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he Best Sneakers of the '90s Still Influencing Modern Styles

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The Best Sneakers of the '90s Still Influencing Modern Styles

Oct 31, 2025

Often considered the golden era of sneaker culture, the 1990s were a time of creativity and innovation. The best sneakers of the '90s are still on the shelves today. Brands like Nike, Adidas and Reebok turned sneaker style into a timeless classic during this decade as they introduced new tech, unique looks and versatile designs anyone could wear. 

Air Jordan Dominance: From NBA Glory to Global Icon

If anything dominated the ‘90s sneaker game, it was Air Jordan. Nike released a whopping 11 iterations of the iconic shoe, and each one was worth stepping out in. However, the AJ 5, 6, 7 and 11 stole the spotlight. They all exuded chicness and athleticism, bridging the gap between fashion and function. 


The AJ 5 is one of the best basketball sneakers of the '90s and is considered an elite design. Designed by the famous Tinker Hatfield, who was responsible for some of the TOP Nike sneakers, the AJ 5 had bold features that made a statement. With a shark-tooth midsole, reflective tongue and futuristic outsoles, it demanded attention. 


As one of the official Complex best sneakers of the '90s, the Air Jordan 11 is an essential sneaker from this decade. It topped the list of “The 90 Best Sneakers of the '90s,” so there’s no question that it’s iconic. 

All of these '90s kicks continue to be staples in the sneaker world. From the Jordan 5 Retro 35th Anniversary to the Jordan 7 Retro Cobalt Bliss, these Jordan sneakers transcend time and trends. 

Must-cop ‘90s Air Jordans:

Man in Nike Air Max 97

Nike’s Air Max Era & Training Innovation

The '90s ushered in Nike’s Air Max era, a style that endures to this day. Building upon the success of the Air Max 1 and Light from the 1980s, Nike released the Air Max 90, 180, 95, 97 and 98 TL. The 90, 95 and 97 are the standout styles and ones we still see in modern fashion. 


These kicks introduced striking elements, like the wavy designs on the Air Max 95 and 97. The look was a fluid and artistic style that felt cutting-edge, enticing fashionistas and athletes alike. The visible Air units you can see in all three designs were proof of innovation and high-end technology. You didn’t have to wonder about the cushioning technology because you could see it with your own eyes.


The Air Trainers were equally exceptional, showcasing the power and comfort of Nike’s new Air technology. The lightweight designs were at the center of sports and fashion, with irresistible models like the Nike Air Trainer SC II Bo Knows, made famous by MLB and NFL player Bo Jackson and the elegant Nike Air Trainer Huarache.

Unforgettable Nike sneakers from the '90s:

Adidas Minimalism and Functionality in the '90s

The best Adidas sneakers of the '90s included styles like the EQT Running Sport, Adimatic and KB8.  With the EQT and KB8, the brand focused on contrast and sharp lines, making for clean but bold looks. The streamlined accents and clean designs captured their high-end performance capabilities.


Adidas Originals was officially formed in 1997, although the shoe styles had been popular since the '70s. Originals styles, such as the Ozweego and Adimatic, were popular in street culture due to their unique yet casual designs. Adidas has re-imagined these styles again and again, so they’ve remained popular in each subsequent decade.


Top '90s kicks from Adidas:

  • Adidas EQT Running Support
  • Adidas KB8
  • Adidas Adimatic 
  • Adidas Matumbos 

Reebok Question

Reebok’s Performance Edge Meets Hype

Reebok’s best sneakers of the '90s were strongly NBA-coded, leaning into the popularity of athlete-endorsed styles. The Reebok Shaqnosis, a hypnotic and abstract shoe, capitalized on all the love for Shaq in the 1990s. The brand also introduced new tech, solidifying it as a dominating force in sports culture. 


Designs like the Reebok Instapump Fury and Reebok Pump feature premium Hexalite cushioning, laceless designs and a carbon fiber shank. They simultaneously gave players support and stability, making them some of the best basketball sneakers of the '90s. 


These Reebok shoes showed that the company could run with the big dogs in the NBA world. From the eye-catching Shaqnosis and Kamikaze 2 to the minimalistic Reebok Question, the '90s were a defining moment for Reebok.

Reebok’s standout '90s styles:


  • Reebok Instapump Fury 
  • Reebok Pump 
  • Reebok Shaqnosis
  • Reebok Kamikaze 2
  • Reebok Question 

The ’90s Legacy Skate Staples, Retro Drops and Style Reboots

This is only the tip of the '90s iceberg. From Vans sneakers, like the Half Cab, to the casual Converse One Star, the 1990s were a big moment for skater styles too. They brought those niche shoes into mainstream sneaker culture, redefining what people thought sneakers were.

Many '90s models are still among the most popular sneakers today, such as the Retro ASICS GEL-1130 and New Balance 1500. Brands continue to reinvent beloved models, releasing iterations that offer nostalgic feels and fresh looks. Whether it’s the OG Air Trainer or the AJ 11, these styles are alive and well. 

Shop '90s-inspired sneakers at Hibbett and wear kicks that are ingrained in the history and culture of shoes.

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