Created by legendary Nike designer Bruce Kilgore, the Nike Air Force 1 was first released in 1982. They were  named after the airplane that the President of the United States travels in (the Air Force One) and were the first  Nike shoe that featured "Air" technology. Although Air Force 1 shoes are currently available in low, mid, and high  models they were originally only available in high and low. Both models featured a toebox absent of perforated  holes and had mesh side panels. Also, the Air Force 1 High model featured a innovative strap that aimed to  prevent ankle injuries while playing basketball.