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Back in July of 2016, you may have noticed sneakerheads freaking out about an obscure release. The shoe-obsessed bubbles of Instagram, Twitter, and the like were buzzing about the release of a relatively bulky runner: the Nike Air Zoom Spiridon. So, what was it that compelled so many people towards this low key Dad shoe? A whole lot.
First, and as is always the case with retro sneakers, it’s worth noting the history of the Spiridon. Now, most fans of this modern streetwear gem are aware of its original drop back in 1997. But, the Spiridon has even deeper roots than that, with an earlier appearance of the name on a running shoe in 1984. That being said, these two releases might have been similarly named, but share almost nothing else.
The 1984 model was as minimalist as other runners during this time. Leather uppers, metallic Swoosh, and a durable midsole. That was about it. In fact, you wouldn’t have been faulted for mistaking it for the Waffle Racer. In contrast, the ‘97 Spiridon was a marker of Nike’s Zoom Air experimentation, having been handed the proverbial torch by 1996’s Air Alpha. Both sneakers boasted the new Zoom Air tech, but the Spiridon was a step further forward. Though the Spiridon shared the Alpha’s caged cushion set up, its upper was a deviation that stripped off any hints of leather for a fully mesh construction. As a lightweight performer (LWP) meant solely for running, the mix of a breathable, flexible upper and plush Phylon / Zoom Air made this a trailblazing model.
The Spiridon comes with some interesting marketing as well. The shoe was originally named after Spiridon Lewis, who won the first ever Olympic Marathon back in 1896. The story with this release was that anyone could slip these shoes on and run like an Olympic champion. The mesh construction easily lends itself to a feeling of approachability (rather than intimidation) and looked to invite others to run in a pair. Even the Spiridon’s heel pull tab and tongue coincided with this narrative, offering a snug and easy-to-put on fit system.
Some slightly more subtle hints earned the love of Nike heads from all over, including a forefoot that featured both a miniature Swoosh and Duralon technology.
You’d be hard pressed to find anyone at your local park running in these shoes. But, it wouldn’t take you long to find someone roaming the streets downtown in a pair. In a modern context, the Nike Air Spiridon has become a viable streetwear cult icon, making appearances at many a sneaker convention. In its own way, this sneaker represents an aesthetic ideal that sneaker brands like New Balance had been so revered for: pragmatism that borders on bulky. As a result, it stands out among today’s ocean of sharper and more streamlined silhouettes. Outside of its look, the Nike Air Zoom Spiridon has also been heralded as one of the most noticeably comfortable retro drops from the Swoosh to date.
So, take some time for a run outside. Or, maybe just plan on a night out with friends. Either way, the Spiridon was built for this. Check it out now at our Nike online store in Spain.