Looking Back At The Best Nike Sneakers Released in the Last Few Years

Nike is about as close as it comes to a behemoth in the sneaker and sportswear industry. Nike sneakers — immediately recognizable thanks to their Swoosh branding — are some of the best, most stylish, and most popular sneakers across a wide variety of sports and categories — including lifestyle.

The Oregon-based brand that originated as a ASICS distributor and has since grown into one of the most valuable companies in the world, produces everything from specialty, sports-specific shoes, to purely lifestyle models, as well as some of the most technologically-advanced sneakers.

The dominance of sneakers was first established through high-quality, industry-leading running sneakers, with which the brand made its name in the ’70s. Since then, Nike has positioned itself as an all-encompassing giant, producing and for some of the world’s greatest athletes, as well as collaborating with some of the hottest designers and brands.

These collaborators include recurring collections with Stüssy, Bode, and Matthew Williams, even Fortnite(!). The collaborative Nike sneakers are often unveiled at fashion weeks around the world, adding to the allure and exclusivity of the brand.

With so many collaborations, a top-notch history of , and different types of Nike sneakers, it can get difficult to keep up with all of the releases, which is why we’ve put together a comprehensive list of some of the best Nike sneakers from recent years.

Scroll through below to discover some underrated general releases, hidden gems, or absolute classic Nike sneakers.

Kobe 5 Proto X-Ray

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The Kobe 5 Protro X-Ray is a testament to Nike's commitment to innovation and performance combined with creativity and community in mind. This Kobe 5 Proto features its signature low-profile silhouette designed for speed and agility on the court loved. Equipped with Nike's advanced cushioning technology, the Kobe 5 Protro X-Ray offers exceptional responsiveness and impact protection, making it a top choice for athletes seeking both style and functionality.

The shoes also play on Kobe's 2010 Nike t-shirt, which featured an x-ray of Kobe's hand injuries, each finger topped with all five of his championship rings to convey of a "beaten not broken" message.

Nike Air Max 1 Patta Chlorophyll 20th Anniversary

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Patta has a long history of making hyped Air Max 1 sneakers, a continued collaboration that honors its Amsterdam roots. "In Amsterdam, the Air Max 1 became a game-changer through hip-hop,” Tim Sabajo, Patta’s general manager previously told Highsnobiety.

The Nike Air Max 1 Patta Chlorophyll 20th Anniversary is a celebration of two decades of iconic collaboration between Nike and . This sneaker features the beloved Air Max 1 silhouette reimagined with a fresh “Chlorophyll” colorway, blending earthy greens and crisp whites for a look that’s incredibly timeless. Premium suede overlays, mesh panels, and Patta’s signature wavy mudguard add texture and sophistication to the design.

The Nike x Patta Air Max 1 ‘Chlorophyll’ is among the most hyped collaborations between the two brands. If you were considering spending four figures to buy a pair on resale sites, I’d recommend waiting for its imminent re-release. 

Nike NOCTA Glide Drake Black

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The Nike NOCTA Glide in Drake Black is a collaboration between Nike and, you guessed it, . Seemingly seen everywhere, it features anall-black colorway and streamlined silhouette.

Subtle NOCTA branding adds a touch of exclusivity, maybe Drake secretly wanted to be a baller and always wished for his own signature shoe, while the innovative sole unit provides superior cushioning and support for all-day comfort.

Whether you're a fan of Drake or simply appreciate cool sneaker design, the NOCTA Glide Drake Black is one of the best Nike releases of the last few years.

Nike Dunk High Wu-Tang (2024)

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The Nike Dunk High Wu-Tang, released in 2024, pays homage to the legendary hip-hop group Wu-Tang Clan.

This sneaker features the iconic black and yellow color scheme synonymous with the group, with premium leather construction for a high-quality look and feel. The iconic Wu-Tang logo is prominently displayed on the tongue and heel, adding a distinctive touch that sets this release apart from other Dunk High models.

With its combination of cultural significance and timeless design, the Nike Dunk High Wu-Tang is a celebration of the group, but also shows the strong bridge between the Oregon giant and the hip-hop community.

Nike CPFM Flea 1 Cactus Plant Flea Market Desert Moss

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The Nike CPFM Flea 1 in collaboration with Cactus Plant Flea Market introduces a whimsical and avant-garde design to the sneaker world. The Desert Moss colorway features earthy tones with vibrant accents, reflecting a blend of natural inspiration and urban aesthetics.

Asymmetrical lacing and a bold branding, contribute to the sneaker's unconventional charm but defnitely makes it a head-turner as well.

Nike Astro Grabber SP Bode Black Coconut Milk

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The Nike Astro Grabber SP in collaboration with presents a retro-inspired design that blends vintage aesthetics with modern minimalist design.

The Black Coconut Milk colorway features a gorgoeus monochromatic upper with subtle contrast makes this release the perfect example of how a sneaker can have understated elegance.

Premium suede and leather materials provide a luxurious feel, while the classic silhouette pays tribute to Nike's rich heritage, the one we all know and recognize.

Nike Air Zoom Vomero 5 Doernbecher

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The Nike Air Zoom Vomero 5 Doernbecher is a special edition release as part of Nike's Doernbecher Freestyle program, which empowers young individuals to design their own sneakers.

This iteration of the Vomero 5 features a vibrant and playful color orange scheme, reflecting the creativity and spirit of its young designer. While supporting a meaningful cause, this silouetthe is as ubiquitous as it is iconic.

Nike Sabrina 2 EP 'Conductor'

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In the basketball world, The Nike Sabrina 2 EP 'Conductor' is a women's exclusive release inspired by WNBA star and Nike's athlethe Sabrina Ionescu.

In short, the 'Conductor' colorway reflects Ionescu's leadership and poise, making this sneaker a fitting tribute to her influence in the sport.

Nike Air Max SNDR Gore-Tex 'Hyper Crimson'

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The women's Nike Air Max SNDR Gore-Tex 'Hyper Crimson' has always been standout choice for all-weather wear. The vibrant Hyper Crimson colorway adds a bold pop of color, while the Gore-Tex lining ensures waterproof protection, keeping your feet dry in whatever wet conditions you might find yourself in.

The upper features a mix of synthetic materials and mesh, providing durability and breathability. The signature Air Max cushioning offers exceptional comfort, making this sneaker suitable for all-day wear.

Nike Air Max 90 Scarab Halloween

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The Nike Air Max 90 'Scarab' Halloween edition brings a spooky twist to the classic Air Max 90 silhouette. This sneaker features a dark, iridescent upper reminiscent of a scarab beetle, adding an eerie yet captivating aesthetic.

Nike Air Max Plus Sunset

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The Nike Air Max Plus Sunset channels the energy of a blazing horizon, combining vibrant orange and yellow hues with deep black accents for a truly striking look that simply had to make this list.

Its colorful legacy was established with the Air Max Plus’ first release, a three-part drop where each colorway represented different times of the day, and one of those original makeovers from 1998 has quietly made its return.

The gradient upper creates a smooth transition between warm sunset tones, while the wavy TPU overlays add depth and texture, giving the shoe a futuristic vibe. Lightweight mesh ensures breathability, making it as functional as it is stylish.

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