Before the Dunk, before the Air Force 1, there was the Blazer — Nike's first basketball shoe, released in 1973. Fifty-plus years later it is one of the most versatile lifestyle sneakers in the catalog, and its journey from hardwood to everyday uniform is worth knowing.
Born on the basketball court
The Blazer was named after Nike's hometown NBA team, the Portland Trail Blazers, and worn by stars like George Gervin — the Iceman himself. It was a simple, high-top leather shoe built for the 1970s game: vulcanized-style sole, padded collar, big Swoosh. When basketball shoes got more technical in the 80s, the Blazer faded from the court — but its clean silhouette was too good to die.
The skateboard second act
In the 2000s, Nike SB adopted the Blazer, slimming it down and giving it skate-ready upgrades. Collabs with legends like Lance Mountain introduced it to a new generation, and the Blazer Low became a skatepark staple. That era proved the silhouette could be stripped back and rebuilt for completely different cultures — the mark of a true classic.
How to wear them now
The Blazer Mid '77 Vintage is the sweet spot: aged midsole, retro Swoosh, endless colorways. The slim profile pairs perfectly with straight-leg denim, chinos, and even shorts. One sizing note — Blazers run narrow, so wide-footers should consider going up half a size. Otherwise, true to size, lace them up, and you have a shoe that works harder than pairs three times the price.
Related: Shop the Nike SB Zoom Blazer Mid - Pale Ivory/Noble Red
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