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FAQ + live marketNostalgic ClassicUpdated 2026-03-11
Nike Terminator High
An 80s basketball high-top with Georgetown heritage and a Comme des Garçons co-sign that delivers retro charm and sturdy build, limited by a stiff break-in and bulky proportions.
Guide Score
80/100
Very Good- Comfort & fit30%
- Style & versatility25%
- Value20%
- Durability & quality15%
- Sentiment10%
- Confidence
- Medium
- Lens
- Lifestyle
- Sizing
- True to size
- Width
- Standard fit
- Dress code
- Casual
- Cushioning
- Air Sole
Key facts
- Popularity: Cult following, periodic retros maintain interest
- Comfort: Sturdy but stiff, needs break-in period
- Fit: Similar to Air Jordan 1, generally TTS
- Value: Fair for a premium leather retro
- Use case: Retro styling, college basketball nostalgia, fashion
- Risk: Bulky proportions and stiff break-in period
Shoe intelligence
Comfort 6/10Durability 6/10True to sizeBreak-in neededAir SoleEveryday
Full breakdown
The Nike Terminator High is a retro basketball shoe first released in 1985, originally designed for the Georgetown Hoyas college basketball team. It features a high-top leather construction, thick padding, bold color blocking, and oversized NIKE heel branding. It has maintained cult following through periodic retros and a notable Comme des Garcons collaboration.
FAQ
What is the Nike Terminator High?
It is a 1985 basketball shoe originally made for Georgetown University, predating many of Nike's more famous basketball silhouettes. It features classic 80s high-top construction with color-blocked leather panels and the distinctive big NIKE branding on the heel.
How does the Terminator compare to the Air Jordan 1?
The silhouettes share the same era and similar construction. The Jordan 1 has vastly more cultural significance and resale value. The Terminator offers a similar aesthetic with less hype and generally easier availability at retail.
Is the Terminator High comfortable?
It needs a break-in period as the thick leather is stiff initially. Once broken in, it provides decent comfort for casual wear. It does not have modern cushioning technology, so extended walking comfort is limited compared to newer shoes.
Does the Terminator High run true to size?
Most wearers find it fits similar to the Air Jordan 1 — generally true to size with a traditional high-top fit. The thick padding provides secure lockdown around the ankle.
Sources & methodology
This page mixes guide writing with current store data.
The guide text links specific claims directly to these pages.