Nike Backboard 2 Mid “Sample Not For Sale” Gray Orange Red White Men’s Size 9

Very clean and gently used

If you're a Nike sneaker collector, you know that sample pairs are some of the most sought-after sneakers in the game. Unlike general release sneakers, sample pairs are extremely limited in production and distribution, making them incredibly rare. But what makes sneaker samples different from general release pairs? Not only are they rare, but sample styles also feature subtle (and sometimes not-so-subtle) differences from the versions that end up in stores, making sneaker samples highly coveted by collectors.

Prior to a sneaker's official launch, Nike distributes promotional samples to key partners and salespeople. These sneaker samples are created exclusively for promotional purposes and are not available for purchase by the general public, making them a highly sought-after pair among collectors. In addition to external distribution, these promo samples are also distributed internally for special collaborations with designers, athletes, and other prominent figures in the industry.

Nike's collaborations with athletes, musicians, and designers are highly anticipated events in the sneaker world, and the resulting exclusive sneakers are often coveted by collectors and enthusiasts alike. Among these collaborations, Nike produces Friends and Family editions, special editions that are only gifted to friends and family of the collaborator and brand employees closely involved in the project. These coveted Friends and Family editions, not intended for public release, add to the allure of these rare sneakers and make them an ultimate flex for sneaker enthusiasts.

Unreleased samples are highly coveted by sneaker collectors due to their unique origin stories and exceptional scarcity. These rare Nike sneakers are highly sought after for their elusive nature, often kept under lock and key due to legal battles, creative differences, or other factors. Their exclusivity only adds to their prestige among sneaker enthusiasts, making them highly valued commodities in the sneaker market.