First introduced in 1996, the Nike Basketball Air Uptempo stands out as one of the most unique models from the rich Nike basketball shoe range. Its distinctive design, featuring bold branding and revolutionary Air technology, has made it a perfect on-court and streetwear sneaker. You’ll find it in different styles, designs, and colorways.
Most sneakers in this range feature an upper made of a combination of leather and synthetic materials, while some incorporate suede trims. The most recognizable feature in the Nike Basketball Air Uptempo is the “AIR" branding on both sides, a visual testament to the shoe's extensive incorporation of Nike's Air sole units. More branding details include Swoosh logos in different sizes on various parts of the sneaker. A standard lace-up closure with laces threaded through the eyelets in a standard zig-zag pattern and elastic straps that run across the tongue offer a snug and secure fit. Rope pull-tabs stitched across the tongue and heel guarantee easy on and off. The sole unit features a midsole made of Phylon foam with visible full-length Air Units and a rubber outsole with segmented herringbone pattern for traction.
The Nike Basketball Air Uptempo range has a few unique designs like the AMBUSH Vivid Sulfur Limestone, a low-cut offering with a build different from the traditional high-top basketball shoes. Another unique design in the selection is the Nike Air Max Uptempo. The lineup also includes slides with the signature ‘AIR’ branding on the sides and the same sole unit as the Nike Basketball Air Uptempo. Several special-edition releases and collaborations are part of this range. For instance, Nike has partnered with brands like Supreme and AMBUSH for different sneakers in this lineup. Special-edition releases include the City Pack, Tricolor, Scottie Pippen, EU City Pack, Knicks, Doernbecher, and Olympic. The selection also includes sneakers in different sizes, including Women's and Grade School (GS) sizing.
The Nike Basketball Air Uptempo can be paired with other Nike apparel, such as hoodies, t-shirts, sweatshirts, and shorts.