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Introducing the adidas NMD_R1: A True Original
When adidas released Boost cushioning in 2013, they kicked off a whole new era in the sneaker game. At first glance, the innovative cushioning system may have resembled Styrofoam, but Boost technology took off in the running world due to its ultimate comfort and incredible energy return. It wasn't long before non-runners soon caught on to the Boost phenomenon, and shoes like the Ultra Boost runners started crossing over as lifestyle sneakers.
In 2015, the original NMD (later called the NMD_R1) was launched and marketed as a pure lifestyle sneaker. The R1 would go on to be released in hundreds of colorways and spawn an entire family of NMD iterations. But it's the original R1 that remains one of adidas' most iconic modern sneakers.
Performance Features of "The Nomad"
NMD stands for "Nomad," perhaps because these shoes are so comfortable, you can roam anywhere in them. The simple, yet innovative features include:
- Primeknit textured upper gives a sock-like, comfortable fit
- Boost midsole provides cushiony comfort and superior shock absorption
- Durable rubber outsole provides excellent traction
NMD_R1s Are Rocked by Everyone
The NMD_R1s are beloved by sneakerheads and kids of all ages. They've also been spotted on famous feet, from athletes to A-list celebrities:
- Portland Trail Blazers' Damian Lillard has a post-game pair.
- Record producer Metro Boomin and rapper Fabolous kick around in them.
- They've walked the red carpet with the likes of Jaden Smith, Kylie Jenner and Justin Timberlake.
Drawing Inspiration from the adidas Originals
While creating this "runner," designers pulled directly from the adidas running vault, borrowing elements from three adidas Originals. The bold blue and red color blocks in the midsole were hatched from Boston Super and further refined, taking cues from Rising Star and Micropacer. The NMD_R1 takes these elements to the next level with large, 3-dimensional plugs that provide lateral stability. Some critics say the midsole plugs detract from the Boost midsole's overall comfort, but the R1 wouldn't be the R1 without them.
Popular NMD_R1 Colorway Releases
Since 2105, the R1 has dropped a virtual rainbow of colorways and collabs of the "Nomad." Many are hard to come by and can command four-figure prices. The most sought-after NMD_R1 collectables include:
Primeknit Black OG
This is the shoe that started it all. The OG features a black Primeknit upper, white Boost midsoles, and red and blue midsole plugs. After its initial release, this model blew up on the resale market, selling for upwards of $1,000. But as more pairs became available, its value has leveled off, going for a more affordable $200. The Black OG is the most quintessential R1, so if you can only afford one pair, this might be the one.
Consortium "Key City" Black 3M
The second R1 release features a black upper with reflective grey stripes and highlights. You can pick up a pair for under $200.
Friends and Family 2016. This ultra-rare version features a Primeknit upper in Oreo on top of the Black OG's tooling. This shoe was never sold to the public and can resale in the thousands.
Primeknit
Primeknit "Yellow Gold" Camo. This textured black and gold colorway without stripes or branding can pull in $200-300 or more.
adidas X Nice Kicks NMD_R1 Primeknit. One of the most collectable of R1s, this silhouette features a tie-dyed red upper and sells for upwards of $1,000.
Primeknit Vintage White and Lush Red. The first white colorway with the same blue and red midsole plugs as the OG is rare and can garner hundreds of dollars.
Bape Olive Camo
adidas and Bape dropped a handful of camo colorways, with Olive Camo the most hyped. This shoe regularly commands over $500.
Primeknit Black OG 2017
Fans eagerly awaited a restock of the first black OGs, and they finally came in 2017. That release dropped the bottom out of the resale market for this colorway, but it still can collect $200 to $300.
Solar Red
This brilliant monochromatic crimson sneaker goes for around $200 to $300.
Collectability of the NMD_R1: Rock It or Stock It?
Because the NMD_R1 comes in rare, highly collectable colorways and more accessible hues, it's perfect for rocking and stocking. The earlier classics and some of the more valuable collabs tend to hold their value, while others increase in value. Since resale prices vary so drastically, sneakerheads can pick up one or two rarer versions for displaying and a couple more for kicking around.
