Nike Air Zoom Flight ’98 “The Glove” Officially Returns

Some shoes don't need a flashy makeover to send the sneaker community into a frenzy the moment they resurface. The Nike Air Zoom Flight ’98, forever tied to the nickname “The Glove,” is exactly that kind of shoe. After more than a decade off shelves since its last retro run in 2014, this model is about to make its official comeback.

A Legacy Built Around Gary Payton

First released in 1998, this shoe is deeply tied to the peak years of Gary Payton's career with the Seattle SuperSonics. Payton was known for his relentless, lockdown defense, and the nickname “The Glove” came directly from the way he stuck to opponents like his hand was glued to the ball. What's striking is that the shoe's design mirrors that same philosophy. A zip-up neoprene shroud wraps the entire foot, concealing the internal lacing system underneath and creating the sensation of slipping on an actual glove.

The Tech Behind the Bold Look

This era was when Nike Basketball wasn't afraid to experiment with unconventional silhouettes, and the Flight ’98 stands as clear proof of that mindset. Underneath the shroud sits a support structure called the Monkey Paw, shaped like five fingers to lock down the heel. On the cushioning side, Nike built in Zoom Air units along with a carbon fiber plate at the midfoot, delivering a light, responsive feel suited to Payton's quick, defensive-minded game.

Nike Air Zoom Flight '98 "The Glove"

Style CodeIV6206-010

Release DateJul 31, 2026

Retail Price$170

An OG Colorway, Kept Faithful

The new release stays almost entirely true to the original, keeping the black neoprene upper, contrasting white Swoosh, and the signature university red sole details intact.