If you've ever thought about wearing your classic Nike Air Force 1s for a hike in the rain or snow, you've probably quickly abandoned the idea—unless you had a sense of comedy. Now, Nike has combined waterproof Gore-Tex with a Vibram sole, making these sneakers more wilderness-ready than some hiking boots. In a black version, they're not only durable, but also stealthy enough to be worn by a secret agent on a mission in the urban jungle. Are they worth your money? Read on to find out why these Nike Air Force 1 GTX Vibrams aren't just a fashion accessory, they're a true warrior against the elements.
Imagine your old, reliable family car suddenly getting bulletproof armor and rally tires - that's about the feeling when Nike takes his classics Air Force One and arms them with Gore-Tex and Vibram. These sneakers, born on basketball courts in 1982, now attack rain, snow and slippery pavements like an urban tank, but still look stylish enough to wear to a meeting. Slightly cynically, if the regular AF1 is like a reliable Golf, these are like a GTI in a storm - they will convince you faster that winter is fun. But is it? Let's delve into the details of the Nike Air Force 1 gtx vibram, where the real power of these black beauties lies, promising to keep your feet dry while you enjoy the chaos of the city.
Key features at a glance
- Model: Nike air force 1 gtx vibram (SKU: HV5953-001).
- Color scheme: Off noir/black/speed yellow – basically all black with a yellow Vibram logo for the only color accent.
- Upper: Leather coated with Gore-Tex for complete waterproofness.
- Sole: Vibram with improved grip for wet and slippery surfaces.
- Shoelaces: Round, cable-style, inspired by hiking boots.
- Additional features: Padded collar, ballistic mesh tongue, air cushioning in the midsole.
- The price: 150 USD (approx. 129 €)
A brief history of the weatherproof Air Force 1
When Nike first added a Gore-Tex membrane to its legendary air force 1, designed by Bruce Kilgore in 1982, aimed to be worn in all-weather conditions without sacrificing the iconic look. But early versions had a weak point: a conventional rubber sole that didn’t inspire confidence in the wet—it was like driving a Ferrari on summer tires in the snow. This new iteration fixes that with Vibram technology, which dominates hiking. The result? A sneaker that handles wet roads better than some true hiking boots, but still looks like a classic AF1.
Technical Breakdown: What's Beneath the Surface
These nike air force 1 gtx vibram They're constructed from leather coated with Gore-Tex—that ePTFE membrane that blocks rain and snow while allowing moisture to evaporate from the inside to keep your feet dry. It's like having an invisible raincoat for your feet. The perforations on the toes are now just for decoration, not ventilation to maintain waterproofness. The tongue is made of ballistic mesh material for added durability, while the midsole retains the classic Air cushioning—soft as a cloud, yet rugged enough for everyday use.
But the real star is underneath: a Vibram sole with a deeper tread for traction, familiar from hiking boots. The yellow Vibram logo on the heel and medial side is the only color interrupter in an otherwise black symphony. These sneakers aren't just for the street; they're like the tank among sneakers - sturdy, yet still lightweight.
Competitive framework
In the weatherproof sneaker segment, nike air force 1 gtx vibram They compete with rivals like the adidas terrex free hiker or the merrell moab speed gore-tex – they are more hiking but less urban. In comparison, the Nike maintains a street style, while the vibram sole competes with the grip of real hikers. For urban use, these sneakers are more versatile, without looking like they came from the woods.
Model heritage
Air Force 1 They started out as basketball sneakers in 1982, but have become cultural icons. The addition of Gore-Tex in 2019 made them more practical, and now Vibram raises the bar to a new level - from the street to the gentle wilderness, without losing the spirit. This generation brings a balance between tradition and technology.
Conclusion: nike air force 1 gtx vibram
These nike air force 1 gtx vibram are not just another variation on a classic silhouette; they are a real upgrade for those who want style and functionality in one. Slightly cynically speaking, if you are tired of wet feet in the rain, but do not want to look like a hiker on vacation, these sneakers are the solution. Positive? Every pair delivers value – ruggedness without exaggeration, air cushioning comfort and a stealthy look that goes with everything. At €129 (converted), they are a suitable choice for urban warriors who appreciate quality. If you live in a rainy climate, I recommend them; for dry days, they are still better than regular sneakers. In the end, every shoe has its pluses – and these have more than you would expect from an old school.
