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Technology in sneakers has evolved greatly over the years. Since the early 1970s, Nike Basketball has worked feverishly to be a leader in innovation. The upper of a sneaker is the foundation for both performance and aesthetic. Check out an inside look at how uppers have evolved, from the leather and suede of the?Nike Blazer?to the engineered mesh of?Nike Kobe 8 System, in the last 40 years.
1970s
Nike BlazerIn 1972, Nike sewed an oversized Swoosh logo on the sides of the all leather Nike Blazer. By 1973, the upper had already changed to suede to stay in line with the practical ideals of the time. The sensible designs of the time created time-honored classics, such as the Blazer and Nike Bruin.
