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Shark Week is back and bigger than ever. The wildly popular annual mini-series on the Discovery Channel kicked off its 2014 run last night, feeding shark fans their footage and reminding everyone what’s out there in the deep blue sea. Sharks have clearly separated themselves as one of the wonders of the world, and their power has even trickled over into sneakers. As some of the most distinguished animals on the planet, the keepers of the ocean have inspired different styles of shoes from multiple makes and models. From their teeth to their strength, sharks have consistently been incorporated various signatures, collaborations, and customs.
Swim through the following pages to see 10 of the best shark-inspired sneakers from an array of brands. Tell us which is your favorite individual in the comment section at the end, and keep navigating to Nice Kicks for everything sneakers.
Sneaker Freaker x PUMA Blaze of Glory “Sharkbait”
Model: Sneaker Freaker x PUMA Blaze of Glory “Sharkbait”
Year: 2013
This Sneaker Freaker collaboration with PUMA drew direct inspiration from their seaside companions. Based in Australia, this time SF utilized a turquoise upper with a gold shark tooth hang jewel.
Nike Zoom Kobe VII “Shark”
Model: Nike Zoom Kobe VII “Shark”
Year: 2012
Arguably the most notable shark-inspired sneaker came from Kobe Bryant‘s camp, as his seventh signature sneaker continued its animal series with this smooth blue style code. With an upper that features an ocean ripple effect, this Black Mamba makeup is finished off with direct representation in the form of a shark silhouette on the back heels.
Nike Zoom Hyperflight PRM “Shark”
Model: Nike Zoom Hyperflight PRM “Shark”
Year: 2013
Teamed up with “Tiger” and “Lion” renditions, this “Shark” take on the premium Nike Zoom Hyperflight gave the animal pack some motion from the ocean. Fading from blue to grey, the upper is designed to look slick like a shark’s smooth exterior.
Bathing Ape Asta “1st Camo Shark”
Model: Bathing Ape Asta “1st Camo Shark”
Year: 2014
A Bathing Ape recently combined their staple camouflage aesthetic with inspiration from the World War II fighter jets, which famously featured a shark face graphic.
Nike Air Foamposite One “Great White” Custom
Model: Nike Zoom Hyperflight PRM “Shark”
Year: 2013
Although a custom creation, this Nike Air Foamposite One directly embodies its shark inspiration. Much like the premium Hyperflight release, the sleek transition from blue to grey represents the animal’s smooth skin.
adidas ZX 500 “Shark”
Model: adidas ZX 500 “Shark”
Year: 2014
Offering a more playful take on the often-feared animal, this adidas ZX 500 “Shark” is set in random grey, royal, and red tones. With the jaws from a shark painted onto the midsole, this animalistic design is finished off with two different sets of eyes on the laces and is actually still available at Kinetics.
Reebok ZigTech Shark
Model: Reebok ZigTech Shark
Year: 2012
In 2012, Reebok took their notable ZigTech cushioning technology and trimmed it down into a Shark silhouette. With an already rigged design, the ZigTech grooves can easily portray a set of jaws.
Nike Zoom Sharkley
Model: Nike Zoom Sharkley
Year: 2008
Release in 2008 as a part of Nike Basketball’s “Remix” series, the Nike Zoom Sharkley was a hit on NCAA and NBA courts alike. Combining Rodman’s Ndestrukt, Barkley’s ’94, and the often overlooked Limelight, this model was as strong as its name and inspiration.
Nike Zoom Sharkalaid
Model: Nike Zoom Sharkalaid
Year: 2009
Following up the Sharkley from 2008 was the Nike Zoom Sharkalaid in 2009. Continuing the combination of notable elements from previous Nike Basketball designs, this model once again showed strength like its title.
Nike Air Shark Trainer “Camo”
Model: Nike Air Shark Trainer “Camo”
Year: 2013
Easily the most overlooked silhouette on this list of shark-inspired sneakers is the Nike Air Shark Trainer, a rugged high-top that made a limited release in only a few colorways.
Air Jordan 5
Model: Air Jordan 5
Year: 1990
As a bonus to the previous 10 Shark-Inspired Sneakers, the Air Jordan 5 didn’t draw direct influence from the powerful animal. Michael Jordan’s fifth signature sneaker was designed with the aerodynamics of a World War II fighter jet. Those planes often famously included shark face graphics, which featured prominent teeth, which were incorporated into the Air Jordan 5 on its iconic midsole.
