One silhouette that has played a defining role in the rise of Nike SB within both trainer and skateboard culture is the Nike SB Stefan Janoski. Designed by a skateboarder for skateboarders, the design is now over a decade old, but already has the status of a legendary favourite in the list of skateboarding classics.
Join us as we explore the history and highlights of the success story between Stefan Janoski and Nike Skateboarding!
Who is Stefan Janoski?
Stefan Janoski, born on 18 July 1979, is a versatile American professional within the skateboarding world. For many of you, he is of course best known for his signature Nike SB models. But besides his skateboarding career, he is also known as an artist, writer and musician.
The early years of skateboarding and Stefan Janoski
In the early years of skateboarding, the sport was a rebellious reaction to traditional sports. At that time, the most popular sports in the world were football, baseball and basketball. Sports that were largely based on teamwork.
For skateboarders, this was a bit underhanded. A skateboarder who grew up in the 1970s will tell you that organised sport was about something very different. Indeed, teamwork was a disguised attempt to hide uniformity and suppress individuality. As a result, skateboarding became not only a pastime but also an anti-cult movement.
At the time, this gave skaters a status of subculture and rebellion, something that attracted some kids like a young Janoski. At the same time, the possibility of creativity without restrictions and the emphasis on freedom became something quite unique to skateboarding.
Professional career in skateboarding
As Janoski grew older, he began to shine in the world of professional skateboarding. With his unique style, technical skills and creative approach to skateboarding, he managed to capture the attention of the skate world. Thus, Janoski is known for his 'switch-stance' skills and casual style.
Leading brand Nike SB
Nike SB is the skateboarding footwear and streetwear division of the well-known Nike brand. Moreover, Nike Skateboarding has established itself as one of the most respected names in the skateboarding community. Thus, it is known for its innovative designs and technologies developed specifically for skateboarding.
But besides professional skateboarders, Nike SB is also loved by urban fashion enthusiasts for its combination of style, functionality and quality.
The collaboration between Stefan Janoski and Nike SB
The collaboration between Stefan Janoski and Nike SB is a perfect example of how two strong names can reinforce each other. Stefan Janoski's insight into skateboarding culture and his creative vision combined with Nike SB's expertise in technology and product development have resulted in a range of shoes and apparel that appeals to skateboarders and trainer fans alike.
The road to cooperation
Before there was a Janoski and Nike collaboration, skateboarders (who were not sponsored) already chose Nike. Back then, basketball models were especially popular. For instance, the Nike Blazer, a classic from basketball history, was a bestseller among skaters.
Only the design and technology of the basketball trainer evolved. A detrimental consequence for skaters of this was the thicker midsole, as they value board feel.
The story of Janoski and the Nike SB team began as a response to this problem. In addition, in 2002, Nike began selecting renowned skateboarders with impressive competition results. This was important to give more depth to the brand, which had little experience at the time.
Until then, Nike's designs lacked cultural context and did not fully meet functional requirements. Thanks to these new collaborations, Nike SB took an important step by reintroducing the Dunk basketball trainers. The Dunks quickly became popular among skateboarders because of their minimalist midsole.
The first Nike SB x Stefan Janoski shoe
The highlight of the story, of course, revolves around the trainer. With its simple design and low step-in, there was hardly any criticism when it was first released.
It is always great when a sport gets the attention of a giant in the sports industry. But the release of the Stefan Janoski Nike model had a broader meaning. Indeed, the Janoski's represent something unique. It is not just another release coming from a design team that has nothing to do with the sport. Previous attempts by Nike in this area left a nasty aftertaste of a potential cash cow.
For this release, Janoski collaborated with renowned Nike SB designer James Arizumi. In doing so, he set strict requirements focused on skateboarding in terms of the shoe's construction and proportions. "Stefan wanted every part of the shoe to serve a specific purpose," said James Arizumi.
With a nod to his family's winery in Vacaville, California, Stefan made sure the sole of the original model was made of cork. In other places, the use of a more traditional vulcanised sole - first used in a Nike SB shoe - proved to be a masterstroke. Despite its minimalist design, the Nike SB Janoski revolutionised the skate world.
Other shoes from the collaboration
The Nike Janoskis quickly grew to become must haves within streetwear and were therefore worn by casuals as well as skaters. Bit ironic that this soon caused the Janoski sneaker to deviate from the very simplicity that made it the contemporary masterpiece. Indeed, Nike SB adapted it over the years to suit its performance and lifestyle.
As a result, several variations entered the market such as the OG Zoom Janoski, Janoski Max, Janoski Max 2, Hyperfeel, Mid, Slip and more. Moreover, the material of the upper varied between leather, canvas, mesh and suede.
Popular Nike SB Stefan Janoski models
When we talk about the Stefan Janoski x Nike SB collection, there are a few models that really stand out. Which ones those are you'll discover below!
1. Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski Canvas
The Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski Canvas is the classic canvas version of the Janoski shoe loved for its simple and timeless design. The durable canvas upper offers optimal durability and the Zoom Air unit provides responsive cushioning while skateboarding.
2. Nike SB Stefan Janoski Max
The Nike SB Stefan Janoski Max combines the iconic style of the Janoski shoes with the comfortable cushioning of the Nike Air Max. The result is a shoe that is both stylish and very comfortable, whether you are skateboarding or just walking down the street.
3. Nike SB Stefan Janoski Slip
For those looking for ultimate convenience and comfort, the Nike SB Stefan Janoski Slip is a great choice. The lack of laces makes it easy to take the shoes on and off, while the Zoom Air unit provides cushioning and responsiveness.
4. Nike SB Stefan Janoski RM
The RM stands for 'Remastered', so this model is an updated version of the original Janoski shoe. The Nike SB Stefan Janoski RM has an improved fit, more cushioning and extra durability. This makes it a favourite among skateboarders looking for performance and comfort.
5. Nike SB Stefan Janoski Hyperfeel
The Nike SB Stefan Janoski Hyperfeel is designed with Nike SB's Hyperfeel technology, which ensures a snug fit and direct contact with the skateboard. It offers unmatched board feel and flexibility, giving skateboarders optimal control during their tricks.
Where to buy Nike SB x Stefan Janoski?
If you are interested in buying Nike SB x Stefan Janoski trainers, there are several options available. Mainly well-known retailers, Nike's official website and marketplaces offer these shoes. You can easily discover the available models, prices and sizes by using the Sneakerjagers sneaker search engine!
Nike SB x Stefan Janoski sizing guide
When buying a Nike SB Stefan Janoski, it is of course important to choose the right size for optimal fit and comfort. So we try to answer the question, "How do the Nike SB Stefan Janoski fall?" below!
Nike SB Stefan Janoski Max
Generally, it is recommended to choose your normal shoe size for the Stefan Janoski Max. This shoe has a true-to-size fit and offers plenty of room around the toes.
Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski Canvas
The canvas version of the Stefan Janoski shoe has a slightly tighter fit compared to the Max. We therefore recommend choosing half a size larger than your normal shoe size for a comfortable fit.
Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski RM
The Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski RM has an improved fit compared to the original Janoski shoe. As a result, it falls true to size. We therefore recommend choosing your normal shoe size for a proper fit.
Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski Slip
The Nike SB Zoom Stefan Janoski Slip has a slightly looser fit due to the lack of laces. It is recommended to choose your normal shoe size. Are you unsure between two sizes? Then choose the smaller size for a better fit.
Nike SB Stefan Janoski Hyperfeel
The Nike SB Stefan Janoski Hyperfeel has a snug fit for optimal boardfeel. Therefore, we recommend choosing half a size smaller than your normal shoe size for a better fit.
Nike SB Stefan Janoski OG
The Nike SB Stefan Janoski OG has a true-to-size fit. We therefore recommend you choose your normal shoe size.
Nike SB Stefan Janoski Elite
The Nike SB Stefan Janoski Elite has a narrower fit. We therefore recommend taking half a size larger than your normal shoe size for a comfortable fit.
What are you waiting for?
Whether you're an avid skateboarder or just looking for some popular streetwear, the Stefan Janoski x Nike SB collection has something for everyone. So what are you waiting for? Start looking for your perfect pair of Stefan Janoski's or Nike SB sneakers in our search engine and enjoy the iconic match these two brands have to offer!