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Nike1996 – 2003 · retros 2018 & 2026Releasing in 2026

The Glove / Air Zoom GP

Gary Payton · Active Retro Moment

A sneaker with a zippered shroud that turns the whole shoe into a glove — one of Nike's most inventive designs ever, returning in 2026.

The Legend

'The Glove' — trash-talking lockdown defense and lefty flair for the Sonics, with a shoe built literally around his nickname.


1996 Defensive Player of the Year9× All-Defensive First Team9× All-StarHall of Fame 2013

The Story

Nike designed the Air Zoom Flight '98 as a pun you could wear: a zip-up shroud that encases the foot the way Payton's defense encased point guards. It remains one of the most conceptually pure signature shoes ever made, and it returns twice in 2026 — the OG black/white in the fall and a 'Royal' colorway for the holidays.

Line File
Signature LineThe Glove / Air Zoom GP
BrandNike
Iconic ModelAir Zoom Flight '98 'The Glove'
Years1996 – 2003 · retros 2018 & 2026
2026 StatusActive Retro Moment
2026 ReleasesThe Glove OG 'Black/White' — Fall 2026 · The Glove 'Royal' — Holiday 2026

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