Sneakers have long surpassed the status of simple sports footwear. Today they are collectibles, investments, and cultural symbols. International auctions bring to light spectacular stories and prices reaching millions of dollars for pairs worn in legendary games or prototypes that changed history.
We have selected 7 of the most expensive sneakers ever sold, each with its own unique story and moment. See the full list below.
7. Air Jordan 1 “Broken Foot” (422.130 USD, 2022)
These sneakers were worn in 1985 when Michael Jordan broke his foot. Kept in good condition, they sold for 422,130 USD at the beginning of 2022. A rare piece of basketball and sneaker culture history.
6. Nike “Moon Shoe” Prototype (437.500 USD, 2019)
Created for the 1972 Olympic Games, the Nike “Moon Shoe” is one of Nike’s earliest prototypes. A pair was sold in 2019 for 437,500 USD, confirming its historical significance.
5. Air Jordan 1 "Rookie Season" (560.000 USD, 2020)
An Air Jordan 1 worn during his rookie season and signed by MJ was sold in May 2020 for 560,000 USD. It exceeded all expectations and marked the beginning of an era in which sneakers became investments.
4. Air Jordan 12 “Flu Game” (1,38 mil USD, 2023)
Worn by Jordan in the famous 1997 game when he played while sick, these AJ12s were sold at auction for 1.38 million USD. The “Flu Game” entered legend and the history of sneaker auctions.
3. Nike Air Yeezy 1 “Grammy” Prototype (1,8 mil USD, 2021)
The prototype worn by Kanye West at the 2008 Grammy Awards forever changed the perception of sneakers as collectible items. Sold in 2021 for 1.8 million USD, it remains the most expensive Yeezy in history.
2. Air Jordan 13 “The Last Dance” (2,238 mil USD, 2023)
These sneakers were worn by Jordan in the 1998 NBA Finals, nicknamed the "Last Dance". Auctioned during April 2023, they sold for 2.238 million dollars, once again confirming MJ’s legendary aura.
1. Air Jordan Dynasty Collection (8 mil USD, 2024)
A set of six pairs of Air Jordans worn by Michael Jordan in the decisive games of his six NBA titles. The collection was sold at Sotheby’s for 8 million dollars, setting an all-time record. It’s more than just footwear, it’s a fragment of sports history.
From the records set by Michael Jordan to Kanye West’s impact with the Yeezy prototype, sneakers have become cultural symbols and multi-million-dollar investments. Every pair on this list tells a story: of legendary games, pop culture moments, or beginnings that changed history. Sneaker culture is no longer just about style, but also about historical and emotional value.
