Nike Gato runners

Gato

First launched in 2010, the Nike Gato series was originally designed for futsal and other indoor sports. Its low-profile build and flat, grippy sole also made it great for skating, so Nike SB crafted its own variations as well. In 2018, the brand produced a stylish, skater-friendly Gato with streetwear label Supreme, eventually leading to its full return as a modern lifestyle sneaker in 2025.

The Nike Gato has a mixed material upper with an underlayer of mesh and angular panels made from premium leather or plush suede. This gives it a compelling blend of breathability and durability with asymmetric overlays on the toe and heel for extra protection. Large raised Swooshes punctuate each flank, bringing even more depth to the silhouette, and intricate stitching effects decorate the forefoot.

The Gato’s flat sole is low to the ground, with a soft, comfortable Cushlon interior and a non-marking gum rubber outsole. This last element is covered in honeycomb-shaped grip pods each containing a different set of tread lines for outstanding traction during intense movement, including sudden stops and sharp turns, particularly on indoor surfaces.

As well as having a well-balanced performance build which still makes it an effective indoor sporting shoe, the Nike Gato also has a stylish throwback aesthetic. Its layered upper features dynamic geometric cutouts around the bold sidewall Swooshes, with a mini-logo discreetly placed on the forefoot above a triangle of perforations. Another set of ventilation holes appears on the otherwise clean heel tab, Nike branding accents the tongue and the gum outsole adds a classic touch.

The Gato’s neat, classy design pays homage to the sporting heritage of its 2010s predecessors, while its stunning retro look and performance features make it both fashionably versatile and incredibly comfortable for all-day wear.