Deion Sanders’ Nike Sneaker Release Sparks Falcons vs. 49ers Debate

ATLANTA, Ga. — A retro sneaker release has reignited a heated debate among football fans: Are Deion Sanders‘ iconic Nike Air Diamond Turf sneakers inspired by his time with the Atlanta Falcons or the San Francisco 49ers? The shoes, set to drop on January 24, 2025, in the “Fire Red and Metallic Gold” colorway, have sparked a frenzy among fans and sneaker enthusiasts alike.

The Nike Air Diamond Turf, first debuted by Sanders during his tenure with the Falcons in the early 1990s, is making a comeback with a “street-ready refresh.” However, the colorway’s red and gold accents have led to confusion, as they also align with the 49ers’ team colors. Sanders played for the Falcons from 1989 to 1993 before joining the 49ers for the 1994 season, where he won a Super Bowl.

Fans have taken to social media to dissect old photos of Sanders wearing the sneakers with both teams, comparing uniform colors and debating which franchise the design truly represents. Retailers and media outlets have further fueled the controversy, with some labeling the release as the “Falcons” colorway and others as the “49ers” edition.

Nike’s product description avoids naming any specific team, instead focusing on the design’s features, including Air units in the heel and forefoot, durable leather, and a midfoot strap for a secure fit. The brand simply states, “And that colorway? Same as the original.”

The sneakers, priced at $150, will be available on Nike’s SNKRS app and at select retailers, including Sneaker Politics and Finish Line. The release coincides with the NFL’s Conference Championship weekend, adding to the hype.

Deion Sanders, a Hall of Famer who excelled in both the NFL and MLB, has long been a cultural icon in sports and fashion. His partnership with Nike, which began in the mid-1990s, has produced some of the most memorable sneakers in sports history. The Air Diamond Turf is the first in a five-stage signature line with Nike, and its return marks a significant moment for both Sanders and sneaker culture.

While the debate over the sneakers’ inspiration continues, one thing is certain: the release has brought Sanders’ legendary career back into the spotlight. As Nike hinted in an Instagram post highlighting Sanders’ time with the Falcons and Braves, this may just be the beginning of more team-inspired colorways to come.