To find unique Nike sneakers beyond the usual hype, you should explore underrated Japan-exclusive models. These include the classic Nike Cortez “Made in Japan,” the tech-focused Nike Air Rift, and special CO.JP releases. The best way to purchase these is by using Onemall.jp to shop on Japanese secondhand marketplaces like Mercari and Yahoo! Auctions.
Everyone knows about the Travis Scott collaborations and the Off-White releases. But the world of sneakers is vast, and some of the most interesting and stylish pairs are the ones that fly under the radar. Japan has always been a place where Nike has experimented, releasing unique models and colorways that never get the global hype they deserve.
If you’re looking to stand out from the crowd and add a truly unique piece to your collection, this is your guide. Here are five underrated Nike Japan models you should be hunting for.
1. The Original Nike Cortez “Made in Japan”
Why it’s cool: The Cortez is a timeless classic, but the earliest versions from the 1970s were actually manufactured in Japan. These pairs are a piece of Nike history. They feature a slimmer silhouette, higher quality leather, and a unique vintage charm that modern retros can’t replicate. How to find it: This is a true vintage hunt. You’ll need to scour Yahoo! Japan Auctions and look for listings that specifically mention 日本製 (Made in Japan).
2. The Nike Air Rift
Why it’s cool: This strange and wonderful shoe, with its split-toe design inspired by Kenyan barefoot runners, has always been a cult favorite in Japan, especially in the fashion-forward Harajuku scene. While it has seen occasional international releases, Japan consistently gets the best and most interesting colorways. It’s the perfect anti-hype sneaker. How to find it: Search for ナイキ エア リフト on Mercari Japan. You’ll find a huge variety of colors you’ve never seen before.
3. Nike CO.JP (Concept Japan) Releases
Why it’s cool: In the early 2000s, Nike’s “CO.JP” line was a legendary series of Japan-exclusive releases that are now considered holy grails by collectors. These were often Dunk Lows and Air Force 1s in wild, creative colorways that were years ahead of their time, like the “Viotech” Dunk. How to find it: This requires some research. Look up famous CO.JP releases, and then search for them on SNKRDUNK or Yahoo! Auctions. They are a true collector’s item.
4. The Nike SFB (Special Field Boot)
Why it’s cool: While originally designed as a tactical boot, the Nike SFB has been adopted by Japanese techwear and avant-garde fashion enthusiasts. Brands like Acronym have collaborated on them, and they are often styled in a way that is uniquely Japanese. Japan often gets exclusive, city-ready colorways. How to find it: Check Mercari Japan for a wide variety of models and sizes.
5. The Nike Dunk Low “Mismatched”
Why it’s cool: Japan has a long history of “mismatched” or “What The” style sneakers. These are shoes where the left and right shoe have different color panels, creating a bold, asymmetrical look. While this trend has gone global now, Japan has been doing it for years, and you can find many older, exclusive mismatched pairs. How to find it: This is a Mercari and Yahoo! Auctions hunt. It’s all about browsing and discovering a unique pair that speaks to you.
How to Buy These Hidden Gems:
All of these underrated models are most easily found on the Japanese secondhand market. A proxy service like Onemall.jp is the essential tool that lets you access this world. You simply find the pair you want, paste the link into the Onemall.jp search bar, and they handle the entire process of buying and shipping it to you.
Forget the hype. Start a collection that is uniquely yours by exploring the deep and fascinating world of Nike Japan exclusives.