Nike Shox NZ

Shox NZ

Nike released its first Shox footwear in the early 2000s, beginning with the R4 running shoe and the BB4 basketball trainer. While their groundbreaking mechanical cushioning offered athletes high-performance responsiveness, their distinctive polyurethane columns gave them a unique look, and many were adopted as sporty lifestyle sneakers. Twenty years later, Nike celebrated the popularity of its Y2K-era Shox shoes by relaunching heritage models like the classy Shox NZ.

An evolution of the R4, the original Nike Shox NZ featured a breathable mesh upper with soft yet durable nubuck overlays forming broad, finger-like bars along the flanks. The modern update has the same bold look, but, depending on the model, incorporates materials such as high-quality leather and plush suede. Its lacing system is integrated into the sidewall panelling, ensuring a snug, secure fit, while a sturdy toe cap protects the forefoot and another overlay reinforces the heel. The low-cut collar and tongue are nicely padded for comfort around the foot, and the overall shape, which was initially designed to improve running speed, is masterfully streamlined.

The sole unit of the Shox NZ provides comprehensive underfoot support via soft foam forefoot cushioning and four Shox columns below the heel. Together, these elements offer a blend of shock absorption, responsiveness and comfort. Meanwhile, the tacky, hard-wearing rubber outsole provides long-lasting traction via a set of rounded, stud-like grip pads, with large circular lugs below each heel column.

Stylistically, the Nike Shox NZ has a powerful look as the striking upper panels create dynamic streaks along its flanks to complement the chunky Shox pillars at the heel. With its low-profile design, it is captivatingly sleek, and its sophisticated branding effects add yet more flair. Embroidered Swooshes bring a touch of elegance to the forefoot and lateral sidewall, while a Nike Shox capsule has been woven across the lateral ankle. More lettering has been etched into the tongue along with a rubberised tab containing the Shox logo. Other such emblems appear on the heel and outsole, and a final Swoosh has been debossed into the toe. All of these intricate details are presented with panache, imbuing the Shox NZ with a compelling sophistication.

Since being released in the early 2000s, the Nike Shox NZ has been revisited a number of times, including a 2012 Olympic edition featuring the United States’ team colours, and as part of 2014’s Trophy Pack celebrating the FIFA World Cup in Brazil. While these were one-off designs, the 2025 reissue comprises three stylish colourways, indicating a more significant return to the silhouette.

With its retro Y2K styling, sporty low-profile design and bold mechanical cushioning, the Nike Shox NZ is a performance-driven sneaker ideal for contemporary day-to-day living.