The Nike Mag, the self-lacing sneaker from the 1989 film Back to the Future Part II, became reality in 2016 when Nike produced 89 functional pairs. Auctioned exclusively to support the Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s research, individual pairs have resold for $30,000–$200,000+. They are simultaneously a piece of cinema history, charitable memorabilia and cutting-edge sneaker engineering.

Why the 2016 Nike Mag matters

Tinker Hatfield, Nike’s legendary designer, sketched the original Mag in 1989 specifically for the film. Fans begged Nike to make a real version for over two decades. In 2011 Nike released a non-lacing replica in limited numbers, but the 2016 release was the breakthrough: 89 fully functional, self-lacing pairs (in honour of the film’s 1989 release), built on Nike’s E.A.R.L. (Electro Adaptive Reactive Lacing) platform — the same technology that would later become the HyperAdapt and Adapt BB. Michael J. Fox personally received the first pair on stage.

How to authenticate

Each pair shipped with a custom Pelican case, a charging stand, USB charger, signed certificate from the Michael J. Fox Foundation, a “back to the future” branded outer carton, and a unique pair number etched into the heel. The 2016 Mag is the only Nike Mag with self-lacing functionality — earlier 2011 replicas (1,510 pairs) are visually similar but do not lace themselves. Counterfeits exist; verify the foundation certificate, the charging system, and the etched serial.

Condition and value

The lacing motors are designed to last but require occasional charging (every few months) to keep the lithium battery healthy. Failed batteries can be serviced by Nike’s Beaverton headquarters under the original program. Fully functional pairs in the original case command top dollar; pairs with non-functional lacing trade at roughly 40–60% of working examples. Sotheby’s, Stadium Goods and specialist sneaker auctioneers regularly handle resales.

Where to see one

The Universal Studios Hollywood theme park, the Petersen Automotive Museum (Los Angeles) and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History have all displayed Nike Mags. Major sneaker conventions — Sneaker Con, ComplexCon, Sole DXB — often include functional pairs in showcase exhibits.

For families and younger fans

Affordable alternatives let kids and teens connect with the legend. Nike’s HyperAdapt 1.0 (2017) and Adapt BB (2019) use the same self-lacing technology in everyday silhouettes for under $1,000. Mag-inspired LED-light children’s sneakers cost $30–$60. Pairing the shoe with a Back to the Future trilogy movie night and a discussion of the Michael J. Fox Foundation’s mission turns it into an entire family activity.

Care and storage

Self-lacing footwear is electronics, not just fashion. Store in the original case with charging stand at moderate temperature (15–25°C) and humidity. Charge fully every 2–3 months even if unused. Avoid extreme cold (below 0°C), which damages lithium batteries permanently. Sole rot — a known issue with polyurethane midsoles from the 2010s — affects Nike Mags too; periodic gentle flexing keeps the foam from crystallising.

Read next

Explore the broader Tinker Hatfield archive: the Air Jordan III, Air Max 1, Air Trainer 1 and the Air Mag’s spiritual successor, the HyperAdapt.

About This collectible

The Nike Mag (Back to the Future, Self-Lacing 2016) is a notable entry in the collectible category. Whether you are a seasoned collector or evaluating your first piece, understanding provenance, condition, and market context is essential for confident decisions. This guide summarizes what makes this item collectible and how to evaluate examples in the market.

Identification & Authentication

Authenticating a Nike Mag (Back to the Future, Self-Lacing 2016) requires attention to period-correct materials, manufacturing marks, signatures, and chain of custody documentation. Where third-party authentication exists (PSA, JSA, Beckett, SGC, PCGS, NGC, or category-specific authenticators), graded examples carry significant premium over raw pieces. Consult a recognized authenticator before high-value purchases.

Valuation & Market Pricing

Values for the Nike Mag (Back to the Future, Self-Lacing 2016) vary by condition, provenance, completeness, and demand. Track recent sold prices on major venues including Heritage Auctions, Goldin, Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and eBay completed listings to benchmark fair market value. Realized sales reflect true value; asking prices do not.

Condition & Grading

Condition is the largest variable affecting value. Use the grading scale appropriate to the category and document defects honestly. For graded items, verify certification numbers on the grader’s website. For raw items, photograph all surfaces under neutral lighting and disclose any restoration or imperfections.

Where to Buy & Sell

Reputable venues include major auction houses, established dealer networks, specialty shows, and vetted online marketplaces. Avoid private cash transactions with unknown parties for high-value pieces. Use buyer protection or escrow when transacting at scale.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Nike Mag (Back to the Future, Self-Lacing 2016) is authentic?

Authenticity is best confirmed by a recognized third-party authenticator. Visual inspection alone is rarely sufficient for high-value pieces.

What is a Nike Mag (Back to the Future, Self-Lacing 2016) worth?

Value depends on condition, provenance, and completeness. Check recent sold prices on major auction venues for comparable examples.

Where should I sell my Nike Mag (Back to the Future, Self-Lacing 2016)?

For high-value pieces, established auction houses with category expertise typically deliver the best results. For mid-market items, vetted online marketplaces or dealer networks balance reach and fees.

Does grading add value?

For most categories, third-party grading adds meaningful value to top-condition examples. For lower-grade pieces, the grading fee can exceed the value uplift.