There’s nothing quite like wearing a pair of sneakers based on or inspired by your favourite cartoon. I mean, can anything beat the unadulterated joy of strutting your stuff with your favourite character on your feet? Given the massive popularity of cartoon Nike shoes, many seem to share this sentiment, with some designs selling out within minutes of release.
Understanding just how hot these ‘toon-inspired shoes are, we thought it would be a brilliant idea to gather insight from our wonderful readers. We’re curious to know which Cartoon Nike shoes hold the title of ‘the most iconic of all time. But before you cast your vote at the bottom of the article, let’s take a little stroll down sneaker memory lane.
25. Jordan Spizike “Tasmanian Devil” (GS)
It wasn’t only Bugs Bunny from the Looney Tunes family who was a muse for a Jordan sneaker style. In 2015, the Tasmanian Devil had a Spizike release that boasted a striking black nubuck base complemented by “Bright Crimson” and “Court Purple” highlights. Just in case you’re curious how this colour scheme relates to the character, the kicks feature images of Taz twirling around on a basketball court on the insoles.
Release Date: 2015
Why we like them: These kicks are colourful, chic, and lively. If only these stylish sneakers hadn’t been released exclusively in GS sizes.
24. Jordan 7 “Marvin the Martian”
2015 saw another much-loved Looney Tunes character feature in the Jordan sneaker range. This time, Marvin the Martian inspired a unique Jordan 7 colourway, commemorating the Air Jordan 7’s 23rd anniversary. Even though this sneaker version does not boast special insole graphics or intricate details like Taz’s pair, the clean, all-black top with red and alien green accents undeniably captures the charm of this cheeky Martian.
Release Date: 2015
Why we like them: What’s not to like? They’re minimalistic yet dramatic, with a design that nods respectfully to an iconic cartoon figure. Though saying that, the Air Jordan 7 Retro “Barcelona Nights” does seem to have a more fitting connection to the “Hare” colour scheme—just an observation.
23. Jordan Son of Mars “Marvin the Martian”
In a fitting twist, Marvin the Martian inspired a Jordan Son of Mars colourway that is simply out of this world. The hybrid model is dressed in a tonal black colour scheme accented with red and neon green pops, giving a nod to the iconic character’s signature hues. We love that Michael Jordan’s many Space Jam co-stars have inspired unique and creative designs in the Jordan brand lineup.
Release Date: 2015
Why we like them: The hybrid nature of the model means there are a lot of striking details inspired by classic Jordan sneakers. Classic features like the elephant print from AJ 3 and the laser-etched midfoot strap from Jordan 20 appear especially stylish in an all-black colourway.
22. Nike Air Trainer III “Optimus Prime”
In the 80s, Transformers was one of the most popular cartoons and toy lines you could get your hands on. So, when this beloved animated series was turned into a live-action film franchise, it was no surprise that Nike capitalised on the nostalgia with a special edition Air Trainer III inspired by the iconic character Optimus Prime. This sneaker features a silver upper with red patent leather accents and black and blue detailing to make it look more like Optimus Prime.
Release Date: 2007
Why we like them: The design pays homage to one of our all-time favourite childhood characters, Optimus Prime. These silver, red, and blue sneakers certainly nod to the iconic character.
21. Nike SB Dunk High “Coraline“
Although “Coraline” may not ideally fit into the cartoon category, it categorically belongs to the animated fantasy genre, making it a somewhat fitting choice for our list. The film also shares an undeniable connection with the Nike brand as it was produced under Nike co-founder Phil Knight’s production house, Laika. This led to Nike designing 1000 “Coraline” Dunks to celebrate the film’s release. What’s fascinating is that Nike decided to release four different versions of the design. They gave us a conventional pair, another featuring large buttons, and one paired with props from the movie. However, the real gem of this collection was the limited edition design, with only 15 pairs in circulation, each presented in a custom wooden shoe box. Besides their exclusivity, these pairs just look unique. They make you think of the Otherworld. And as fans of the movie, having a piece of Coraline memorabilia in the form of these sneakers is a dream come true.
Release Date: 2009
Why we like them: Since the release of Coraline, the film has cemented its place as one of the industry’s most cherished stop-motion movies and amassed a continually growing fan base. Perhaps this growing fandom goes some way to explaining why these exceptional sneakers are in such high demand.
Where to Buy them: You can find the regular pair from the “Coraline” Nike Dunk collection on StockX. However, be prepared to part with at least $2000 USD for these kicks.
20. Nike Air Foamposite One “ParaNorman”
After the immense success of their “Coraline” Dunks, Laika and Nike joined forces once more for another cinematic-inspired masterpiece – ParaNorman. This time, however, they chose to work on a different sneaker style, creating an eerie Nike Air Foamposite One. This sneaker showcases a sinister black shell with volt-coloured flames that perfectly capture the film’s spooky flair. Plus, you get the little embroider detail on the heel that nods to the films protagonist. Like their predecessor, these sneakers were released in minimal numbers, with an estimated 800 pairs circulating. Most of them found their way to lucky Twitter users who shared their “weirdest” childhood photos to snag a pair, while a smaller batch of less than 100 pairs was up for grabs via eBay auctions.
Release Date: 2012
Why we like them: The Nike Air Foamposite One is already a unique and eye-catching sneaker (is my bias showing?), but the collaboration with ParaNorman takes it to another level with the spooky design inspired by the animated film.
19. Nike SB Dunk Low “Homer”
Of course, it wouldn’t be a collection of cartoon-inspired sneakers if it didn’t feature the Simpson family patriarch, Homer Simpson. The colourway features “University Blue” suede overlays over white leather, beautifully contrasted by the “Medium Yellow” Swooshes. Together, they represent Homer’s unchanging outfit. A sleek black midsole and classic gum rubber outsole complete the iconic look. Of course, there is no Simpsons branding, as this pair was only inspired by the character, not an official collaboration. However, if you didn’t manage to nab this modern classic for your sneaker collection in 2004, chances are a disappointed “D’Oh” might still echo in your memory.
Release Date: 2004
Why we like them: The Nike SB Dunk Low “Homer” is iconic despite no direct Simpson branding. The lack of branding works in the pair’s favour as it is loved for its wearability and the connection that the colour scheme has with everyone’s favourite TV dad/lovable oaf.
18. Nike SB Dunk High “Marge”
Making it onto the sneaker scene just four years after her loving husband, Marge Simpson, happily claimed her spot in the Nike SB Dunk lineup with a bright yellow, blue and green pair of Nike SB Dunk High sneakers. Marge’s bright yellow skin can be seen on the bright upper part of the sneakers, complemented by bright blue overlays that obviously represent her iconic hair. Accents in “Radiant Green” for the Nike Swoosh logos stand in on this pair as a symbol of Marge’s signature green dress. Bright and unique sneakers aren’t necessarily everyone’s thing, but if you are willing to step outside your comfort zone in style, embrace these bright hues and your love for the Simpson family.
Release Date: 2008
Why we Like them: The Nike SB Dunk High “Marge” is loud and lovely. It gives you everything you need to make a statement with your footwear: bold colours, perfectly placed accents, and a touch of nostalgia courtesy of one of our favourite TV moms.
17. Nike SB Dunk Low Pro “Bart Simpson”
Rounding out the Simpson family members who have made it onto the list is Bart. Marge and Homer would undoubtedly be proud to see their little boy taking centre stage with his own pair of Nike SB Dunk Low Pro sneakers in 2022. These kicks arrived on the sneaker scene more than a decade after the famous couple had made their mark, but were still highly anticipated and well-received by fans. Taking after his parents with a colour-blocking theme that is more of a nod to the character than an outright depiction, the subtle hints of the troublemaker are definitely buried within this pair’s bright yellow, orange, and crisp blue hues.
Release Date: 2022
Why we like them: As one of the coolest skater dudes of our childhood, we couldn’t think of a better character to be brought to life using the iconic skating silhouette than Bart Simpson. These cartoon Nike shoes give you just the right amount of Bart flair with their colourway while providing a fresh and unique design.
16. Nike SB Dunk High “Doraemon”
No one was expecting it when the famous manga and anime series Doraemon was celebrated by Nike with these gorgeous Nike SB Dunk High “Doraemon” sneakers. The adorable cat character stole hearts the second he debuted. Nike wasn’t about to turn down the opportunity to delight fans with this bright colourway. The sneakers boast a “White”, “Light Photo Blue”, and “Speed Red” colourway that perfectly mirrors the colouring of the protagonist of the acclaimed series. Even the little bell on Doraemon’s collar is represented in the sneakers by the bright yellow tongue label that meets the red lining of the collar (charming Nike, we see what you did there.)
Release Date: 2020
Why we like them: The beloved time-travelling cat has been a Japanese pop culture mainstay since the swinging of the 60s, so any shoe featuring his likeness was bound to be a hit among fans. I mean, is it possible to look at these shoes and not immediately see Doeramon? But what made this release exceptionally memorable was the beautiful synergy with Doraemon’s 50th anniversary, making it a delightful piece of memorabilia to snatch up among the many keepsakes released that year.
15. “Spider-Verse” Nike Dunk Low
If you have been following our website for a while, you will know that there are many custom Nike SB Dunk Low and Nike Dunk sneakers that have been fashioned after characters in the Spider-Verse, but there are very few official pairs. Few, but not none. In 2023, after the explosive success of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, custom artists weren’t the only ones keen on delivering stunning Spider-Man-inspired sneakers, as Nike got on the Miles Morales train and delivered this beautiful, moody pair of Nike Dunk Lows. With a predominantly black colourway that incorporates elements of white, red, and blue, this is easily one of the most wearable Spider-Man sneakers Nike has ever crafted.
Release Date: 2023
Why we like them: If you have been looking for a highly wearable pair of cartoon-inspired sneakers, the “Spider-Verse” Nike Dunk Low sneakers may be the pair for you. The thought and attention to detail that went into the design are palpable.
14. Air Jordan 7 “Hare”
I know what you might be thinking. “Didn’t Space Jam only come out in 1996? Why is there a ‘Hare’ sneaker?” and your confusion would be warranted. This pair of Air Jordan 7 sneakers came out a good five years before Michael Jordan ever starred alongside the enigmatic Bugs Bunny for a feature-length film, but did debut one of the first times that the two pop culture icons worked together. The sneakers debuted during a Super Bowl ad featuring MJ and Bugs, marking the beginning of an era where the infamous cartoon bunny was practically the mascot of Nike. The Air Jordan 7 “Hare” colourway boasts crisp white leather with subtle silver highlights throughout, all complementing the lively array of colours adorning the tongue.
Release Date: 1992
Why we like them: These vibrant sneakers have a firm spot in every cartoon shoe lover’s heart. They first caught the public eye when featured in the 1991 Super Bowl advert on the famous Toon character. Even after so many years, their popularity has remained strong among sneakerheads. This is why we’ve seen the colourway revived twice and even adapted into the renowned AJ1 style. They are just beautiful.
13. “Spider-Verse” Nike Air Max Plus 3
Once again representing Spider-Man in a toned-down, predominantly black style, the Nike Air Max Plus 3 brought its A-game in 2023 when Nike dropped its Spider-Man-inspired colourway. Comfortable, sporty, and a little bit of Spidey, these sneakers gorgeously combined everything that Nike stands for with the world of Spider-Man.
Release Date: 2023
Why we like them: Innovative, ingeniously coloured, and perfect for any occasion, these high-tech sneakers look like they fell off the bottom end of a Spider-Man suit. They are about to turn you into a superhero.
12. Nike Zoom LeBron 6 “Stewie Griffin” PE
No one expected it when basketball superstar LeBron James strutted his stuff on the court wearing a pair of Player Exclusive Nike Zoom LeBron 6 sneakers in a completely custom “Stewie Griffin” colourway. Who would have thought the star was a fan of Family Guy’s diabolical infant? It didn’t take long for this pair of sneakers to become iconic in the sneaker world. Channelling Stewie’s iconic vivid outfit for the colourway, the sneakers combine white, blue, bold red and bright yellow, all of which roll together to represent Stewie’s signature long-sleeve and overalls outfit to a tee, even going so far as to include iconography of Stewie’s slanted, cheeky eyes and the buttons on his little romper.
Release Date: 2009
Why we like them: Although many have tried, no pair of sneakers has come close to capturing the iconic design of these Nike Zoom LeBron 6 “Stewie Griffin” player-exclusive sneakers. The LeBron 18 Low made one of the best attempts at bringing the player-exclusive colourway to general retail for fans. Still, it was never quite the same as this iconic pair.
11. Nike SB Dunk High Premium “Quagmire”
While Glenn Quagmire might not be one of the most savoury cartoon characters out there, it would be a lie to say that he isn’t one of the most recognisable and beloved when it comes to the Family Guy cast. The colourway of this pair of sneakers is both unhinged and endearing, just like the character that they are fashioned after. The blue suede upper brings Quagmire’s jeans, while the bright red overlays with intricate floral embroidery mimic one of his iconic button-up shirts. Tastefully completed with some white to represent the character’s gleaming smile, the final element is a brown outsole that represents the character’s iconic pointy boots. This eye-catching design will have you unironically saying, “Giggity, giggity, goo!”
Release Date: 2009
Why we like them: As we said, Quagmire is one of the most recognisable and beloved characters from Family Guy, and this colourway is just as unhinged as him, but in the best way possible. It’s vibrant, full of details, and perfectly balanced—just what any fan needs in their collection.
10. Nike Air Max Plus “Spider-Man”
It’s rare that we see an Air Max silhouette modelled after cartoons or animations, let alone an animation that swept the world like Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse did. There are a handful of official sneakers created for this collaboration between Sony Pictures and Nike. Still, one of the standout pairs is, without a doubt, the Nike Air Max Plus “Spider-Man. ” Complete with a dark colourway that brings the Spider-Verse movie’s main character, Miles Morales, to mind, these sneakers boast a stunning black, blue, and red colourway with a hint of white that perfectly represents the character. These gorgeous and sporty sneakers are one of the subtle yet beautiful cartoon Nike shoes.
Release Date: 2023
Why we Like them: We are fans of the futuristic-looking Nike Air Max Plus silhouette and probably even bigger fans of Spider-Man. So when you combine the two, it’s a match made in sneaker heaven.
9. SpongeBob SquarePants x Kyrie 5
Kyrie Irving has always been one of the frontrunners in making vibrant and eye-catching colourways, parallelled only by his talent in making designs inspired by beloved cartoons. While he made many cartoon-inspired sneakers that were stunning in their own right, like his unreleased “Woody” pair and his Kyrie 5 that was inspired by Rick and Morty, one of the best collaborative collections that he has ever made is the SpongeBob SquarePants x Kyrie 5 pack. While the collection included sneakers for several characters in the show, one of the top three was definitely SpongeBob himself. The sneakers include branding from both Kyrie and Nickelodeon, but other than that, they are pretty plain. The real fun comes into the sneaker with the bright, eye-catching yellow colourway and the caricature printed on the heel end of each insole. Of course, the SpongeBob pair features a smiling SpongeBob peering out from beneath and a bright yellow sock lining that gives the effect that you are looking at the infamous sponge himself.
Release Date: 2019
Why we like them: Kyrie Irving, a massive fan of the popular animated series, ensured his collaboration did justice to the theme. We appreciate how the mesh cleverly reflects SpongeBob’s porous texture, producing a design that represents the beloved cartoon and is incredibly stylish. However, we have seen custom sneaker artists add extra flourishes to amplify the SpongeBob theme even further. So, if you’d like to heighten the association even more, there’s scope for that.
8. SpongeBob SquarePants x Kyrie 5 “Squidward”
Much like the “SpongeBob” pair in the pack, the SpongeBob SquarePants x Kyrie 5 “Squidward” is simple, even more so than the other sneakers in the pack. This is no doubt a nod to Squidward’s somewhat dull personality, a feature that he is beloved for. His dullness is only emphasised by his unimpressed expression peering up at you from the insole of the sneakers. Squidward’s brown shirt is incorporated into the look thanks to the rubber outsole of the sneakers, which shares the aesthetic. This completes the look and really brings the essence of the character to life.
Release Date: 2019
Why we like them: While these kicks may be plain, their colour scheme is beautiful. Plus, the little clarinet detail on the inside of the tongue is the perfect nod to the beloved character.
7. SpongeBob SquarePants x Kyrie 5 “Patrick”
Everyone’s favourite unintelligent starfish, Patrick, is the final pair of sneakers of note within the SpongeBob SquarePants x Kyrie 5 collection. SpongeBob’s best friend probably has the most exciting colourway in the collection, thanks to his bright pink skin and his luminescent green shorts, which are represented in the sneakers. The smooth underside of the starfish is perfectly represented by the mudguard and inner lining of the sneakers. In contrast, the ridged and mottled top side of a starfish is represented by the different-sized light pink spots that smatter the top of the sneakers, giving them an almost 3d effect. Like the other two sneakers in the pack, Patrick’s happy and smiling face gleams from the insole.
Release Date: 2019
Why we like them: The pack is loved for many reasons, but Patrick’s bright pink pair is definitely a favourite. Much like the other pairs, it has a few more minor details that tie it to the beloved character. However, the winning feature of this pair is undoubtedly the vibrantly coloured upper.
6. Air Jordan 1 Stash Utility “Prowler”
These were just a pair of sneakers that were seen for a couple of frames in Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse. However, the second that fans saw the Prowler’s sneakers, they simply had to have them. Being the talk of the town for weeks after the movie was released, Nike finally shared that the stunning Nike Air Jordan 1 Stash Utility “Prowler” was a pair made for friends and family at both Jordan and Sony Pictures. And the audience collectively said, “Aww”. The stunning black and purple silhouette combined the bright pink elements of The Prowler, a possible antagonist in the next Spider-Verse movie, Spider-Man: Beyond the Spider-Verse, to bring the sneakers from the big screen into reality.
Release Date: 2023
Why we like them: Who would pass up the chance to walk in the shoes of their favourite cartoon characters- and we do mean literally? Sadly, these aren’t easy to get hold of since they were limited to Jordan and Sony’s friends and family. Still, that makes us want these kicks even more. Plus, how handy are those utility pockets on the side of the shoe?
5. Nike CJ81 “Megatron” Elite TD Cleats
These special edition Cleats were released as part of the “Megatron Rises” pack launched in 2013 as a tribute to the former American football wide receiver Calvin Johnson a.k.a “Megatron”, the player for whom the CJ81 line was designed. As you probably guessed, his nickname matches one of the main antagonists of the Transformers franchise, so it made sense that Nike would spring on the opportunity to work with Hasbro to bring out this beautiful limited edition collection. These special cleats were designed to be the on-field counterpart of the beautiful Nike CJ81 Trainer Max “Megatron” you will see further down on this list. It shares its stunning colourway that matches the Transformers character and is covered in custom artwork.
Release Date: 2013
Why we like them: These stunning purple cleats are definitely eye-catching. Plus, they share so many details with the Transformers character that if you knew your stuff, you’d immediately see the resemblance. The bold colour and design also give off a cool, futuristic vibe.
4. Nike Air Trainer SC II “Megatron”
Also part of the “Megatron Rises” pack, the Nike Air Trainer SC II “Megatron” shares the same colourway as the other two in the trio but brings in more muted tones and a lot more black. Still, the pair has its own lovable elements. Breaking away from the entirely reflective upper shared between the other sneakers in the pack, this pair swaps it out for a reflective circuitry board pattern on the medial and lateral quarter panels but maintains the Decepticon iconography on the heel.
Release Date: 2013
Why we like them: The “Megatron Rises” packs have brought forth some of the best cartoon Nike shoes from a toy line and sneaker manufacturer. However, you can easily see that the Nike Air Trainer SC II “Megatron” is the more wearable of the three. And that’s part of what adds to its appeal.
3. Nike CJ81 Trainer Max “Megatron”
Transformers really had it all: talking alien robots who came to Earth to defend it from the evil faction that had taken over their homeworld, a great story with magnificent characters, and most importantly, some of the sexiest cars that have ever been invented. Although the “Megatron Rises” pack included three stunning sneakers, the Nike CJ81 Trainer Max was, without a doubt, the best of the bunch. It is adorned with a combination of “Court Purple, “”University Red, ” and “Wolf Grey” hues. Peppered throughout the sneakers are gorgeous Decepticon-inspired details that bring the look together, matched by the limited edition mini-Megatron figurine complete with a Nike logo.
Release Date: 2013
Why we like them: These kicks are effortlessly cool. Plus, Johnson’s favourite Megatron quote, ‘Show no mercy,’ is printed under the midfoot strap, which is quite a nice touch.
2. Nike SB Dunk Low “Powerpuff Girls” Pack
Unlike some of the other packs on this list, splitting these girls up would feel like a crime, so we just aren’t going to do that, okay? These sneakers mark one of the rare occasions when fans begged Nike for a concept for so long that they couldn’t help but bring it to life. After what felt like ages of demand, the Nike SB Dunk Low “Powerpuff Girls” pack emerged in December last year. Bringing the nostalgia of our early years into full swing, the colourways of this pack are fully inspired by the three sisters and main characters of the animated show: Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup. Each of the sneakers in the pack beautifully captures the spirit of the respective character, with pink and orange elements representing Blossom, blue and yellow for sweet little Bubbles, and classic black and bright green representing the badass of the trio, Buttercup. With such iconic colours that almost seem to jump to life no matter the medium, it’s a wonder that Nike waited as long as they did to bring the iconic trio to life. Still, the Nike SB Dunk Low was definitely the right choice to do so.
Release Date: 2023
Why we like them: The colours of these Nike SB Dunk sneakers look amazing! We also love that each girl gets a different fabric for her pair. It makes each pair unique and special. Not to forget the sneaky details that bring the inspiration home, including the different Powerpuff Girls ingredients on the back of the tongue and the unique Mojo JoJo graphics skillfully imprinted on the insole of each pair of sneakers in the pack.
1. Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse”
Obviously, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG “Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” had to make an appearance. Have you seen these sneakers? In 2023, Nike teamed up with Sony Pictures to return to the Spider-Verse with a triumphant sequel to the pair they had released for the previous movie, Spider-Man: Into The Spider-Verse. Almost as successful of a sequel as the movie itself, the Air Jordan 1 Retro High OG released in honour of Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse took the sneaker community by storm. Sporting a striking “University Red”, “Black”, and “White” colourway, the sneakers produced an inventive twist on the classic Air Jordan 1 Chicago Style, taking inspiration from the medley of animation styles that bring the Spider-Verse to life, adding a touch of cartoon appeal to the mix.
Release Date: 2023
Why we like them: I don’t know about you, but for us here at Sneaker Fortress, one of the standout features was the stunning glow-in-the-dark outsole that genuinely shone like it was lit from within by LED lights rather than retaining and reflecting UV rays. The usual ghostly green flow of glow-in-the-dark outsoles is apparently a thing of the past, as these sneakers shine pure white.
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