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36 Years of Air Soles

 

That the tech comes from NASA says it all… Since 87', Nike has never stopped innovating on  Air Max sneakers. Whether for the Air technology or the unconventional looks, there's always a good reason to be excited about Air Max shoes. But do you actually know how it all started?

 

History of Air Max

 

When Frank Rudy, a former NASA aeronautical engineer, brought the idea of putting air in Nike shoes, it quickly sparked a revolution in the footwear industry. Nike Air technology involves pressurized air inside a tough yet flexible bag, providing greater flexibility and springiness without compromising structure. The Air-Sole units retain their shape through elasticity, reduce impact, and keep the shoes snug and lightweight. First introduced in the Air Tailwind model in 1978, this pioneering cushioning makes Nike Air shoes ideal for running.

A decade later, Nike released one of today's favorite franchises: the Air Max. Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the Nike Air Max 1 was the first sneaker to feature visible Air technology. Following its success, the Air Max 90 soon became a new street icon. This shoe was packed with extra air in the heel and featured a technical design with variable-width forefoot eyelets, bringing a fresh style to the sneaker game.

As Air technology continued to evolve with outstanding designs, Nike introduced the new Air Max 95 in 1995. First launched in a grey/neon colorway, the 95 was the first Air Max to showcase visible air in both the forefoot and heel. Designed by Sergio Lozano, the 95 was also the first to feature a black midsole in contrast to the white midsole of its predecessors. Lozano’s design had a smaller Swoosh compared to the prominently placed logos on previous Air Max trainers.

It wasn't until 1998 that Nike dropped one of the most head-turning looks ever, the Air Max Plus. Commonly known as Nike TN, this sneaker was designed by Sean McDowell in Florida. Inspired by the gradient sunset colors of the beach, palm trees, and whale’s tails, the designer sketched a model that would ironically prove most popular in gloomy London. After joining Nike, McDowell was asked to create a shoe exclusively for Foot Locker. The designer and Nike wanted to test kids’ reactions to the model, so they put the new shoe on the shelf at a Foot Locker store right when the kids were getting out of school, and watched. The result was loud and clear: Nike TN was a hit.

Air Max isn't just a pair of ordinary trainers; it's a funky piece of history that has brought people together in various exciting areas, from sports and art to streetwear, music, and beyond!

The franchise has remained popular throughout the 21st century. In 2014, to the delight of sneakerheads worldwide, Nike launched an annual celebration of its most appreciated line of footwear and called it Air Max Day.

 

All You Need to Know About Air Max Day

 

What is Air Max Day?

Year after year, Nike never fails to inspire the hype, and Air Max Day is THE event to mark in your calendar. It's the perfect occasion for collectors to showcase their love for Air Max and show off their favorite kicks.

For example, Air Max Day 2017 featured Nike's "Vote Forward" campaign, which enlisted twelve designers from around the world, referred to as "RevolutionAirs." The task given to them was to create their own unique Air Max trainer. As a result of the votes from the community, the iconic Sean Wotherspoon x Nike Air Max 1/97 was released in 2018.

In addition to the highly anticipated limited-edition releases on Air Max Day, the community members who genuinely appreciate the Nike brand are equally important. Nike recognizes and celebrates individuals, whether they are artists, influencers, or simply dedicated Nike sneaker collectors. Air Max Day is an inclusive event that welcomes everyone.

When is Air Max Day?

Every year, March 26th marks Air Max Day, which coincides with the release date of Nike Air Max 1 in 1987. On Air Max Day, we're in for a treat with special drops happening throughout the day! And leading up to the big event, there's a whole week of exciting activities that celebrate the Nike community.

What’s Happening on Air Max Day 2023?

As fans hold their breath for Air Max Day 2023, eagerly anticipating and speculating, Nike is gearing up for the release of a new model: the Air Max Pulse.

Although it incorporates some recognizable elements, the Nike Air Max Pulse features a distinct heel bubble (resembling the Air Max 270) combined with a newly crafted upper and midsole design. According to reports, the Air Max unit in the heel uses a point-loaded system for targeted weight distribution. Noteworthy features of the model include a textile wrapping on the back half of the midsole, a soft forefoot foam, engineered mesh construction, and a reflective accent on the back tab. The design introduces new Air Max branding, visible on the heel area.

If you’re wondering what’s happening on Air Max Day 2023 at Foot Locker, here’s what we’ve got!

On our shelves this year, you can discover the sizzling Air Max Plus Rainbow. This blazing interpretation of the Air Max Plus exhibits an eye-catching gradient splendor that is sure to turn heads. Its Nike Air technology provides exceptional cushioning and stability, while the upper gradually transitions from Gold to Raspberry Red, reminiscent of the iconic '90s style. Inspired by a whale's tail, the midsole's prominent arch and the plastic cage on the upper, evocative of palm trees and ocean waves, contribute to the shoe's dynamic appearance. However, don't be misled - this sneaker is all about its fiery flair.

In addition to the Tn Rainbow, you’ll find a diverse assortment of Air Max TW sneakers, ranging from the one with classic ‘90s look to the one with cool bubbles of Air, the eye-catching Next Nature, and the bright SE. And that's not all - the Nike Air Max 90 Futura will also be available, along with many other Air Max trainers.

So mark your calendars and get ready to rock your favorite pair of Air Max. It's time to join the global celebration and show off your love for the brand that has been revolutionizing footwear for decades! Check out our collection of Nike Air Max sneakers for men, women, and kids.

 

Air Max Recrafted for The Future

 

As a true innovator, Nike continues to bring groundbreaking ideas to life. Aiming for a more sustainable tomorrow, the brand is leading the future of green design by creating trainers that last longer and choosing materials with a reduced impact. Some recent Air Max drops, such as the Tuned 1 Essential Recycled Felt, the Air Max 90 Terrascape, the Nike Air Max Dawn, and the Air Max Plus Terrascape, are made with at least 20% recycled material by weight and using speckles in the rubber outsole from Nike Grind, which is recycled waste from the footwear manufacturing process. Learn more about how Nike is significantly reducing its emissions here.