7 Best Nike Retro Sneakers, 100+ Shoes Tested in 2023
If you take your shoe game really serious, these top-rated Nike retro sneakers are definitely a must-have. Completely versatile and timeless, you can wear these iconic kicks anywhere and in whatever occasion. Just flaunt this classic look that naturally blends in the streets.
Start navigating through our filtering system to conveniently sift through our extensive selection of old-school sneaks from the Swoosh label. If you’re a fan of Nike Air Max and Air Force 1s, there’s a wide range of Nike retro sneakers in the catalog. You’ll also find classic leather sneakers and breathable mesh models.
We considered 100+ pairs of the best Nike retro sneakers currently in the market. Get the perfect fit with any of the top picks below.
Table of contents How we test sneakersBest overallBest high topBest low topBest mid topBest skateBest valueMost popularComparison
Overview
How we test sneakers
To make our shoe guide, we delve deeper into the minutest details of each pair of Nike retro kicks. We don’t just do a simple on-foot fitting of the shoes. We make sure all the sneakers go through the same rigorous vetting process at the RunRepeat lab.
Our top rankings are based on the following:
- Spend our own hard-earned money, time, and sweat to perform our wear-testing independently. We don’t agree to any sponsorship to ensure all our feedback are 100% unbiased.
- Perform a series of mechanical tests at the lab and performance assessments in the street. That means lacing up the sneakers for athletic events, day-to-day activities, and daily streetwear.
- Evaluate each model’s overall function and versatility after days of wear and tear usage. We take note of their in-shoe feel, break-in period, fit, weight, balance, cushioning, durability, arc support, grip, and many more.
- Scour internet sneakerhead forums, thousands of customer reviews, and best-seller listings to collect more comparable data.
Lastly, we assign all the Nike retro sneakers their overall performance ratings. Go to the CoreScore to see all the highly-rated models.
Best Nike retro sneakers overall
CoreScore
- Top 15% most popular sneakers
Pros
- True to size
- Very comfy
- Nice fit
- Breathable
- Nice design
Cons
- Heavy
- Tight collar
Verdict
Nike has put a nice design into Air Force 270. It’s not running nor a training shoe but a lifestyle shoe. It has the looks of a basketball shoe but the feel of a running or training shoes. You can use this for special occasions but not for strolling in the mall and driving. If you're planning to use this when you travel, be ready to remove them during inspections because it will take you some time.
Best Nike retro high top sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 1% in sneakers
- Top 1% in Nike sneakers
- Top 23% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Snug fit
- Amazing colorways
- Can take a beating
- Excellent for skating
- Good ankle support
- Quality construction
- Comfy on foot
Cons
- Needs time to break in
- Pricey
Verdict
The Nike SB Dunk High Pro does not only exhibit an attractive design. It also captures the favor of both members of the skate community and casual wearers for its reliable performance and versatility. This unwavering excellence is brought forth constantly by the new colorways and collaborations that keep its spirit alive.
Best Nike retro low top sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 3% in sneakers
- Top 2% in Nike sneakers
Pros
- Lightweight
- Great cushioning
- Versatile
- Soft
- Durable
- Affordable
Cons
- Uncomfortable heel
Verdict
A limited and unique rendition of Daybreak, the Nike Daybreak Undercover features original nylon and suede with a plastic piece added to the heel. Its contemporary design can easily match a variety of outfits. Takahashi's redefinition of Tailwind is something to check, especially for those who are into sports and style.
Best Nike retro mid top sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 12% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Fits true to size
- Durable leather construction
- Retro styling
- Surprisingly breathable
- Could make a winter sneaker
Cons
- Limited colorways
- Not very flexible
- Has hotspots where the shoe rubs on the toe
Verdict
There's no doubt about it, the Nike Air Trainer 3 is a beautiful shoe. A resurrection of the 1988 Nike Air Trainer SC, Nike built this as a pioneering crossover for multiple sports. Today it's a piece of history and looks the part too. There are some minor comfort issues, but with its durability, once worn in it'll last a lifetime.
Best Nike retro skate sneakers
CoreScore
- Top 1% in sneakers
- Top 1% in Nike sneakers
- Top 26% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Comfortable cushion
- Quality construction
- Unique
- Retro style
- Lightweight
- Supportive
- Durable
Cons
- Narrow toe box
Verdict
Nike added another premium iteration to its Nike SB Blazer collection. The Nike SB Zoom Blazer Mid Premium is covered with high-quality materials, inserted with cozy and supportive features. Meanwhile, its style delivers a luxurious appeal that will quickly turn any usual outfit into a ritzy vibe. This model surely fits buyers who are searching for cheap sneakers with an upscale look.
Best value
CoreScore
- Top 1% in nyjah huston sneakers
- Top 5% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Supreme fit
- Comfortable in-shoe feel
- Durable upper construction
- Breathable
- Variety of colorways
- Tight lock with Nike's lace system
Cons
- Mesh is not as durable as the rest of the shoe
- Not the grippiest
- Hard to clean some areas
Verdict
The Nike SB Nyjah Free 2 is a leading silhouette in the skateboard scene. Clearly beginning to see the skateboard market as an Olympic one, Nike has started using innovation from its Air Max lines in the Nyjah and we love it. From a sock-like fit to an enhanced board feel, there's a lot going on in the Nyah Free 2.
Most popular Nike retro sneakers
Nike Air Max Excee
Amazon
Prime & free shipping
$50
Stadium Goods
$65
Nike
$90
ASOS
Free shipping & returns
$90
CoreScore
- Top 3% most popular sneakers
Pros
- Fits true to size
- Perfect for sporty outfits
- Insanely comfortable
- Cheaper than many Air Max
- Colors IRL are even better than the ones on the screen
- Wide choice of colorways
Cons
- Stiff
- There's very little airflow
- Poor durability
Verdict
The Nike Air Max Excee is a sneaker that comes with loads of vibrant and exciting colorways. From nostalgic neon greens and purples to more muted and earthy tones. While the quality of the sneaker is not hugely impressive, it is a fair bit cheaper than some of the other offerings in the Air Max lineup, which is always nice to see.
