The Nike Air Max 1 has earned proper cult status over the years, and every new drop gets scrutinised to see if it lives up to the hype. After the flood of colourways last year, though, it feels like people are getting a bit harder to impress. The 'Escape' release for 2024 is no different.
With its refined autumnal colour scheme and the usual reliable comfort, it’s a solid addition to the Air Max line - but does it really wow us?
Review Nike Air Max 1 Essential 'Escape' - 2024 | FZ5808-004
At first glance, the Air Max 1 'Escape' immediately catches the eye with its autumnal colours. The brown tones, paired with subtle orange accents, create a warm, seasonal vibe. The mix of suede and mesh gives the shoe a premium feel, while the speckled outsole adds an unexpected twist.
Comfort as you'd expect from an Air Max 1
Like many of its predecessors, this Nike Air Max 1 delivers the comfort you'd expect from the Air Max line. I went with my usual size, and I quickly realised the comfort doesn’t disappoint. The soft cushioning that the Air Max 1 is known for is spot on in this version as well. The feel of the shoe while wearing it is familiar and comfy. No surprises here - and that's a good thing.
The Nike Air Max 1 'Escape' look is all about fall vibes
The official colorway is Light Bone/Flax/British Tan/Black. The upper combines a mix of materials and colours. The light grey suede overlays pair nicely with the dark brown mudguard, creating a classic autumn look in both materials and colours. The orange accents on the heel and tongue add that extra bit of flair without being overpowering.
If you're after a clean colorway, you can't really go wrong with this version.
It’s mainly the details that give the Air Max 1 that little something extra. Along with the orange accents, the speckled outsole really caught my eye. This outsole comes from Nike’s Grind technology, which uses recycled materials. I found it interesting how this tech contributes to the look of the sneaker, and luckily, it’s not too in-your-face like on some other models.
The Nike Air Max 1 Essential 'Escape' dropped on 1st October 2024 and later became available at various retailers for €149.99. You can order it from Nike, with free shipping in most regions, which is definitely a plus.
The final word
If you’re looking for a reliable Air Max 1 with an autumn twist, the 'Escape' is a solid choice. The colorway is calm and versatile, though maybe not the most exciting we’ve seen. The orange accents and speckled sole add a nice touch, but it still keeps things simple.
