Looking for an Air Force 1 alternative opens up a world of options, but with so many choices, finding the perfect substitute can be overwhelming.
That's where our list of shoes Like Air Force 1s comes in. We've sifted through various sneaker brands to identify trainers that not only resemble the iconic Air Force 1 but also offer a slightly cheaper alternative.
Consider this list a starting point for discovering the best sneakers akin to the iconic Air Force 1 that align with your taste. Make sure you check out our list of the best sneaker deals too, as it might just help you save some cash picking up any of these great trainers.
Shoes like Air Force 1s
- Nike Court Vision - a close Nike alternative
- PUMA GV Special - a similar yet different option from PUMA
- adidas Forum - the closest alternative from adidas
- Reebok Club C 85 - a stylish lookalike from Reebok
- Nike Blazer - a timeless Nike model
Nike Court Vision
The Nike Court Vision is often mistaken for the Air Force 1 due to its striking resemblance, making it an ideal alternative for those seeking a similar style at a lower price point. For instance, despite the "Valentine's Day" Court Vision having the same design as the 2022 "Valentine's Day" Air Force 1, the Court Vision was more affordable at launch.
The price difference can be attributed to the Air Force 1's long history and iconic status, which keeps it in the spotlight. Additionally, the Court Vision lacks the Air bubbles in the midsole that the Air Force 1 has, which may make it slightly less comfortable.
Depsite lacking the Air units, the Court Vision offers a comparable look to the Air Force 1 without the higher cost, making it a great value option for those who want a similar aesthetic.
TL;DR - In short:
- Made by the same brand
- Almost identical in appearance
Read More: Best shoes like Jordan 1s
PUMA GV Special
If you're looking for an alternative to Nike with a similar 'chunky' aesthetic, the PUMA GV Special is a solid choice. Originally designed for tennis, this sneaker, much like the Air Force 1, has its roots in sports. With its packed midsole, it offers enhanced comfort that rivals Nike's iconic basketball shoes from 1982.
The PUMA GV Special shares design elements that draw parallels to the Air Force 1. Perforations across the toebox and the curved lines along the sides give it a look reminiscent of Nike’s iconic Swoosh, making it a very similar-looking sneaker as a result.
So, if you're searching for a shoe like the Air Force 1 but want to branch out from Nike, the PUMA GV Special is definitely worth considering.
TL;DR - In short:
- The GV Special has a similar look and history rooted in sport
- The model is cheaper than most Air Force 1s on the market
Read More: Best shoes like Nike Dunks
adidas Forum
At first glance, the adidas Forum and Air Force 1 may seem distinct, but there are surprising similarities between these iconic models, especially in their origins. Both shoes debuted in the '80s as basketball-centric footwear, with NBA stars like Patrick Ewing sporting the Forum, much like the Air Force 1's rise in the basketball world.
Their shared basketball heritage is reflected in their design, particularly the 'chunky' midsoles both models feature. In fact, when viewed head-on, it can be hard to tell them apart, aside from the Forum's signature tongue strap.
Ultimately, the adidas Forum shares more with the Air Force 1 than initially meets the eye. As one of the best adidas shoes, it offers a compelling alternative for sneaker enthusiasts who appreciate both heritage and style.
TL;DR - In short:
- Very closely related, with a similar beginning in basketball
- It's a great alternative to consider if you prefer adidas shoes
Read More: Best shoes like Converse
Reebok Club C 85
The Reebok Club C 85, like the PUMA GV Special, was originally designed for tennis but has since become a versatile everyday sneaker, much like the iconic Air Force 1. Its tennis-inspired origins, paired with a sleek design, give it a similar appeal to Nike's classic.
With a wide range of color options, the Club C 85 mirrors the versatility seen in the Air Force 1 collection. If you're a fan of the popular "White" Air Force 1 '07, Reebok's selection of white Club C 85s makes it a strong alternative.
For those looking for a stylish and versatile shoe like Nike’s Air Force 1, the Reebok Club C 85 is definitely worth considering.
TL;DR - In short:
- Sports-based history like the Air Force 1
- It's particularly close to the popular "White" Air Force 1 '07 in terms of looks
Read More: Best shoes like Vans
Nike Blazer
The Nike Blazer is a standout alternative to the iconic Air Force 1, offering a similar blend of aesthetic appeal and basketball legacy. Remarkably, the Blazer not only shares this lineage but actually precedes the Air Force 1 by nearly a decade. This timeline suggests that Bruce Kilgore, the creative mind behind the Air Force 1, may have found inspiration in the Blazer's distinctive design during his own creative process.
The Blazer typically features a high-top silhouette, catering to those who favor a more traditional basketball shoe profile. However, it also accommodates preferences for a lower collar, with numerous low-cut versions available.
In short, the Nike Blazer secures its reputation as one of the top alternatives to the Air Force 1, not just for its shared heritage and design cues, but as a distinguished choice among the best Nike sneakers on the market.
TL;DR - In short:
- Also made by Nike for basketball originally
- It looks very similar to the Air Force 1, but there is more of a retro feel to it
Read More: Best shoes like Jordan 4s
That's it! Hopefully, you've managed to find yourself a new, great alternative to the Air Force 1 to add to your collection. Stay tuned for more guides like this at RealKit.
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