NBA sneakers that changed American culture forever

Throughout the history of the NBA, sneakers have been the focal point of many players' personalities, with many reflecting their personalities on the court.

From outrageous high tops with a lack of technology to the phone-syncing sneakers of today, sneakers have innovated to unprecedented heights over the years.

Some sneakers have become bigger than the players themselves, creating cultural shockwaves across the globe.

The NBA has fuelled the footwear industry for nearly 40 years, bringing fans closer to their favorite players than ever before.

NBA sneakers and American culture have always intertwined, from American music to blockbuster films that showcase the sneakers.

Here are the top five sneakers that have changed American culture over the past 100 years!

Released in 1969, the Adidas Superstar was famously worn by Kareem Abdul Jabbar, the 19-time NBA All-Star and the NBA second-highest scorer in history.

It wasn't until the 80s hip hop scene that gave the Superstars its cultural iconic symbol. The shoes were first worn by Run DMC combined with the Adidas shell suits. The sneaker is still worn today and is a legendary symbol of music and basketball.

Released in 1917, the Converse Chuck Taylor All-Stars have stood the test of time, becoming the most popular shoe in the early years of the NBA and one of the most purchased sneakers in history.

From Wilt Chamberlain to Bob Cousy, the sneaker has quite a history in the NBA. In 2014, Converse announced they had sold over one billion pairs since they were first created.

Michael Jordan sneakers would go on to become iconic footwear in American culture, but his involvement with Spike Lee helped the Jordan Four grow significantly.

From skyrocketing into American culture from the Spike Lee film 'Do the Right Thing,' the Jordan Four has since done collabs with streetwear brand Off-White and with superstar rapper Travis Scott.

Since Moses Malone wore the Air Force One when it was released in 1982, the sneaker has become an iconic symbol in American culture, selling over ten million annually today.

The sneaker properly rose to prominence in Nelly's 2002 tribute to the sneaker, fuelling a monumental rise to the top of the sneaker game in the modern era.

The Nike Air Jordan One laid the blueprint for the sneaker industry's growth in American culture, becoming the most iconic sneaker ever created.

The banning of the red and black colorway in 1985 only helped the publicity of the shoe, with Nike selling three million pairs in the first year. The Jordan One is still as prevalent as it was back then, with new models, colorways, and collaborations with high fashion brands.