Sneaker culture has revolutionized the luxury resale market, with footwear emerging as a dominant category since the mid-1980s. For sneaker collectors, it's no secret that the market craves unique collaborations and limited edition, expensive sneaker releases. At Sotheby's, our Streetwear & Modern Collectibles team specializes in curating the finest selection of highly coveted and popular sneakers. Discover the most expensive sneakers for sale on our marketplace. Explore coveted collaborations, Friends and Family releases, iconic grails, and more rare sneakers below.
The 7 Most Expensive Sneakers Available for Immediate Purchase
1. Nike SB Dunk Low Paris Bernard Buffet
The Nike SB Dunk Low Paris Bernard Buffet stands as one of the most sought-after and visually captivating Nike SB Dunk Lows ever created. Originally released in 2003 as part of Nike's White Dunk Exhibition, only around 200 pairs were made for this specific iteration. The Paris colorway, featuring canvas overlays adorned with the artwork of renowned French painter Bernard Buffet, showcases the city's unique artistic heritage. Buffet, a prominent figure in the expressionist movement, boldly rejected abstract painting and advocated for representational art during a time when abstraction dominated the art world. With its rarity, stunning design, and cultural significance, the Nike SB Dunk Low Paris Bernard Buffet has become one of the most coveted SB Dunk lows among collectors. This rare sneaker commands attention as one of the most exclusive and highly valued SB Dunks available for immediate purchase on our online Sneaker Shop.
2. Apple Inc. Omega Sports Apple Computer Sneakers
These incredibly rare sneakers, custom-made exclusively for Apple employees, have become one of the most highly valued pairs available for purchase. Created as a special giveaway during a National Sales Conference in the mid-1990s, these rare sneakers were never made available to the general public. Adorned with the iconic rainbow Apple logo on the tongue and lateral quarter, these coveted sneakers stand out with their predominantly white upper. With a limited production run and an exclusive distribution to Apple employees, this pair of sneakers has remained incredibly obscure, adding to its allure and desirability among sneaker collectors. As a result, it has become one of the most expensive sneakers on the resale market, making it a true grail.
3. Nike Air Jordan 4 Travis Scott Purple Friends and Family
The Nike Air Jordan 4 Travis Scott Purple Friends and Family is a highly coveted and incredibly rare sneaker that has captured the attention of collectors worldwide. Initially spotted on DJ Chase B's feet during Travis Scott's launch event for the Air Jordan 4 'Houston Oilers,' this elusive purple sneaker instantly piqued the interest of sneaker collectors. Worn by Scott himself throughout 2018, it remained an exclusive sneaker that was only released as a Friends and Family drop in 2019. The Nike Air Jordan 4, known for its iconic design and visible Air cushioning, has a rich history of sneaker collaborations and is highly sought after by collectors. This particular pair features a soft purple suede upper, black grid mesh, and unique details like matte waffle eyelets and a translucent grey sole. Adorned with the Cactus Jack logo and Nike Air logo, this Air Jordan 4 is believed to have been made exclusively for Travis Scott's inner circle. With its rarity, striking design, and exclusive status, the Nike Air Jordan 4 Travis Scott Purple Friends and Family is among the most expensive sneakers for sale now.
4. Nike Dunk High Wu Tang
The Wu-Tang Clan Nike Dunk High, finished in the iconic black and Goldenrod colors, has achieved legendary status as one of the most coveted sneakers on the market. This limited edition Nike High Dunk release, with only 36 pairs believed to have been produced, showcases the Wu-Tang logo on the heel and custom tongue label, adding to its exclusivity and desirability among sneaker collectors. Today, the Wu-Tang Clan Nike Dunk High stands as one of the most expensive sneakers available for purchase at Sotheby's, capturing the attention of sneaker enthusiasts and collectors alike.
5. Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro Manila
The Nike Air Jordan 4 Retro Manila stands as one of the most coveted and expensive sneakers available at Sotheby's today. Released in conjunction with the grand opening of Air Jordan Brand's first store in the Philippines, this highly limited edition Nike Air Jordan pays homage to the country's passion for basketball. With only 150 pairs ever released, this particular pair, numbered 143 out of 150, showcases premium materials and intricate detailing. The predominantly green upper represents the lush tropical landscapes of the Philippines, while ostrich print leather and stingray leather add a touch of luxury. The black interior lining, quilted insole, and waxed black laces elevate the design of this expensive Air Jordan, while accents in yellow, red, and blue symbolize the colors of the country's flag.
6. Nike Air Force 1 Low Lux Alligator & Case
With only 25 pairs believed to exist, the Nike Air Force 1 Low Lux Alligator & Case has become one of the most coveted AF1s and expensive sneakers to buy now. Crafted with a full alligator skin upper, leather lining, and leather midsole, this exclusive Air Force 1 Low release showcases unparalleled craftsmanship. Adding to its uniqueness, the inside back heel is intricately embroidered with the name "USHER," rumored to be a special customization. In 1982, the Nike Air Force 1 revolutionized the sneaker industry by introducing "Air" technology in its midsole, thanks to the collaboration between designer Bruce Kilgore and an aerospace engineer. Since then, the Nike Air Force 1s have remained a fan favorite worldwide, celebrated for its versatility and cultural significance.
7. Nike MAG Back to the Future
The Nike MAG, made famous by its appearance in the timeless 1989 film Back to the Future II, has become an emblem of rarity and desirability in the sneaker world. With its revolutionary "power laces" feature, the Nike MAG instantly captured the imagination of sneaker collectors worldwide. Although initially unattainable, Nike released a limited collection of 1,500 pairs in 2011, partnering with the Michael J. Fox Foundation to support Parkinson's research. This iconic Nike sneaker release quickly established itself as one of Nike's most sought-after and highly acclaimed launches. The unforgettable scenes of Marty McFly donning the self-lacing Nike MAGs created an indelible mark in popular culture, inspiring subsequent editions such as the Nike MAG (2016) and the Nike Adapt Mag (2019). Today, the Nike MAG remains an iconic symbol of innovation, nostalgia, and exceptional value, solidifying its position as one of the most expensive sneakers available now at Sotheby's.
