Nike Air Force 1 was first released in 1982 and designed by Bruce Kilgore. It was the first basketball shoe to feature Nike Air. The '07 version we see today is the 2007 updated version. The AF1 is so popular that it is one of the most counterfeited models, especially collaborations. This article summarizes how to tell how to spot authentic Air Force 1s and how to choose the right size.
7 Points to Check if Air Force 1s are Authentic or Fake
1. Toe Box Shape
Looking from the side, the toe box of an authentic pair slopes down smoothly without bulging. The ventilation holes on the toe are neatly arranged and uniform in size.
2. Swoosh
The Swoosh on an authentic pair has a beautiful curve and a sharp tip, positioned symmetrically. The stitching around the Swoosh is neat. Fakes often have a bulky Swoosh, a blunt tip, or are attached unevenly.
3. Heel Embroidery
The Nike Air lettering or collaboration logo on the heel must be sharp, with clearly separated letters. Fakes often show threads connecting the letters or letters that are joined together.
4. Tongue and Tongue Tag
The lettering on the tongue tag of an authentic pair is sharp, and it is sewn on straight with smooth edges. The padding inside the tongue is appropriately thick, not too flat or too stiff.
5. Sole
The AIR lettering on the side of the sole must be sharp and clearly embossed. The circular pattern on the bottom of the sole is uniformly sharp. There is no messy glue between the sole and the upper.
6. Size Tag and Box
The product code (Style Code) on the size tag inside the shoe must match the label on the side of the box. When searched, it should show the correct model and color.
7. UV Light
Authenticity check shops often use UV light to help inspect shoes because many fake pairs have outlines or glue marks that glow clearly, which authentic pairs rarely have.
Note: Even authentic pairs may have slightly imperfect stitching depending on the production batch. Do not judge by a single point; look at multiple points together and compare them with authentic pairs of the same model.
Do Air Force 1s Need to Be Sized Down by Half a Size?
Most people should size down. AF1s have a wide toe box and are larger than other Nike shoes. Nike itself recommends choosing half a size smaller than your regular Nike size.
| If You Regularly Wear | Air Force 1 Should Be |
|---|---|
| Nike / Jordan 1 Size US 9 | US 8.5 |
| Nike Dunk Size US 9 | US 8.5 |
| Wide Feet, Wear US 9 | US 9 Regular Size |
Mid and High models offer more ankle coverage. If sizing down by half a size feels tight, you can wear your regular size. See the US UK EU cm size chart at the shoe size chart.
Air Force 1s Available at NiceFeet
Everyday Basic Colors
Air Force 1 Low White '07, Air Force 1 '07 Low Panda, and Air Force 1 Low Flax Wheat
Collaborations
AF1 x Travis Scott Sail, AF1 x Supreme (WHITE), AF1 x Cactus Plant Flea Market (MOSS), AF1 x Off-White Sesame, AF1 x G-Dragon Para-Noise 2.0, and AF1 x Tiffany & Co. 1837
Where to Buy Authentic Air Force 1s in Thailand?
NiceFeet Siam Square Soi 2 sells Air Force 1s in both basic colors and collaboration models. 100% authentic. If proven to be fake, a full refund is provided. Free nationwide shipping. Installment payments are available by credit card subject to card conditions. You can also come and try them on in person every day from 12:00–20:00.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Fix Yellowing on White and Yellow AF1s?
Clean them with a soft brush and shoe cleaner. Avoid machine washing and direct sunlight, as the rubber soles will yellow faster.
What's the Difference Between Low and Mid?
Mids have ankle straps and more ankle coverage, while Lows leave the ankle exposed and are easier to wear in hot weather. The shoe shapes are similar.
Will Sizing Down by Half a Size Make Them Too Tight?
Usually, they won't be too tight because the AF1 toe box is already wide. If you have very wide feet or wear thick socks, wearing your regular size will be more comfortable.
