Louboutin! Dior! Gucci! Nike! These days, the American athletic apparel brand holds equal space in our hearts (and closets!) as fine Italian footwear. Gone is the notion that sneakers should be relegated to the gym and running weekend errands; with choices this bold, bright, and stylish, we'll take our kicks any days of the week [1] — and that includes Saturday . . . night! Whether embossed with lizard, softened with velvet, pretty in pink [2], or sending a strong message with graphic lettering, these 11 Nikes are so good, they'll make you ditch your heels. See you next time, Valentino; there's a new stud in town.
Like Mike
When Nike sets its mind to something, it goes big. Case in point: enlisting Instagram style star Aleali May to totally knock a classic on its side with this bold pastel set of Air Jordan 1 Sneakers [3] ($160).
Silver Streak
Sometimes the name says it all, and Nike's Chrome Blush Collection is just that: a dynamic duo of millennial pink and cool metallic accents that make these Lunarepic Low Flyknit 2 Sneakers [4] ($140) so now.
Petal Pusher
Who says flowers have to be girlie? This '70s-inspired graphic pair of Air Force 1 LNY Sneakers [5] ($130) is not to be messed with.
Velvet Crush
This season's hottest runway trend [6] extends far past romantic dresses and striking stilettos to this tactile pair of Air Force 1 Metallic Crushed-Velvet Sneakers [7] ($105).
Girl Power
When Nike teamed with Ruby Rose [8] on sneakers emblazoned with her personal mantras, the message was received loud and clear. This tough pair of SF Air Force 1 Force Is Female Sneakers [9] ($180) kicks butt in every way possible.
High Def
These Shox Gravity Sneakers [10] ($150) are not to be missed — in fact, they can't be missed with neon contrast accents and a futuristic silhouette.
Dream Weaver
The power of a marathon shoe combines with the appeal of high-fashion footwear for the Mayfly Woven Sneakers [11] ($110, originally $120). Those braided sides aren't just decorative, by the way; they enhance air flow.
Snake Charmer
Sneakers for evening? Maybe when they're the Cortez SE Metallic Lizard-Effect Faux Leather Sneakers [12] ($90). This disco-inspired golden shoe could rival the highest platforms on the dance floor ( . . . any guesses which pair's more comfortable?).
Booty Call
The most rugged of sneakers looks ultramodern and sleek in Nike's futuristic silhouette. Sure, they're traditionally reserved for hiking mountain trails, but you might want to save these Gaiters [13] ($250) for strutting the city streets.
Pretty in Pastels
If you thought luxurious calf hair was reserved for boots and bags, think again. These Air Max 95 Sneakers [14] ($190) up the ante on athleticwear in a big way.
Rainbow Brite
This bright pair isn't just an explosion of colors — it's jam-packed with features, too! Combining Nike's iconic Air Max Plus design with the feel of its Air VaporMax cushioning, these Air VaporMax Plus Sneakers [15] ($190) have it all. Literally.