2003 Nike Waffle Trainer Sport Red/Met Silver

Condition: Never worn, have some signs of aging from storage. Comes with OG box. 

Size: 9M

Release Year: 2003

One of the most iconic sneakers in Nike's vast history, the Waffle Trainer holds its plate as a groundbreaking innovation in running footwear. Bill Bowerman, founder of Blue Ribbon Sports was constantly working to change and redefine the status quo of his running equipment. His breakthrough moment was the Waffle Trainer, in which he experimented with a waffle iron to produce the sole. The shoe successfully launched in 1973, one year after Blue Ribbon Sports transitioned to Nike. Previously, many track and field soles were flat and low to the ground, but the waffle-inspired sole had small ridges that provided extra support and rebound. This was the first major innovation from Nike. It helped spread the idea that not only the midsole but also the outsole can absorb shock.

The Waffle Trainer varies from the Waffle Racer which later released in 1977 with tech updates that saw the waffle sole wrap around the sides into the midsole for a more dynamic approach. Both models have received complete revamps in recent years thanks to collaborations from Off-White, Sacai, Clot, and CDG.

This classic pair from 03 is far less bold, but still sure to break necks. The defining characteristic of this specific pair is a smooth leather silver swoosh that cuts right through nylon red side panels. The mixture of nylon (tongue, side panels) and suede (toe, eyelets, heel) on the uppers creates a simple yet prominent contrast.