Nike Basketball 1992-2012 – Air Max2 CB (1994)

We’ve profiled the Air Flight Huarache, Air Force 180 Low and Air Raid as part of Nike‘s “20 Designs that Changed the Game” retrospective, spanning the brand’s most iconic basketball sneakers from 1992 to 2012. This latest installment shines the spotlight on Charles Barkley’s first signature shoe, 1994′s Nike Air Max2 CB. Sir Charles didn’t provide direct input to designer Tracy Teague, but Barkley’s style of play — and his outsized personality — provided all the cues the design team would need. They included the need for a lockdown fit, provided by straitjacket-inspired support straps, reinforced lace locks and teeth-like outriggers. A Max Air unit at the heel, meanwhile, supplied next-level cushioning. The Nike Air Max2 CB is summarized by Tinker Hatfield thusly: “The outlandishness of Charles’ persona and the beauty of the product married up.”