Nike Brings Back Gary Payton's Iconic 'The Glove'

One of Nike Basketball's most distinctive silhouettes is making its long-awaited return. The Nike Air Zoom Flight '98 'The Glove' is back for Summer 2026, staying remarkably faithful to the original shoe that became synonymous with NBA Hall of Famer Gary Payton during the peak of his career.

Official images confirm that Nike has preserved nearly every signature detail. The iconic black-and-white colorway returns alongside the model's unmistakable zippered neoprene shroud, which conceals the lacing system beneath its sleek exterior. Hidden underneath sits the innovative "Monkey Paw" support structure, while the sculpted midsole and aggressive, streamlined profile remain true to the original design.

Rather than modernizing the silhouette, Nike has embraced what made the Air Zoom Flight '98 so memorable. During an era when Nike Basketball wasn't afraid to experiment, 'The Glove' stood apart with its futuristic construction and enclosed fit. Even decades later, the zip-up design continues to look unlike almost anything else on the market.

The sneaker earned its nickname through Gary Payton, whose relentless defensive play made him one of the greatest point guards in NBA history. Known as "The Glove" for his ability to completely shut down opposing players, Payton's nickname perfectly matched the shoe's snug, wrapped construction, creating one of basketball's most natural athlete-sneaker pairings.

While it never evolved into a massive signature franchise, the Air Zoom Flight '98 carved out a lasting place in sneaker culture. Collectors continue to celebrate its bold design language, innovative construction, and unmistakable silhouette that helped define Nike Basketball's experimental late-1990s era.

For longtime fans, the return offers another chance to own one of the brand's most unique performance classics, preserving a design that remains every bit as daring today as it was nearly three decades ago. The Nike Air Zoom Flight '98 'The Glove' releases on July 31, 2026, for $170 USD.