Nike needs no introduction. The biggest clothing company in the world made its name putting athletics first, but the brand’s impact in the fashion arena extends far beyond its reputation for record-breaking performance gear. From near-singlehandedly birthing modern sneaker culture to highfalutin collabs with the likes of Louis Vuitton, Nike’s evolved into a bona fashion fide force. So if you don’t already have a Swoosh somewhere in your closet (that seems a little improbable, but we’ll take your word for it), now’s the time to rectify your mistake. Maybe you’re shopping for the friendly Nike fiend in your life. Or maybe it’s been a minute since you last perused the brand’s wares, and you aren’t sure what’s still good. (Hint: a lot of it.) Either way, the next time you find yourself in the mall—or, uh, on the internet—with time to kill and a paycheck to spend, circle back here before pulling out your credit card. These categories are what the Swoosh does best, and if you’re trying to shop its selection like you scored a lifetime endorsement deal, this is the only place to start.
Athletic Shoes
Nike excels at making sportswear—it’s kind of the company’s whole schtick, really. But out of all the moisture-wicking, PR-raising gear the Swoosh pumps out, its range of athletic shoes is still its raison d’etre. We’re talking about sneakers that’ll help you sink three-pointers from half-court or bank a tricky putt on the golf course. Shoes that’ll help you make serious gains in the gym or run a marathon in less time than it takes to catch up on Stranger Things. Whatever feats of athleticism you dream about accomplishing, Nike’s got the kicks to make them a reality.
Lifestyle Shoes
Sneaker culture wouldn’t be what it is today without Nike (especially after the brand signed a little-known hooper named Michael Jordan way back in 1984). Over the years, Nike’s roster of chart-topping shoes—and athletes—has only gotten bigger and better. Today, you’re just as likely to find a pair on the feet of the cool-guys sitting front row at fashion week as you are on the runways they’re ogling. Which means even when you’re not trying to break a sweat, you’ll want a pair in your rotation.
Underwear
If you need a new pair of undies, Nike’s a great place to start. All that knowledge the brand’s accrued cooking up best in class sportswear also prepared it to protect the most precious (and funkiest) parts of your body, whether you need skivvies that wick away moisture, bolster your range of motion, or merely keep everything in place—and look pretty great too, when the time comes to show them off.
Outerwear
Nike’s selection of outerwear is just as good as its range of undies. Think wind-blocking track jackets, super-insulated down parkas, sleek waterproof anoraks, and more. Trust us: the elements have nothing on what the Swoosh has to offer.
Sweats
There are other, more storied names in the sweats game (Champion, Russell, etc.), but Nike’s selection is jam-packed with primo hoodies, crewnecks, joggers, and more, many of them made from familiar fabrics like cotton jersey and French terry—and the rest crafted from the type of modern performance fabrics the brand is famous for. Either way, its slate of sweats just might make you want to ditch those time-tested standbys for good.
Shorts
If you’re itching to show off some thigh, Nike’s got a pair of shorts for you. Getting after it at the gym? Preparing to take on a grueling trail? A pair of shorts with a Swoosh on it is a sure sign you’re about to smash a new record—stylistic and otherwise.
Nike ACG
All Conditions Gear (or ACG) launched in the late ‘80s with a focus on catering to the booming mountain climbing sector. Naturally, its first product was a set of lightweight, functional boots done up in peppy, vivid colors, immediately setting the line apart from the rest of the outdoor sports competition. Since then, the label has amassed a scarily loyal following, who flock to the Swoosh in droves to scoop up all manner of ACG-branded outdoors-y gear. We’re pretty sure people do actually wear the line for its intended purpose, but if you haven’t gotten spelunking since, well, ever, there’s plenty to appreciate too.
