Nike Air Max shoes do increase your height but by how much? In this article, we’ll compare the different Nike Air Max models and exactly how many inches and centimetres in height they add. 

Do you feel friends or people treat you differently because you’re short? Yes! Well, you’ve come to the right place. Comments from the community from people looking for the same answer have been included.

Imagine being equal in height or even towering above everyone. We got you covered!

I test, feel, and wear countless sneakers when reviewing them for sneaker enthusiasts like yourself. Did you know that added height boosts your confidence, provides good heel support, looks good, and is stylish when walking.

Nike Air Max TW

I own a pair of Nike Air Max TW; they are a great choice if you want comfort. Check out my thoughts on sizing and fit in this in-depth video review.

Air Max 97

The Nike Air Max 97 increases height by 1.8 inches (4.57 cm); this was precisely measured by a digital calliper tool. It’s an all-around sneaker; you can rock it with shorts, cargo pants, or jeans.

Air Max 270 

If you want something affordable that adds extra inches, the Air Max 97 is the go-to sneaker. But beware, the air bubble can pop. Check out our article Nike Air Bubble, Popped? 5 Must-Do Things To Fix for tips and guidance.

Air Max 90

Nike Air Max 90 adds 1.5 inches (3.68 cm) in height. It is an everyday sneaker with all the essential features of comfort, style, and looks. 

The Nike Air Max sneakers measured using a digital caliper add an average of 1.70 inches (4.32 cm) to your height.  

Comments from the community 

Reddit Comments

Final Verdict:   

• No sneakers can make you taller, but they can add height. 
• The bubble in Air Max sneakers tends to pop, something to keep in mind. 
• Rather than a height increase, choose sneakers that are either comfortable, fit snug, or are cheaper budget Nike sneakers.  
• Check out my youtube channel for more in-depth reviews. 

FAQ

Related Articles

• Comfy New Balance Shoes That Add Extra Height
• 11 Comfy Shoes That Make You Taller & (3 That Don’t)
• 17 Best Adidas Sneakers That Make You Taller
• Reebok Shoes That Add Height: Taller Instantly

The Nike Tailwind line-up inspires the Air Max TW 2022 sneaker. Starting with the Air Max Tailwind 96, followed by similar striking versions. Since 1996, there have been four Air Max Tailwinds released. 

The reimagined Air Max TW sneakers make the most of premium-feeling synthetic leathers, mesh, air bubble cushioning, and updated cushlon midsoles. Discover Nike trainers that add the most height.

Designed as a lifestyle sneaker, we tested them in the gym, and this is what we discovered.

Do the Air Max TWs run true to size?

Yes, the Nike Air Max TW runs true to size and feels snug on your feet. The tongue is connected to an elastic glove-like inner feature that makes your foot feel snug. If you have wide or flat feet would suggest wearing thinner socks and loosening the laces rather than sizing up. 

Things to think about when buying the Air Max TW… 

Editor: I don’t like how the tongue is connected to the sneaker with elastic, and the thick padded heel collar makes it awkward to put on. The design is a bit loud; I talk more about this in the review.   

What size should you get? 

If you wear the Nike Air Max TW for casual wear, I recommend going true to size as you would for other sneakers. 

Narrow Feet

You may feel like they run big for narrow feet, but get your normal size and tighten the laces slightly. The tongue is connected to the sneaker with elastic, which feels like a glove ideal for exploring urban cities – Discover why the Nike Air Max TW is the best walking shoe.

Medium Feet

For medium-width feet, the Nike Air Max TW trainers will fit snugly on your feet; it’s best to loosen the laces slightly for the best fit. 

Wide Feet

They run true to size for wide feet, suggesting you get your regular size. If the sneaker feels too tight, remove the insole and wear them without. You do lose comfort, so pick your socks wisely. 

Extra tips for wide feet 

• If you have wide feet, the widest part of your foot will likely be pressed against the toe box. Wear thinner socks; I found this helps a lot. 
• Using a long shoe horn to comfortably put the shoes on causes less soreness to fingers as no heel pull is attached. 

How to clean Nike Air Max?

The Nike Air Max TW is made with a mesh upper. To clean, sneaker wipes with a textured side are best to get all the dirt off. 

Discover the best way to clean the trainer’s cleaning video. 

To keep the Air Max TW fresh, place them in freezer bags (which keep dust away) and insert shoe trees inside (maintain shape). 

What to do if you have two different size feet?

Having different-sized feet is normal, and if the difference in size is small, you should:

• Choose the larger size if feet are between sizes or if one foot is bigger. 
• Wear thinner or thicker socks, depending on the difference in size. 
• Measure in the late afternoon when feet are largest due to swelling.
• Loosen laces if the shoes become tight. 

Final Verdict:  

• Priced high for a casual everyday sneaker. 
• Some of the colourway options are a bit boring or too loud.  
• Mesh used on the upper can be tricky to clean. Use sneaker wipes to clean. 

FAQs

Discover Nike Related Articles:

• 9 Reasons Why Nike Is The Best Brand?
• Plant-based Comfort: 13 Best Nike Vegan Sneakers
• Nike Air Bubble Popped? 5 Must-Do Things To Fix
• Does The Vapormax Bubble Pop Easily

No, the Vapormax bubble does not pop easily. They can if exposed to a sharp object or the bubble is put under a lot of pressure. They are unlikely to pop from daily use. The rubber used for the air bubble won’t wear down easily. 

I tested the Nike Air Bubble to see if it will pop easily, so you can feel confident wearing your shoes. Perhaps you are thinking about buying the vapormax or already have a pair.

A similar Nike Air Bubble used on the vapormax is also on the Nike Air Max 270. To give you the right answer whether the vapormax bubble pop easily the Nike Air sneakers were worn daily for a week. 

You’ll be happy to know they didn’t pop at all! 

If you’re looking for more ways to save money on sneakers, check out our guide on how to bulk buy sneakers and get the best deals. could you improve the text use active voice ake it enagaing and keep it short

Related Article: Vapormax popped already? Discover the 5 Best Must-Do Things If Your Nike Air Bubble Pops

Why Vapormax Bubble Won’t Pop 

The engineers at Nike designed the VaporMax over 5 years and the air bubble is made in a two-part midsole. They are made of strong Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nitrogen gas fill air units at the heel and front with a durable rubber sole.

During research and development, the vapormax sneaker bubble was tested with over 350 runners. During the tests, they were exposed to different surfaces, temperatures and foot pressure so the bubble won’t pop easily.

The combined distance it took to test the Vapormax sneakers is equal to running around the earth 5 times approximately 124,505 miles (200,375 kilometers) – Discover the best shoes for walking around the earth, complete list.

Benefits of Vapormax bubble (TPU Plastic)

• Won’t wear down easily 
• Flexible
• Long-lasting in all weather conditions
• Strong material
• Resilience to oils, greases and solvents
• Easy to coloring
• Easy to recycle 

So that the vapormax bubble won’t pop easily, machines with ovens heat the plastic film and appear as a complete air bubble midsole. Machines are constantly running, any flawed air bubbles are rejected and recycled. 

The Vapormax Sole Is Tough

The air bubble can’t easily because it never touches the ground. The bubble’s purpose is to provide cushioning and it is wrapped in strong sole plastic. 

As you can see using scissors to try and pop the bubble sole is not easy and requires a lot of effort. 

Workouts With The Vapormax 

Depending on the exercise you’ll be doing the vapormax won’t pop easily even with all the body weight on one shoe. 

Don’t worry even if you are squatting you have nothing to worry about the vapormax is designed to take additional pressure. 

Nike VaporMax FAQs

Is it good to run in VaporMax?

No! Nike designed them runners but sadly wears have suggested they are unstable at times. Also, professional athletes hardly wear Vapormax to run, more of a lifestyle fashion sneaker. 

Can you work out in VaporMax?

You can work out in VaporMax. But there are better trainers that offer cushioning, stability, and ankle support in the Nike Air Zoom range. 

Can you return Nikes if the air bubble pops?

Yes, if the air bubble in your Nike shoes pops (material flaw) contact Nike or return them to authorised retailers. Within 60 days of purchase, you can return to Nike for a full refund. Longer than 60 days and less than two years since the manufacture date contact Nike.

Check out the latest trainer reviews and video content by following @saucedby on Instagram Pinterest or liking our Facebook Page.

You are here for one reason. Why is Nike the best brand? There are 9 unthinkable reasons. 

We all love Nike for different reasons; what’s yours? Mine is that their products make me feel like I can go that extra mile. The price of some of their sneakers makes me shiver sometimes, but once they are locked on my feet, I feel like a pro athlete. 

If you are thinking about whether it’s worth buying new Nike shoes, check out the 17 Reasons Why Nike Is So Expensive – for it to all make sense. 

The reasons why Nike is the best brand are because they inspire customers, innovate unique products that solve problems and they are inclusive there’s something for everyone, not just athletes. Discover the rare reason why Nike Vapormax Bubble won’t pop.

Most importantly their pricing and selection are varied whether you want sneakers for standing all day, on a budget, or a vegan sustainable alternative.  

If you want to save money and get more value for your money, you should consider bulk buying sneakers from trusted sources.

Related Article: Ultimate List of 13 Best Vegan Sustainable Sneakers

1. Inspire 

What sport do you like? Perhaps you don’t play sports and occasionally go to the gym or for a walk. If you have a body you’re an athlete. It’s not about having the latest or best sportswear, just get out there and chase greatness. 

Start walking be the athlete you were born to be – Discover the best walking shoes, ultimate guide.

In Nike’s own words JUST DO IT! 

From first imagining an idea, dreaming about it, designing and even sometimes failing, designers at Nike have one goal; inspire you to find your greatness. Nike inspires through sportswear products that enhance athletic performance, reduce injury and maximise comfort while reducing waste.

The best way to explain is with the 2012 “Find Your Greatness” campaign, if you’ve been thinking about starting a new activity great watch. 

Watch the video here

Key points from the video: 

• Greatness – we’re all capable of it. 
• Greatness is something you try. 
• Greatness is a scary thing until it isn’t.
• Greatness doesn’t need an audience.
• Greatness is not born it’s made.

2. Learn from failures

You may or may not be familiar with basketball, maybe it’s just not your thing but that isn’t relevant to what I’m about to show you. 

Nike tweeted a marketing campaign video for retiring basketball coach Mike Krzyzewski, commonly known as Coach K in the basketball work. Titled “You can’t spell coach without K” 

But the tweets were a little confusing, all the words that were used didn’t have the letter K. 

Words used: 

• Honor 
• Respect 
• Brotherhood
• Gold 
• Cameron 
• Crazies 
• Durham 
• Family 

Sometimes big brands get it wrong too, the effort was appreciated but it just didn’t make sense, the word BASKETBALL literally has K and it was screaming to be used. 

Publicly they never responded to the online jokes so we don’t actually know whether they learned anything. It’s safe to assume they won’t be doing that again, well I hope they don’t for their sake social media is unforgiving. 

3. Culture of Innovation

What does innovation mean? A new method, idea, or product to improve something that already exists. 

Nike Forward is a forward-thinking sustainable apparel innovation that took 5 years to design. 

Nike Forward is ultra-thin lightweight layers of material bonded together using a needle-punching process to form performance apparel. Each layer of material provides performance benefits like warmth, softness, or breathability. Post-industrial and consumer waste including recycled bottles are used turning them into fibres. It is not knitted or woven. 

Nike Forward Benefits 

• Minimises carbon impact 
• Maximises efficiency and speed in the manufacturing process
• No water and dyes are used 
• 70% recycled content by weight 
• Can be brought back into production so there’s no waste 
• Cuts carbon by 75% compared to traditional material
• Overtime takes shape to the body and retains shape 

4. Inclusive

“If you have a body you’re an athlete” (Aaron Heiser, VP Global Apparel Product Merchandising at Nike)

In an effort to solve performance limitations and availability of a traditional hijab in sports and be more inclusive of all athletes. Based on the feedback Nike received, a traditional hijab didn’t work well with some sports uniforms.

Benefits of the Nike Pro Hijab 

• The pull-on design is constructed from durable single-layer Nike Pro cool mesh – breathable fabric. 
• Inspires girls worldwide to follow their passion for sports.
• Suitable hijab for sports that allows athletes not have to explain and defend themselves to officials.
• Lightweight fabric 
• Feels soft on the skin 

Athletes Nike worked with, to put the Nike Pro Hijab to the test in each sport:

• Weightlifter, Amna Al Haddad – United Arab Emirates
• Figure Skater, Zahra Lari –  United Arab Emirates
• Fencer, Ibtihaj Muhammad – New Jersey-native
• Runner, Manal Rostom – Nike Run Club Coach in Dubai
• Boxer, Zeina Nassar – Germany 
• Everyday athletes from around the Middle East

What athletes say about the Nike Pro Hijab  

Ibtihaj Muhammad

“It really sunk in how much my previous hijab was hindering my performance when I tried the Nike Pro Hijab.” 

“The Nike Pro Hijab will help advance the conversation around hijabs and Muslim women in sports and further make sports an inclusive space.” 

Manal Rostom

“It inspires me to reach greater heights and to run farther distances,” Manal completed the New York Marathon wearing the Nike Pro Hijab.”

5. All about kids

In an effort to build more playful sessions into sports for kids. Helping kids learn new skills and love sports. Nike partnered with Leeds Beckett University and ICOACHKIDS to co-create the Coaching Kids: Power of Play Nike Training Club app programme. 

For the Coaches

The program was developed for coaches, PE teachers, parents or caregivers to encourage playful way to coach. Helps coaches remove barriers for all kids to benefit from play and sport.

Features

• 3-week programme 
• At home, in a gym or open space play
• All levels of fitness
• 15 – 30 minute exercises 
• Bodyweight only training 

Modules 

• Let’s Play Ball – Helps kids develop their ability to keep bodies in stable positions during dynamic and static activities. 
• Getting Up To Speed – Develops movement efficiency through coordination and speed – key elements of sports. 
• Going The Extra Mile – Develops kids ability to last longer at their best – increasing tolerance to fatigue through play. 

They can be found on Nike’s Made to Play website.

6. Set the bar high

Nike has set the bar high by adding adaptive training programs to the Nike Training Club app. “Workouts designed in partnership with adaptive training experts to provide lower-body modifications for anyone — disabled or not.” (Nike). Providing training more inclusive for everybody.

Nike (M)ove Like a Mother 

The training program covers strength training, cardio, mobility and yoga through every stage of pregnancy. 

Features

• Advisory board approved by antenatal and postnatal specialists.
• Equipment: Dumbbells, stability ball and block
• 5 – 20 minute workouts 
• A mix of workouts designed to build strength, confidence and mind-body connection. 
• Created for all fitness and energy levels

7. No idea is too small or too big

Launched in Nike Town, B.I.L.L. (Bot-Initiated Longevity Lab) is a robotic system designed to clean and repair customised sneakers to extend the life span of shoes. 

By repairing sneakers at scale, services like BILL will help Nike reach net zero by 2050 target.  Nike Refurbished – in-store offering that restores used Nike footwear. Nike Recycling and Donation – allows athletes to pass on and recycle the products no longer used. 

8. Big impact

1. “78% – Renewable energy in owned or operated facilities in 2021, 48% increase from 2020.” (Nike)
2. “100% – Footwear manufacturing waste diverted from landfill or incineration without energy recovery.” (Nike)
3. “More than 300 organisations supporting the Made to Play commitment and Inclusive Community investments.” (Nike)

9. Take on the toughest challenges

Watershed-restoration projects reduce pesticide runoff, improved soil health, and improve community access to water. 91% of the freshwater Nike uses is connected to materials sourcing and manufacturing.

“Nike water restoration project in collaboration with The Nature Conservancy. In India, 30 hectares of farmland were converted to drip irrigation in the state of Maharashtra, benefiting 75 farmers.” (Nike, 2021)

Textile dyeing and finishing

• Reduce the water used to dye and finish textiles.
• Dyeing and finishing textile uses 22% freshwater, aims to reduce this by 2025.
• Collaborating with suppliers to reduce freshwater use.

If you found the 9 Reasons Why Nike Is The Best Brand article helpful check out the latest trainer reviews and video content by following @saucedby on Instagram Pinterest or liking our Facebook Page.

You landed on this article looking for valid reasons: Why Is Nike So Expensive? There’s a long and short answer. But first, I know it can seem criminal the amount Nike charges for their products; we all want to save money. 

To answer your question accurately, I looked through 300 pages of NIKE reports and emailed them (they didn’t respond this time) but it’s all good.

Short answer: They need to run a profitable business, simple. Plus, they are the Best Sportswear Brand -Here are 9 Unthinkable Reasons Why.

Long answer: Very simply, their goal is to create sportswear products that enhance athletic performance, reduce injury and maximise comfort while reducing waste. This requires a lot of investment into the reasons listed below. 

Related Article: Dunks are extremely popular right now; check out Why Are Nike Dunks So Expensive? (3 Cheaper Options)

If you want to get more value for your money and not buy expensive sneakers, you should also consider bulk buying sneakers from reliable sources online.

17 Reasons Nike Is So Expensive

1. Product Research, Design, and Development

Nike has a competitive advantage in the sportswear segment as its goal is to produce products that help to enhance athletic performance, reduce injury and maximise comfort while reducing waste.

They are seen as a premium brand that is constantly innovating new materials and technology, making its products expensive. 

Product Testing – Athletes with sports marketing contracts and product testers provide feedback on footwear and apparel products throughout the design process. Discover the sneakers took over 5 years to design and test!

Research committees and advisory boards consisting of athletes, coaches, podiatrists, and other specialists consult with Nike to review specific designs, materials, and concepts. This costs money.

Responding to consumer preferences with the introduction of innovations such as Nike Air, Zoom, Free, Flywire, Dri- Fit, Flyknit, Flyweave, FlyEase, ZoomX, Air Max, React, and Adapt technologies. 

Finally Announced – Best Walking Shoes With Insane Nike Innovation Comfort

How much does Nike invest in innovation?

Related Article: Do your trainers sometimes hurt? Here’s a list of the Best Nike Shoes For Wide Feet; start walking in comfort.

2. Limited Edition Collaboration 

Any Quickstrike (limited edition release) Nike Dunk released usually commands a higher price than the general release pair it is inspired by. For example, the Concepts x Nike SB Dunk “White Lobster” which were released exclusively as friends and family pack of the retail store. Usually, such limited models require more creative development, another reason why the Dunk is so expensive. 

The “Viotech” Nike Dunk Low was released in 2001 as a Japan-exclusive Co.Jp and in 2013 and 2019 for the rest of the world at select Nike retailers. They were released for a retail price of $120 but they resell on the StockX marketplace for close to $400. 

3. Marketing 

Nike market it’s brand and products with endorsement contracts, complimentary products, television, digital and print advertising media platforms, brand events, and retail brand presentation.

Recently Nike has invested heavily in digital marketing to meet the increasing digital demand from consumers. Between 2020 and 2021 digital sales accounted for 67% of sales and store sales declined due to reduced footfall because of store closures. Therefore some products had to be increased in price such as the Nike Dunk from $90 to $120 retail price.

Marketing Example 

The Nike Air VaporMax Moc 2 X Acronym 2018 release saw a promotional video featuring Acronym ® founder Errolson Hugh and guest-starring John Mayer (Singer, Songwriter). Such marketing strategy and material require a large upfront initial investment that makes the Vapormax more expensive than other sneakers. 

4. Competition

Nike faces intense competition from adidas, Puma, New Balance, and many other brands in the following areas.

• Product offerings 
• Technologies
• Marketing expenditures 
• Advertising
• Endorsements
• Pricing 
• Costs of production 
• Customer Service 
• Digital commerce platforms 
• Digital services and experiences 
• Social media presence

If they do not anticipate and respond to their competitors, costs may increase, and demand for products may decline. Having to account for all the threats they face from competitors makes Nike products expensive.  

5. Consumer Perception 

Nike products are associated with improving athletic performance, reducing injury, and maximising comfort. The continual innovation of new designs and manufacturing innovations makes Nike products cost more. Consumers are willing to pay higher prices for Nike merchandise as it’s associated with high quality on and off the court.

For example, the VaporMax contains the most air of any Nike Air Max ever produced. When the engineers at Nike were designing the VaporMax it took them 5 years to develop the air bubble two-part midsole. 

The VaporMax range is one of the most expensive sneakers Nike manufactures some pairs retail for $250 (£220) or more.

Negative Perception  

• If Nike fails to introduce technical product innovations, consumer demand could decline.
• Product quality issues could mean they face substantial expenses to fix problems and loss of consumer confidence.
• Actions taken and statements made by endorsers could harm the brand image. 
• Failure to enter into cost-effective endorsements could affect sales and profitability. 

6. Endorsements

Nike products are expensive due to the relationships they have with athletes, sports teams, and leagues, as well as other public figures to develop, evaluate and promote our products, as well as establish product authenticity with consumers. There are often contractual monetary obligations they need to meet for the endorsement of products, some are worth millions of dollars over several years.  

Payments may be higher as some contracts have bonuses for athletic achievements (e.g. winning a trophy) and/or royalties for certain product sales. May be lower if athletic performance declines. 

Athletes – Costs for establishing and retaining sponsorships for athletes increase year on year for Nike. If endorsements with athletes cannot be maintained Nike could lose the visibility with their target audience or on-field authenticity of products. They may need to increase their marketing investments. 

Celebrity – Rapper Drake has an ongoing endorsement deal with Nike under the sub-label NOCTA various basketball merchandise, sneakers and sportswear has been released. 

Esports – “Esports tournament organiser BLAST Premier partnered with Nike for a merchandise project. Co-branded collection that showcased gaming lifestyle.” (EsportsInsider, 2022)

7. Overhead Expenses  

• Salaries and benefit-related expenses
• Research and development costs 
• Bad debt expense 
• Administrative expenses (rent, professional services, meetings, travel, etc)

In 2021 overhead expenses increased by 4%, due to an increase in:

• Strategic technology investments,
• NIKE Direct variable costs, 
• Restructuring-related costs ($255 million)

8. Retail Store

Roughly 1,043 retail stores are leased globally, mainly consisting of Nike Factory Stores. Some store leases expire up to 2043.

9. HQs and Offices

The NIKE World Campus, owned by NIKE and located near Beaverton, Oregon, USA, is a 400-acre site consisting of over 40 buildings, with some leased properties. 

The Nike Hilversum Netherlands headquarters is leased and is the hub for non-U.S. operations. 

In China offices are also leased in Shanghai, China this hub is focused on implementing wholesale, NIKE Direct, and merchandising strategies.

10. Distribution Centres

Some distribution centers are owned by Nike some are leased. 

11. Air Manufacturing Innovation Facilities 

Air Manufacturing Innovation, manufactures cushioning components used in footwear at NIKE-owned and leased facilities in Beaverton, Oregon, Dong Nai Province, Vietnam, and St. Charles, Missouri.

Air Manufacturing Innovation also manufactures and sells small amounts of various other plastic products to other manufacturers.

The research and development that went into designing required 350 runners to test the sneakers. The combined distance it took to test the sneakers is equal to running around the earth 5 times approximately 124,505 miles (200,375 kilometers).

Related Article: Did you know the Nike VaporMax costs £100 ($115) more than the Dunk? Here are 5 Fascinating Reason You Didn’t Know.

12. Manufacturing

Nike is supplied by 191 footwear factories located in 14 countries. All footwear is manufactured outside of the United States by over 15 independent contractors. As well as agreements with manufacturers in Argentina and India, for sales in those countries. 

Sportswear apparel is supplied by 344 apparel factories in 33 countries. The largest apparel factory accounted for 8% of total NIKE Brand apparel production in 2021. Contact factories in Vietnam account for 30% of total NIKE brand apparel production. 

Nike is not entirely in control of the price quoted by suppliers and contractors availability of raw materials fluctuates, causing their products to retail at higher prices. 

13. League Sponsorship

Nike sponsors the official Premier League ball the partnership has been ongoing since 2000 starting with the Nike Geo Merlin ball in 2000/01. 

“Under the deal, Nike provides kit and equipment for the Premier League’s youth development, and international events and supports the Premier League Primary Stars Kit and equipment scheme that benefits schools in the United Kingdom.” (Premier League, 2018)

14. Renewable Investments (Net Zero By 2050) 

Nike is investing profits heavily into meeting the following net carbon zero targets, generally, the cost of renewable energy is more expensive than fossil fuel energy. 

• Converting to environmental raw materials
• Converting factories to renewable energy 
• Coal elimination 
• Air freight reduction
• Renewable electricity 

15. Employee Pay & Benefits 

In 2021, Nike had approximately 73,300 employees worldwide, including retail and part-time employees. Independent contractors and temporary personnel are also used to supplement their workforce.

The cost of such a large and diverse workforce is the main reason Nike products are so expensive as this needs to be accounted for. 

US Employee Population 

• Retail – 48 %
• Air Manufacturing Innovation Facilities – 3.5%
• Distribution Centres –  3.5%
• Corporate – 35% 
• Other – 10%

16. Community Investment 

As part of Nike’s commitment to supporting organisations working to level the playing field and address racial inequality, they are investing a total of $125 million up until 2025. In 2020 $23.4 million and 2021 $36.6 million was invested. 

As a brand it is important they have a positive impact within the community. Such activities help align the brand with positive experiences in consumers’ minds therefore willing to pay more for products they purchase. 

17. Software Development Costs

Computer software purchases and software developed for internal use are often customised for the needs of the business. Software used for manufacturing and design, payroll, and other specific business activities. Often training to use software is needed, as maintenance and other post-use activities.  

Expensive Nike’s FAQs

Where does Nike source its raw materials?

NIKE’s independent contractors and suppliers buy raw materials for the manufacturing of our footwear, apparel, and equipment products. Most raw materials are available and purchased by independent contractors and suppliers in the countries where manufacturing takes place.

“Since 1972, Sojitz Corporation of America (“Sojitz America”), a large Japanese trading company and the sole owner of our redeemable preferred stock, has performed import-export financing services for Nike.” (Nike, 2021) 

What material does Nike use?

Nike Shoes 

• Natural and synthetic rubber 
• Plastic compounds 
• Foam cushioning materials 
• Natural and synthetic leather 
• Nylon 
• Polyester and canvas 
• Polyurethane films are used to make NIKE Air-Sole cushioning components.

Nike Apparel 

• Natural and synthetic fabrics 
• Yarns and threads (virgin and recycled)
• Specialised performance fabrics – Wick moisture away from the body, retain heat, and repel rain
• Plastic and metal hardware

Nike Dunks are expensive due to hype, limited collaboration, and only selected stores stocking them. Demand for Dunks is the most common reason why they are so expensive. 

Reasons we will cover in this article:

• Manufacturing costs.
• Supply and demand.
• Marketing
• Reselling marketplaces

Are you a die-hard Nike Dunk fan, or do you know a sneakerhead who is? 

Discover 27 amazing sneakerhead gifts that will give your Nike Dunks a fresh look, secure storage, and lasting protection. 

From stylish accessories to handy gadgets, it is perfect for any occasion.

Related Article: Discover why Nike Vapormax sneakers are expensive and last long!

Reasons Nike Dunk Is Expensive 

Manufacturing Costs 

Midsole – ​​The midsole is constructed of EVA Zoom Air-cushioned foam and is made exclusively at Nike subcontracted factories worldwide. Nike does not directly control manufacturing plants, so the shoe cost increases slightly. 

General release Dunk “Pandas” are mass-produced economies of scale that allow Nike to lower the cost of production. In the UK, they retail for £80 – £120 ($90 – $140), which is inexpensive but often sells out, causing them to resell for 3x the retail price. 

Nike Patents – According to Insights By GreyB, Nike has 25762 patents globally. Out of 25762 patents, 28755 patents are active. Specific patents related to Nike Dunk designs are active, and managing patents adds to the cost. 

Leather Manufacturing – General release Nike Dunks consist of different grades of synthetic leather coated in polythene plastic (synthetic material) with a fake leather embossed print. This process is costly. Machines are constantly running, with workers rotating shifts to ensure the production line doesn’t stop. 

Related Article: Did you know the Nike VaporMax costs £100 ($115) more than the Dunk? Here are 5 Fascinating Reason You Didn’t Know.

Limited Releases and Collaborations

Any Quickstrike (limited edition release) Nike Dunk released usually commands a higher price than the general release pair inspired by.

For example, the Concepts x Nike SB Dunk “White Lobster” were released exclusively as the retail store’s friend and family pack. Usually, such limited models require more creative development, another reason why the Dunk is so expensive. 

The “Viotech” Nike Dunk Low was released in 2001 as a Japan-exclusive Co.Jp and in 2013 and 2019 for the rest of the world at select Nike retailers. They were released for a retail price of $120, but they resell on the StockX marketplace for close to $400. 

Supply and Demand 

General release Nike Dunks are expensive because only certain retailers with Tier 0 accounts get certain premium sneakers. Nike chooses Tier accounts (retailers). Nike determines the markup, but as they are only in selector stores, demand for such pairs is high, which makes them pricey. 

Similar to a limited edition, collaborations and endorsements pair their scarcity pushes to make them expensive. To meet demand, most retailers like END, Footlocker, and Size?

Rely on raffles to make the process of buying in-demand sneakers fair. Some retailers collaborate with Nike, which are more expensive than general release pairs.

Marketing 

From the various models of Nike Dunk released, the marketing campaigns around the sneaker are centred around the target audience. The promotional video campaign was titled Nike SB “Today Was A Good Day” with professional stake-boarder Paul Rodriguez. Such marketing strategy and material require a significant upfront initial investment, making the Dunk more expensive than other sneakers. 

Resell Marketplaces 

Whether it’s a general release, limited edition, or collaboration model, Nike Dunk commands high resell values due to the hype around the sneakers. The main reason Dunks are so expensive is that sneaker enthusiasts are willing to pay above retail for the sneaker. 

Nike Dunk FAQs

If you found the Why Nike Dunks Are Expensive article helpful, check out the latest trainer reviews and video content by following @saucedby on Instagram and Pinterest or liking our Facebook Page.

The VaporMax range is one of the most expensive sneakers Nike manufactures, some pairs retail for $250 (£220) or more. 

The Nike VaporMax range is based on the Air Max 1 trainers that were first released in 1987 and designed by Tinker Hatfield. The original Air Max was inspired by the Pompidou Center, in Paris, France. 

Rumour has it that the VaporMax contains the most air of any Nike Air Max ever produced. When the engineers at Nike were designing the VaporMax it took them 5 years to develop the air bubble two-part midsole. They are made of Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) nitrogen gas fill air units at the heel and front with a durable rubber sole. 

Related Article: Do your trainers sometimes hurt? Here’s a list of the Best Nike Shoes For Wide Feet; start walking in comfort.

Reasons Nike VaporMax is expensive…

Research and Development

Air Bubble Midsole – ​​”The Air soles are constructed of 75% recycled material and are made exclusively at two Air Manufacturing Innovation Plants located in Beaverton, Oregon, and St. Louis.” (Hypebeast, 2018) Manufacturing plants are dedicated to Nike Air shoes only and the mold for the VaporMax has 39000 different components. 

The research and development that went into designing required 350 runners to test the sneakers. The combined distance it took to test the VaporMax sneakers is equal to running around the earth 5 times approximately 124,505 miles (200,375 kilometers).

Nike Air Patents – According to, Insights By GreyB Nike has a total of 25,762 patents globally. Out of 25,762 patents, 28,755 patents are active. Specific patents related to Nike Air Technology are active, the cost associated with managing patents makes VaporMax trainers expensive. 

Air Bag Development – The Airbag or air pockets are a vital component that goes into Nike sportswear shoes. Custom machines with ovens, heat plastic film into an Airbag and pop out at the other end as a complete piece. Machines are constantly running with production line workers rotating shifts to make sure the production line doesn’t stop. 

Related Article: Did you know the Nike Dunk costs £100 ($115) less than the VaporMax? Here are 5 Fascinating Reason To Save Money.

Limited Releases and Collaborations

Any Quickstrike (limited edition release) VaporMax released usually commands a higher price than the general release pair it is inspired by. For example, the Nike VaporMax OFF-WHITE 2018 was released in two separate black and white colourways for a retail price of $240 (£210). Since being released in March 2018, the Air Vapormx The Ten has sold for an average of $910 (£785) on the StockX resell marketplace. Usually, such limited models require more creative development another reason why the Vapormax is so expensive. 

Related Article: Save some money with these Nike Sneakers That Add Extra Height for a fraction of the price.

Supply and Demand 

General release Nike Vapormax is expensive because only certain retailers with Tier 0 accounts get certain premium sneakers. Tier accounts (retailers) are chosen by Nike. The markup is determined by Nike but as they are only in selected stores demand for such pairs is high which makes them pricey. 

Similar to a limited edition, collaborations and endorsement pairs their scarcity makes them expensive. To meet demand most retailers like END, Footlocker, and Size? rely on raffles to make the process of buying in-demand sneakers fair. 

Marketing 

From the various models of Nike VaporMax released the marketing campaigns around the sneaker are centered around the target audience. The Nike Air VaporMax Moc 2 X Acronym 2018 release saw a promotional video featuring Acronym ® founder Errolson Hugh and guest-starring John Mayer (Singer, Songwriter). Such marketing strategies and materials require a large upfront initial investment that adds to the Nike Vapormax cost.

Resell Marketplaces 

Whether it’s a general release, limited edition, or collaboration model Nike VaporMax command high resell price due to the hype around the sneakers. A reason Nike VaporMax are so expensive is that sneaker enthusiast are willing to pay above retail for them.

Cheaper Nike VaporMax Alternatives

Related Article: Check out other cheaper Nike trainers that are eco-friendly (vegan).

Less than £200 ($230)

Not feeling to spend $250 (£220) or more on VaporMax, below are Nike Air Max trainers you can pick for a fraction of the price. You’ll even have change leftover. 

• Nike Air Max 1
• Nike Air Max 95
• Nike Air Max 97

Less than £100 ($115)

• Nike Dunk Low
• Nike Blazer Low Jumbo
• Nike Waffle One

Nike VaporMax Models List

1. VaporMax 360 
2. VaporMax 97
3. VaporMax 95
4. VaporMax 360
5. VaporMax Plus
6. VaporMax MOC
7. VaporMax MOC 2
8. VaporMax 2019
9. VaporMax 2019 Utility
10. VaporMax Gliese
11. VaporMax FK2020
12. VaporMax CPFM WMNS VM 2019
13. VaporMax Light 2
14. VaporMax 2021 FK

Nike VaporMax FAQs

Is it good to run in VaporMax?

No! Nike designed them runners but sadly wears have suggested they are unstable at times. Also, professional athletes hardly wear Vapormax to run, more of a lifestyle fashion sneaker. 

Can you work out in VaporMax?

You can work out in VaporMax. But there are better trainers that offer cushioning, stability, and ankle support in the Nike Air Zoom range. 

Can you return Nikes of the air bubble pops?

Yes, if the air bubble in your Nike shoes pops (material flaw) contact Nike or return them to authorised retailers. Within 60 days of purchase, you can return to Nike for a full refund. Longer than 60 days and less than two years since the manufacture date contact Nike.

Nike shoes for wide feet are sometimes hard to shop for, as they’re not always clearly labeled. we’ve put a list together for you. 

Journal of Foot and Ankle Research, suggests that 68% of us wear incorrectly fitted shoes based on length, width, and depth. Are you part of this statistic?  

There is a strong link between incorrectly fitted shoes and some forms of foot pain or foot disorder. Go for comfort rather than styling.

Nike Shoes For Wide Feet

I did my own research to help you, by measuring Nike shoe width using a precision digital caliper to determine which ones are the best for wide feet. Discover the Top Nike shoes that add height!

All the Nike shoes measured are 3.60 inches or more in width in the toe box; roughly the size of your biggest finger.

What to look out for:

• Flexible upper material
• Wider insoles

Nike Downshifter 12

Air Max 95

VaporMax 2021 Flyknit  

Air 270

Nike Crater Impact

React Vision

Nike Waffle One

Nike Pegasus 83

Nike Air Force 1 

Find this in-depth article for How Does The Low Nike Air Force 1 Fit?

Get Your Feet Measured

Forefoot width is the measurement of the widest part of the front part of the foot in the toe box area of a shoe end to end. This is usually done using a precision measuring instrument such as a Brannock Device. Most footwear shops have this equipment you can request to have your feet measured. 

Finding shoes for wide feet can be hard. If you size down they will be too tight in the toe box area which will be uncomfortable and if you size up they might fit well at the front but what you’ll find is there is too much heel slippage. 

How Wide Feet Are Measured 

There is no standard width system used by manufacturers to letter the fit of narrow, medium, and wide shoes, the best way to get an accurate measurement is to measure your feet using the Brannock Device or try the shoes on.

How To Measure Shoe Width Yourself

What you need: A piece of paper or card larger than your foot, a pen or pencil, and a measuring device (ruler or tape measure).  

Shoe width is calculated over the ball of your feet. The circumference of the foot is measured at its widest point.

How To Make Sure Shoes Fit

1. Measure the width of both your feet.

Measuring both of your feet will allow you to determine if there is a difference for both feet. If there is a difference in foot width always take the highest measurement. 

2. Check the Nike foot width chart.

Nike chart below measures foot width for Nike shoes and estimate how wide your feet are. 

Men’s Nike Shoe Width Chart

Women’s Nike Shoe Width Chart

Sometimes you might see charts with width lettering this is not fully standarised each brand has its own system, don’t rely on this too much it’s confusing. 

3. Test different shoes to see which offers the most comfort.

Assuming that you bought the shoes online test try them out on a clean surface e.g. carpet to see how they feel. 

Nike Shoes For Wide Feet FAQs

Should I size up if I have wide feet?

No, not every shoe is going to fit you perfectly, or at least the way you want it to fit. We suggest finding the shoes that fit you right rather than sizing up or down. Sizing up may cause heel slippage. 

Do you go down a size in wide fit shoes?

No, if you have flat or wide feet use your own judgment based on how a shoe feels on your feet to see how they fit. Sizing down could make them feel painful. 

If you found the Nike Shoes For Wide Feet guide useful make sure to check out the latest trainer reviews on Youtube and follow the social accounts @saucedby on Instagram and Pinterest or by liking our Facebook Page.

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