Nike Air Force 1 vs. New Balance 550s vs. Adidas Superstar: Let’s Compare

When it comes to men’s sneakers, three legends always come up in the conversation: Nike Air Force 1, New Balance 550, and Adidas Superstar. They have evolved over the years and are still on the most wanted list for sneaker enthusiasts everywhere. So if you’re wondering which one to get or add to your collection, keep reading to see how they compare.

The History Behind These Sneaker Icons

Nike Air Force 1

The Nike Air Force 1 was launched in 1982 as a basketball shoe. It was the first Nike sneaker to feature Air cushioning and became popular by the late ‘90s and early 2000s as a streetwear staple. 

New Balance 550

Originally launched in 1989, the New Balance 550 was designed as a basketball sneaker, but it wasn’t until 2020 that the 550s became one of the hottest men’s sneakers on the market. People loved their vintage athletic wear look and chunky, low-top design.

Adidas Superstar

Launched in 1969 as a low-top basketball shoe, it quickly became famous for its shell-toe design, which added durability and protection. In the ‘80s, the sneaker jumped from the court to the streets, thanks to hip-hop icons Run-D.M.C’s song “My Adidas”.

Design Breakdown: How These Sneakers Stack Up

Nike Air Force 1

• Silhouette: The Air Force 1 has a clean look that works with almost any outfit. It comes in low, mid, and high-top versions, but the low-cut style is the most popular.
• Material: The classic models come with smooth leather uppers. But some drops include other premium materials such as suede and canvas.
• Sole: A chunky rubber sole with Nike’s Air cushioning gives it that slightly elevated feel while keeping it comfortable.
• Details: holes on the toe box for breathability, a thick padded collar for ankle support, and the signature Swoosh on the sides.
• Best for: An everyday sneaker that works as streetwear or a semi casual outfit.

New Balance 550

• Silhouette: A bulkier, low-top design inspired by ‘80s basketball sneakers. It’s got a slightly boxy shape if you're into that particular fashion look. 
• Material: Depending on the colorway, this shoe comes with leather, suede, or mesh.
• Sole: A thick rubber outsole with a solid grip but no fancy cushioning like Nike’s Air tech.
• Details: The signature “N” logo on the side, vintage overlays, and a slightly raised midsole.
• Best for: A throwback sneaker that pairs well with athletic wear, baggy jeans, and vintage fits.

Adidas Superstar

• Silhouette: Low-top and slim, with a slightly tapered shape that hugs the foot more than the other two.
• Material: Premium leather uppers with a smooth, clean finish. Some versions use suede or canvas, but the leather edition is the most iconic.
• Sole: A flat rubber outsole with a textured grip, keeping the look minimal and classic.
• Details: The famous shell-toe design (for extra durability and style), three Adidas stripes on the side, and the classic Trefoil logo on the heel.
• Best for: The simple design works with casual wear, everyday wear clothing and sport casual looks. They have a tight fit, so you might want to go up a half size. 

Comfort & Performance: Which Sneaker Feels the Best?

A sneaker can look fire, but if it’s uncomfortable, it’s not worth it. Let’s see how the Nike Air Force 1, New Balance 550, and Adidas Superstar stack up.

Cushioning & Support

• Nike Air Force 1: The Air sole unit gives these shoes a solid cushioning. You also get extra ankle support through the padded collar.
• New Balance 550s: These don’t have the fancy tech like Nike’s Air cushioning, but they still offer decent comfort. The thick rubber sole gives some bounce, but they’re more about structure than softness.
• Adidas Superstar: With no real cushioning tech, we think they are the least comfortable of the set. If you need extra support for long walks, they might not be your best bet.
• Winner: Nike Air Force 1. Air cushioning, need we say more?

Fit & Sizing

• Nike Air Force 1: Runs a little big, so most people go half a size down for a snug fit.
• New Balance 550: True to size, but they have a slightly stiff feel at first. You might need a break-in period.
• Adidas Superstar: They have a slightly narrow fit. If you have a wider foot, you might need to go up half a size.
• Winner: Depends on your foot shape. AF1s can feel roomy, while Superstars might be tight if you have wider feet. 

Breathability

• Nike Air Force 1: Leather upper with perforations on the toe box, but they’re still not the most breathable sneaker out there.
• New Balance 550: Some versions come with mesh panels, which help, but the layered leather design means they can still feel warm.
• Adidas Superstar: Full leather upper with no real ventilation, so they’re the least breathable of the three.
• Winner: New Balance 550. If you get a pair with mesh panels, they’ll keep your feet cooler.

Durability

• Nike Air Force 1: Built to last, especially in all-leather versions. The sole is thick, so they don’t wear down quickly.
• New Balance 550: Sturdy, but because they have more panels and stitching, they might show wear faster.
• Adidas Superstar: Super durable. The shell toe is basically indestructible, and the leather holds up well.
• Winner: Adidas Superstar. That shell toe can take a beating.

Overall: It's all about your personal preference. These are all great looking, high performing shoes that offer wonderful versatility. Check out our online store or visit us at the Town Center at Aurora mall to grab your pair. They sell out fast!