Attention all Nike Air Max Fans: If you've always been interested in any kind of Air Max sneakers, you've come to the right place! Because I present you, divided into three posts, the complete Nike Air Max Timeline - from the creation until today! Be excited!
The secret of Nike Air Max success? A passion for science! Since its inception, its design has aimed to revolutionise the sneaker experience, continuously evolving Air technology in innovative ways with each new release.
To better understand the swoosh adorned shoes worn today, it is first necessary to explore the history of Air technology. That's why I'm giving you the full Nike Air Max timeline below:
'Next to the Air Jordan line, the Air Max is the most important and significant piece of sneaker culture that exists.'
Zack Schlemmer
1978 - Air Technology
In 1978, Air technology was used for the first time in a sneaker. 'Nike Air' is made of compressed air in a robust and very flexible bag, offering more flexibility and spring. And this without compromising the structure. The Air units retain their given shape, offer elasticity, lower impact and keep the sneaker tight and light to boot.
Incidentally, the revolutionary idea of adding air to a sneaker came from former NASA engineer Frank Rudy. The Air Tailwind was released in 1978 in very limited quantities for the Honolulu Marathon.
1987 - Nike Air Max 1
Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the Nike Air Max 1 was the first sneaker to offer a window to the inner workings of the sole. The lateral thinker was inspired by the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris.
Designing a sneaker that makes its Air Technology visible - that was the brilliant idea. There are now so many great Air Max 1 collaborations that it's hard to choose just one.
1988 - Air Walker Max
A similar design, yet very different. The Air Walker Max comes with a different Swoosh design, some overlays and a special entry.
1989 - Nike Air Max Light
Like the Air Max 1, but less heavy - so Nike has optimised its successful silhouette with EVA foam for a brand new feel.
1990 - Nike Air Max 90
Of the classics, the Air Max 90 is one of the most popular. Originally called the Air Max 3, the Air Max 90 completely revamped the Air Max sneaker for the new decade. Today, the Air Max 90 is still one of the most popular sneakers in the world.
1991 - Nike Air Max Classic BW
An incredibly important element to the greatness of Air Max is the fact that there are so many OG colours that are iconic today. Such is the case with the Persian Purple OG iteration of the Nike Air Max BW.
The Nike Air Max Classic BW was originally a slimmer version of the Air Max 90 with a larger Air Window. (BW=Big Window) Most recently, the Nike Air Max BW has been updated with a full length Air sole borrowed from the Air Max 97.
1991 - Nike Air Max 180
Time to get playful? The Nike Air Max 180 was the first Nike sneaker to feature Air technology on its outsole. It was in many ways a departure from the tried and tested formula of the early Air Max.
1992 - Air Max ST
Probably only known among collectors and real Air Max fans today: The Air Max ST from '92. New again: The design of the Air Window!
1993 - Nike Air Max 93
The Nike Air Max 93 was blow moulded and took the design of the Air Max 180, giving us coloured air units, sock-like fits and more air.
Did you like the blog post? Then keep an eye on our sneaker news section for the second part of the Nike Air Max Timeline! In addition, you can find more exciting information and specials on Nike's special Air Max family!
