This article explores path models of innovation and introduces the central concepts of path dependence and path creation. It focuses on seminal works by Paul David, Brian Arthur, and Raghu Garud and Peter Karnøe, which serve as cornerstones of a diverse debate surrounding path models. The concept of path dependence offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics of innovation processes and highlights the interplay among historical contingency, technological change, and social factors. It focuses on phases of technology diffusion and is derived from both highly formalized models (Arthur) and historically reconstructive work (David). The path creation perspective (Garud and Karnøe) highlights the role of (distributed) agency in innovation processes and emphasizes the early phases of technology development. These concepts are introduced alongside criticisms of the approaches. Prominent examples of studies are presented to illustrate the conceptual arguments. In addition, the article also discusses methodological, conceptual, and theoretical development attempts, which may be enriching further sociological research on innovation paths.