Nike Waffle Shoe Memorabilia and Famous Athlete Pre Fontaine

The Nike waffle sole, designed by Bill Bowerman in the early 1970s, marked a revolutionary moment in the world of athletic footwear. This innovation not only transformed running shoes but also set the stage for Nike’s meteoric rise to prominence in the sports footwear industry. Over the years, this shoe has become more than just a running shoe; it’s a symbol of athletic excellence and a collector’s dream. In this article, we delve into the world of Nike waffle shoe memorabilia, revealing the price tags associated with these iconic pieces of history.

The Birth of the Waffle Sole

Bill Bowerman, a co-founder of Nike and a track and field coach at the University of Oregon, was inspired to create a running shoe with superior traction. His experimentation with a waffle iron to create the sole pattern resulted in the iconic waffle sole, which provided exceptional grip on various surfaces. This invention laid the foundation for Nike’s future success.

Much of this, including the story of how the iconic shoe came to be, can be read in the biography of Nike Grüner Phil Night.

Nike Waffle Shoe: Memorabilia That Echoes History

Collectors and enthusiasts of Nike’s rich history have always had a soft spot for the waffle-soled shoes. The memorabilia associated with these shoes holds a special place in the hearts of those who appreciate the legacy and innovation of Nike. Here are some of the most coveted Nikeshoe memorabilia items and their corresponding price tags:

1. Vintage Nike Waffle Trainers: Original Nike Waffle Trainers from the 1970s are highly prized by collectors. These vintage kicks, often in mint condition, can command prices ranging from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on rarity and condition.
   
2. Prototype and Sample Shoes: Prototype and sample versions of Nike waffle shoes are extremely rare and sought after. These unique pieces of history can fetch prices ranging from $1,000 to several thousand dollars.
   
3. Limited-Edition Reissues: Nike periodically releases limited-edition reissues of classic waffle-soled shoes. These releases are often accompanied by special packaging and colorways. Prices for these reissues can range from $100 to $300 or more.
   
4. Signed Memorabilia: Collectors are always on the lookout for Nike waffle shoes signed by legendary athletes or Nike executives. The value of signed shoes can vary greatly, with some pairs selling for thousands of dollars.
   
5. Vintage Advertisements and Posters: Vintage advertisements and posters featuring Nike waffle shoes are also highly collectible. Prices for these items can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on rarity and condition.
   
6. Wearable Vintage Apparel: Vintage Nike apparel featuring waffle shoe designs, such as t-shirts and jackets, is also popular among collectors. These items can range in price from $50 to $200 or more, depending on rarity and condition.
   
   The Nike Waffle ist strongly connected to Running Legend Steve “Pre” Fontaine. Steve Prefontaine was more than just a talented runner; he was a charismatic and determined athlete who pushed the boundaries of distance running. Known for his signature mustache and fearless racing style, Pre captured the hearts of fans around the world. His remarkable career included setting multiple American records and competing in the 1972 Munich Olympics. Pre’s race-worn singlets, shorts, and shoes are extremely rare and valuable. These items, if accompanied by provenance, can command prices well into the five-figure range.
   
   Photo Credit Kristian Egelund // Unsplash