Nike's Air Force 1 Gore-Tex Is the Pinnacle of Winterized Sneakers
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If you're a dedicated sneaker-wearer, picking a pair during the harsh winter months can prove difficult, especially if you live in a city where you're doing a lot of walking and slush-puddle hopping. The sneakerhead in me can't accept the idea of only wearing boots all winter long, so a good looking winterized sneaker is a crucial part of my cold-weather rotation.
Whether you're like me, or just an Air Force 1 loyalist in need a great functional sneaker to get you through the season, Nike’s got something for you: The Nike Air Force 1 GORE-TEX. Although we’ve seen some winterized Nike AF 1s in the past (interestingly enough, the AF1 design was inspired by a hiking boot called Nike Air Approach), this iteration is the first pair to be equipped with GORE-TEX waterproof technology. That makes this the ultimate winter sneaker. Here's why.
You can't argue with the function.
Having to go outside in the snow or rain—a.k.a GORE-TEX weather—already sucks. There’s no reason to make it worse by spending the whole day at work in wet cold socks. The entire upper of this shoe is lined with the GORE-TEX bootie (that's what keeps your feet warm and dry.) Better yet, the non-marking rubber outsole adds amazing traction.
They're made to wear—not to display.
I’m one of those sneakerheads that likes my sneakers a little worn and aged because it adds character. But generally, the AF1 is not the kind of sneaker that looks good beat. There is an old saying in the sneaker community “never trust someone with a dirty pair of white AF1s.” Because that only applies to the white on white colorway, you won’t have to worry about keeping this pair fresh. GORE-TEX also makes the shoes stain-proof. That, coupled with the notoriously thick AF1 outsole, make for a shoe that will last you a long time.
With five colorway options, styling is easy.
The great thing about most Air Force 1s is that they're versatile and easy to work into your everyday wardrobe. The uppers are mixed with textile fabric which allows the shoes to breath (and also prevents the toe box from creasing) and full-grain leather which adds a premium touch without breaking the bank. If the black pair here doesn't work with your current wardrobe, don't worry—Nike offers this sneaker in five other colorways.
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