Nike TC 7900

TC 7900

The early 2020s saw a revival of sporting footwear from the early 2000s, with old designs reimagined and new lifestyle silhouettes created. One such model from the beginning of the decade is the Nike TC 7900, whose chunky look and functional design make it a stylish representation of Y2K-era running shoes.

The TC 7900 features a base layer of soft tumbled leather across its upper, with both real and synthetic leather panelling adding a durable feel and a dynamic look to the toe. Breathable mesh covers the padded tongue and the more rigid heel, which serves to support and protect the back of the foot. A textile strap on the forefoot provides a loop to secure the lower part of the laces, while two more adorn the flanks, passing beneath the Swooshes for a distinctive look. These sidewall logos are made from reflective materials so that they stand out in low-light conditions, and they meet at the rubber heel tab. Another Swoosh is displayed here alongside a set of etched coordinates marking a location in central Beaverton – the home of Nike’s headquarters. A Nike-branded pull tab on the tongue combines with a plain one on the heel, facilitating easy on and off.

The chunky sole unit provides a solid base for the Nike TC 7900. Filled with shock-absorbing foam, the stacked midsole is soft and comfortable, while its contoured profile gives the shoe a lively aesthetic. The rubber outsole is split across the forefoot and heel, offering reliable traction through a series of large grip pads that taper towards the front. Miniature Swooshes appear on the toe, heel and midfoot to complement the diminutive one on the lateral forefoot overlay.

To boost the release of the TC 7900 in early 2021, Nike teamed up with 3M to produce a design covered in the American brand’s trademark materials, including Scotchlite reflective elements and warming Thinsulate fabrics. Since then, collections of this bold yet elegant lifestyle sneaker have been released each year, featuring new colourways rooted in a sporty, Y2K aesthetic with gracefully balanced tones for an effortlessly stylish look.