What is the most expensive nike shoe

The most devoted "sneakerheads" will wait in long lines and shell out huge sums to land their most coveted footwear.

So it's no surprise that a ranking of the most valuable sneaker investments from discount code website DealA found some pairs of iconic Nike kicks on reselling site StockX fetching as much as a nearly 150,000% premium over their original retail prices.

At the top of the list – organized by how much more expensive the shoes are now than their original retail price – is the Nike Dunk SB Low Paris, a limited-edition version of a Nike basketball sneaker first unveiled in 2003. Roughly 200 pairs were ever produced, and each pair features cutouts from art by late French expressionist painter Bernard Buffet.

No two pairs of the sneakers are the same, and they sold out immediately upon their release nearly two decades ago. Last year, a pair sold for more than $130,000 in the U.K., according to HypeBeast.

The sneakers originally retailed for $60. The lowest asking price DealA found offered by resellers on StockX was $89,691. That's a return on investment of 149,385%, for anyone lucky enough to snag one at retail price.

Here are the five sneakers with the highest return on investment on StockX, according to DealA:

  1. Nike Dunk SB Low Paris: 149,385% premium over original retail price
  2. 1985 Jordan 1 OG Bred: 145,554% premium
  3. Nike SB Dunk Low London: 41,400% premium
  4. Nike SB Dunk Low Tokyo: 38,925% premium
  5. 1985 Jordan 1 OG Chicago: 22,224% premium

Coming in second is the 1985 Jordan 1 OG Bred sneakers, which the website describes as "possibly the holy-grail to sneakerheads." The black-and-red shoes were part of the first product line from Michael Jordan's multi-decade partnership with Nike.

On StockX, DealA found that the lowest asking price for the classic sneakers – which originally retailed for $65 – was $94,675, representing a premium of 145,554% over the original price. Some pairs of the original Jordans are even more valuable: In 2020, a game-worn pair of the sneakers, autographed by Jordan himself, sold for $560,000 at auction.

The rankings are dominated by Nike sneakers, which reflects the Beaverton, Oregon-based company's close connection to basketball. Nike and its Air Jordan label helped fuel the rise of sneakerhead culture to such a degree that DealA's rankings don't feature another brand until the 34th spot on the list.

That spot belongs to the ASICS Gel-Lyte III Ronnie Fieg Salmon Toe sneakers. Launched in 2011, the ASICS sneakers were the first shoes released in partnership with popular streetwear brand KITH.

As with any highly coveted and appreciable asset, the trick is to get in on the ground floor. If you landed a pair of original Nike Jordans for $65 in 1985 and kept them in excellent condition for a few decades, you're in great shape today.

That takes a level of luck and foresight that not every devout collector can possess.

Certain pairs of particularly rare sneakers have also been known to fetch truly eye-popping amounts of money. For instance, in 2021, Sotheby's sold a pair of Nike Air Ships, the first pair of sneakers Michael Jordan wore in the NBA during his 1985 rookie season, for $1.47 million. That same year, Sotheby's sold a prototype pair of Nike Air Yeezys – worn by rapper Kanye West to the 2008 Grammy Awards – for $1.8 million.

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If you like your sneakers, then you’re going to love this list.

There are lots of reasons to love sneakers. They’re comfortable, they’re stylish, and they’re functional. But for some people, sneakers are more than just a casual shoe. They’re a source of pride, a sign of status, and a collector’s item. Just like any other collector’s item, there are some sneakers that are worth more money than others.

Here is a list of 20 of the most expensive sneakers ever made.

The 20 Most Expensive Sneakers Ever Made?

The list of sneakers and figures mentioned below have been compiled from various sources around the web, such as List25,  Sneaker Freaker & Fashion Beans.

These are the 20 most expensive sneakers ever made:

20. Air Jordan III OG – $4,500

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Kicking off our list of the most expensive sneakers ever, are the Air Jordan III OG’s. And although they are not the most expensive jordans compared to some of the ones we have on this list, they definitely are not cheap.

The sneakers are a part of the celebrity series because basketball legend Michael Jordan wore them when slam dunking Dominque Wilkins, which made the sneakers become even more valuable.

The Air Jordan III OG’s may be expensive but they have a sleek design that is sure to turn heads.

19. Nike Foamposite One “Sole Collector” – $6,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Developed in 1997, The Nike Foamposite One “Sole Collector” was a totally unique design for its time.

Its individual colorway and popularity amongst ballplayers fueled its sales and meant that it sold out fast.

The Foamposite is still a super popular shoe, and new colors are continuously being released. However, the older styles are the ones that get the most attention.

18. Nike Dunk Low Pro SB Pigeon – $6,250

What is the most expensive nike shoe

These fairly normal looking shoes created a riot when they were released in 2005, due to their limited numbers. Only 150 pairs were made, and they were only available in one store in New York. They were also signed by the designer, Jeff Staple, which made them even more valuable.

Over time, they became more and more popular, and the price began to reflect their exclusivity.

$6,000 seems like a great deal when compared to the rest of the shoes on our list of most expensive shoes ever made. So, if you can afford a pair of these kicks, you can at least brag about owning an autographed pair of sneakers.

17. Nike Yeezy 2 Red October – $7,500

What is the most expensive nike shoe

If you like a bit of color on your sneakers, then these Yeezy’s could be for you.

Symbolizing the end of Kanye West’s collaboration with Nike, the Nike Yeezy 2 “Red Octobers” were a big hit, and Kanye promoted them everywhere he went.

Not the most versatile of colorways, but when worn correctly, they’ll certainly raise a few heads. 

16. Vlone x Nike Air Force 1 High – $8000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Are high-tops your thing? Then the Vlone Nike Air Force 1 High could work well for you.

It was the predecessor to the original low-cut version and only 20 pairs were made, which were all sold at an auction in Paris. The unique sneaker is made from Forces’ classic white leather upper and red swoosh with a blue heel logo. It also has ‘Vlone’ written on the toe box in gold lettering – because what else would you expect?

If you ever manage to come across a pair of these, be sure to hold on to them as their currently worth around $8,000.

15. Adidas NMD_R1 Friends and Family – $10,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

The only pair of Adidas sneakers included in our list of the most expensive sneaker ever made are the NMD_R1 Friends and Family.

This style of shoe is only for a certain type of person, but it is a decent looking shoe.

Having said that, the NMD has been undeniably successful, selling out of colorway after colorway.

14. Nike Air Mag Back to the Future – $14,500

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Literally looking like something from the future, the Air Mags were inspired by the Nike sneakers in the film, Back to the Future 2.

They’re pretty rare and last sold at auction for $14,500.

To rock a pair of these, you’re going to have to have some series street cred and a solid reputation in the style game.

13. Air Jordan 4 Undefeated – $15,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

The Air Jordan 4 Undefeated sold for $15,000 on eBay because the owner claimed they were made from ballistic material.

A little unusual to say the least, however, it’s not surprising as Air Jordans frequently sell for crazy prices, as you’ll see in our top ten.

Collectors love a good pair of Jordans 4s, so most enthusiasts will pay whatever it takes to secure a unique pair.

12. Air Jordan 10 OVO – $20,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Jordans are super popular in the sneaker world. They look great, are comfortable to wear, and are synonymous with the famous basketball player, Michael Jordon.

Now, fans are known to do crazy things when it comes to sports, but one basketball fan was lucky enough to be gifted a pair of Air Jordan 10 OVO’s, and then sold them online for $20,000!

Probably subject to tax, but still a great result.

11. Macklemore x Air Jordan 6 – $25,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Another rapper shoe collab, this time by Macklemore, is the Macklemore Air Jordan 6.

If you’ve only got $20,000 then you might want to look elsewhere, as these bad boys command a hefty $25,000.

Talking about frugality and creating your own style, in his song Thrift Shop, it’s kind of hard to see Macklemore walking the walk now that he’s created a $25,000 shoe!

However, they’ve still made their way onto our list of the most expensive sneakers ever made.

10. DJ Khaled x Air Jordan 3 ‘Grateful’ – $25,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Whether you love him or hate him, DJ Khaled’s Air Jordan 3 Grateful’s are just dope!

We don’t need to tell you that you’re going to need some incredibly deep pockets if you want to bag yourself a pair of these.

Only a few months after release, the striking red sneakers were retailing for $16,000 and $25,000!

9. Eminem x Carhartt Air Jordan 4 – $30,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Like most artists, Eminem loves his sneakers.

He’s created a few nice limited edition collaborations before, so when he was invited to collab with Carhartt, things were about to get real. 

They only made 10 pairs in total and were one of the first shoes ever to be directly sold through eBay.

All the proceeds went to Michigan State University’s music school.

Altogether, sneaker-heads spent over $227,000 on the 10 pairs!
 

8. Air Jordan 2 OG – $31,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Yet another Air Jordan on the list, the 2 OG is a coveted part of sneaker history, which is why it can command such a high price. It definitely is one of the most expensive jordans on this list.

Not the most good looking of shoes it has to be said, but nonetheless, you can rock this shoe with a ton of different outfits and look fresh all day long.

$31,000 and these Air Jordans are yours.

7. Air Jordan 11 ‘Jeter’ – $40,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

To commemorate Derek Jetter’s retirement in 2017, the Jordan Brand released five pairs of navy velvet Air Jordan 11s, in a pop-up shop auction near Yankee Stadium.

The sneakers have the famed number “2” on the heel in white, which compliments the navy suede surround.

But it would probably be best to forget about ever owning a pair of these, as three of the five pairs are locked up in US consignment stores, and the remaining two pairs would cost a small fortune – that’s even if the owner would sell!

6. Diamond Encrusted Air Force 1 – $50,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

If you have expensive taste, and like diamonds, then you’re going to love Big Boi‘s Diamond Encrusted Air Force 1’s.

Not the rarest of shoes in the world, nor worn by any major ballers, instead, these shoes are covered in champagne diamonds, which is why they cost $50,000.

Wearing a pair of shoes like this might attract the wrong kind of attention, which is why Big Boi auctioned off his kicks to raise money for his Foundation.

5. Air Jordan 12 OVO (Drake Edition) – $100,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

The Air Jordan 12 OVO has always been a popular shoe, however, the Drake edition blew the doors off its hinges, selling for $100,000 on eBay.

Popular with a lot of sports stars, rappers, and major celebrities, the Drake edition OVO’s are only really attainable to the rich and famous.

$100,000 makes this one of the most expensive Air Jordan sneakers ever made.

4. Air Jordan 12 (Flu Game) – $104,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Not quite in the top three, but pretty close, are the Air Jordan 12 Flu Games.

Once mentioned as the most expensive Jordans in the world; the price really derives from the fact that Michael Jordan wore the sneakers in the infamous “Flu Game,” – a game which he played while having the flu.

Selling for $104,000, these are also one of the rarest shoes on the planet!

3. Buscemi 100 MM Diamond – $132,000

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Coming in at number three on our list of the most expensive sneakers ever made are the Buscemi 100 MM Diamonds.

Loaded with 11.5 carats of diamonds and set in 18-karat gold, these shoes aren’t for the faint-hearted.

Even some sneaker collectors will find themselves out of the loop here as the price tag of $132,000 is certainly steep.

But if you’re looking for a fresh pair of white kicks, and fancy something totally unique, and you’re ready to cough up $132,000 and they’re yours.

2. Michael Jordan’s Game Worn Converse Fastbreak – $190,373

What is the most expensive nike shoe

Arguably the most expensive game-worn sneakers ever, Michael Jordans Converse Fastbreaks sold for $190,000.

In 1984, team USA won gold at the Olympics in Los Angeles. Decades later, a pair of Converse Fastbreaks signed by Michael Jordan came up for auction.

Originally only expected to reach $100,000, the auction far surpassed every sneaker-heads imagination!

Who’d of thought a pair of converse could be worth $190,000!

1. Solid Gold OVO x Air Jordans – $2 Million 

What is the most expensive nike shoe

It’s a bit of a steep jump from second to first position, but if you’re thinking of spending $100,000 on a pair of sneakers anyway, then you may as well go one better.

There had to be a day when a pair of sneakers were coated in 24k gold, and that day finally came when Drake collabed with Nike to make the Solid Gold OVO x Air Jordan.

They were created by American artist Matthew Senna and each shoe weighs 50lbs. These are by far the most expensive Air Jordans ever. So if you have a loose $2million lying around and want to make a serious style statement, these are the kicks for you.

Summary

We hope you enjoyed our list of the 20 most expensive sneakers ever made.

We would probably buy every single pair on the list if we could, but we might just have to settle for one or two pairs!

Here’s a quick recap of the 20 most expensive sneakers ever made:

  1. Solid Gold OVO x Air Jordans – $2 Million
  2. Michael Jordan’s Game Worn Converse Fastbreak – $190,373
  3. Buscemi 100 MM Diamond – $132,000
  4. Air Jordan 12 (Flu Game) – $104,000
  5. Air Jordan 12 OVO (Drake Edition) – $100,000
  6. Diamond Encrusted Air Force 1 – $50,000
  7. Air Jordan 11 ‘Jeter’ – $40,000
  8. Air Jordan 2 OG – $31,000
  9. Eminem x Carhartt Air Jordan 4 – $30,000
  10. DJ Khaled x Air Jordan 3 ‘Grateful’ – $25,000
  11. Macklemore x Air Jordan 6 – $25,000
  12. Air Jordan 10 OVO – $20,000
  13. Air Jordan 4 Undefeated – $15,000
  14. Nike Air Mag Back to the Future – $14,500
  15. Adidas NMD_R1 Friends and Family – $10,000
  16. Vlone x Nike Air Force 1 High – $8000
  17. Nike Yeezy 2 Red October – $7,500
  18. Nike Dunk Low Pro SB Pigeon – $6,250
  19. Nike Foamposite One “Sole Collector” – $6,000
  20. Air Jordan III OG – $4,500

What’s your favourite most expensive pair of sneakers? Leave a comment below.