledge the fact that this is a pretty unspectacular-looking shoe.
But the low-top design of these shoes were inspired by soccer boots, with the goal of making them as light but simultaneously as durable as possible, for optimum performance.
Released: 2010 | Worn by: Kobe Bryant
16. Adidas KB8
This strappy, marshmallowy-looking classical high-top sneaker was made most famous by Kobe Bryant when he wore them in the famed 1998 NBA All-Star game, which would be the first time he crossed paths with Michael Jordan in such a contest.
Bryant apparently liked the shoe enough that they became a regular in his rotation for the next year or so, often being spotted in the 1999 NBA Playoffs.
Released: 1998 | Worn by: Kobe Bryant
15. Nike Dunk
As if the North Carolina “powder blue,” combined with the retro-looking classical design of the high-top sneakers didn’t give it away, these Nike Dunk shoes are not only hallowed basketball apparel, but a collector’s item as well.
The blue color of these shoes was swapped for a myriad of colors from other colleges, as part of Nike’s “Be True To Your School” campaign.
Released: 1985 | Worn by: Multiple
14. AND1 Tai Chi
Despite what the name of the shoe would tell you, we’ll go ahead and speculate there’s no point in time over the past two decades when you would’ve seen Vince Carter performing slow-motion martial arts moves in the park while wearing these kicks.
But, if they do look familiar to you, it’s with good reason; Carter donned these shoes in the legendary 2000 dunk contest, when the myth of “half man, half amazing” was officially born.
Released: 2000 | Worn by: Vince Carter
13. Nike Air More Uptempo
Lest anyone forgets about the “Air” in these “Air More Uptempo” shoes, the ostentatious “A-I-R” that is somehow both subtly and overtly written across the side of the shoe, serves as ample reminder.
A favorite of Scottie Pippen during the 1995-1996 championship season with the Chicago Bulls, the shoe has also become very popular in the all-white version — if not more popular than the original version.
Released: 1996 | Worn by: Scottie Pippen
12. Puma Clyde
It’s crazy how a low-cut shoe once donned by one of the greatest players in the history of the New York Knicks’ franchise now looks like a pair of kicks you’d wear to a summer cookout. But, the Puma Clyde, awarded to the great Walt Frazier, was a trailblazer in the concept of NBA footwear making its mainstream crossover.
Released: 1973 | Worn by: Walt Frazier