The History of the Nike Air Max 1
Legendary designer Tinker Hatfield actually had an architectural background before he started designing shoes for Nike, and he drew a lot of inspiration from buildings to create his designs.
The Air Max 1 is one such design, as it was the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris that served as inspiration for this iconic model. The ‘inside out’ building sparked Hatfield’s imagination, resulting in the visible air unit in the AM1.
While Air Cushioning Technology had been used previously, the Air Tailwind being the first to incorporate this technology in 1978, it wasn’t until the Air Max 1 that the Air unit became visible.
Launched on 26 March 1987, the first Air Max 1 came in a University Red and White colour scheme on mesh and suede – ‘Sport Red’ is considered the OG colorway of the model.
Nike also released their very first TV ad for this release, featuring the Beatles’ song ‘Revolution’.
Nike Air Max 1: Answering Your Questions
When did the Nike Air Max 1 come onto the market?
The Nike Air Max 1, which was alternatively called Nike Air Max '87 at the time, was launched in 1987, on 26 March to be precise, as the first flagship of the Air Max family.
Who designed the Air Max 1?
The Air Max 1 was designed by iconic designer Tinker Hatfield aka 'The Architect'. He is also the creative mind behind many Jordan models and the Nike Air Mag designed for the movie "Back to the Future".
What is the Nike Air Max 1 inspired by?
Hatfield drew inspiration for the design of the Nike Air Max 1 from a trip to France. As he himself was a trained architect and was of course also interested in the architecture of buildings in his private life, it was obvious that his inspiration for the first sneaker with a visible air unit would originate there.
The world-famous Centre Pompidou in Paris is an architectural masterpiece where the inner workings of the cultural centre are externalised. And so Tinker Hatfield also made the previous inner workings of the Midsole, namely the Air unit, visible from the outside.
Can you run in Air Max 1?
While the original Air Max 1 was designed as a running shoe, in modern times it has been repurposed as more of a lifestyle sneaker. It has a heavy build with limited flexibility, and its cushioning is firm, not as soft or responsive as other running sneakers on the market. It's ideal for casual wear and light activity, but not serious running.
How does the Air Max 1 fit?
The Air Max 1 fits true to size. However, it also has a rather narrow cut. It could cause discomfort with extremely wide feet, so size up half to a whole size if this affects you.
How do you style the Nike Air Max 1?
The Air Max 1 has a versatile look that goes well with different outfits. For inspiration on styling the model, check out our article here (or our article here for WMNS)!
How do you tie the Nike Air Max 1?
For guidance on tying your AM1 laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!
How to tell if Nike Air Max 1 are fake?
You don't recognise fake Air Max 1 by one fixed indicator. In fact, it is a combination of indicators that vary from pair to pair. However, you can use these indicators to virtually determine whether a pair of AM1 are genuine:
Material and colour, stitching, smell (fakes might have a strong chemical odour), weight (fakes tend to be lighter than the real thing), placement of the Swoosh, shape of the heel, discrepancies on the tongue, nose, insole and outsole, errors on the size label, incorrect product code (SKU), flimsy or faded packaging, lack of or discrepancies in accessories and, finally, judging prices and sellers.
How do you clean Nike Air Max 1?
An Air Max 1 should be cleaned by hand. For the best results, remove the laces, then use a toothbrush to remove obvious dirt from the surface. Mix a mild detergent with some water and use a sponge or cloth to gently scrub harder stains, or for suede, use a suede brush (water can damage suede). Use a damp cloth to wipe off the residue, then let them air-dry.
For a smelly sneaker, you can sprinkle baking soda inside the shoe, then leave overnight. The powder will absorb moisture and neutralise the smell. Shake out the excess before wearing again. Alternatively, you can use silica gel or activated charcoal bags for the same results.
Laces can be cleaned with a mild detergent and rinsed afterwards, or you can put white laces in a 1:5 bleach and water solution for a few minutes and then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
In addition, we do not recommend putting your shoes in the washing machine. Sneakers made of leather and suede can come out damaged. With shoes made of canvas or cotton, the risk is less, but the chance of damaged sneakers remains. So we recommend always washing your sneakers by hand. If you do put them in the washing machine, then place the shoes in an old pillowcase beforehand.
Where can I buy Nike Air Max 1?
Do you have your eye on this model? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse the Nike Air Max 1 at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on AM1 restocks and new releases!
Notable Collaborations on the Nike Air Max 1
Air Max 1 x atmos
No strangers to working together, atmos and Nike have released many collaborations, and the Air Max 1 model has been given some iconic makeovers by the Japanese brand. In 2003, they released one of the first ever collaborations on the Air Max 1 model, the ‘Viotech’. Later, in 2006, they started with the first of numerous colorways featuring animal print, with the Nike Air Max 1 x Atmos ‘Animal’. In 2018 the sneaker got an updated release in the ‘Animal 2.0’.
In 2007, they applied the popular elephant print from the Air Jordan 3 to the model, and it was a huge hit. In 2016, on Nike Air Max Day, fans were given the opportunity to vote for the return of an Air Max design that would make a comeback the following year. Almost unanimously, the atmos x Nike Air Max 1 ‘Elephant’ was crowned the winner, proving its immense popularity.
Air Max 1 x Parra
Designed in 2005, the Parra x Nike Air Max 1 ‘Amsterdam’ is considered a holy grail in the sneaker world, and resell prices range in the thousands for the model. Only 200-250 pairs were produced, making it very exclusive.
Dutch Artist Pieter Hanssen, better known as (Piet) Parra, is recognised for his distinctive style of red and blue tones and graphic figures in his artwork.
Using the infamous Red-Light District of Amsterdam as the inspiration behind his collaboration on the Air Max 1, he applied striking red tones to the brown-based colorway and added bright blue accents to stand in for the lights of the district.
Air Max 1 x Patta
In 2010, Parra joined up with Dutch sneaker boutique Patta to release another stunning Air Max 1, this time in a ‘Cherrywood’ colorway. Another holy grail for many people, the sneaker celebrated the 5th anniversary of Patta’s first store in Amsterdam, and only 300 pairs were released.
Coming in a burgundy colorway, it was the little details that made the sneaker special: light blue accents can be found on the lacetips, and the Parra logo on the tongue. Graphics on the insoles reflected Parra’s unique style, while the sneaker was rounded off with a sharp white midsole and multi-coloured outsole.
In 2021, Patta went on to release their own number of collaborations on the Air Max 1 with Nike, resulting in the incredibly popular ‘Patta Waves’ line-up.
First released in the orange colorway ‘Monarch’, the ‘Noise Aqua’, ‘Rush Maroon’ and ‘Black’ soon followed. Wavy mudguards were applied to the silhouette in a unique design twist, and Patta branding was seen on the tongue.
Air Max 1 x Denham
Amsterdam-based denim brand Denham released just 6,800 pieces of the Nike Air Max 1 x Denham ‘Blue Void’ in 2020, making it an extremely exclusive drop.
Combining the classic Air Max 1 silhouette with Japanese denim, the upper features Kaku Tsunagi Sashiko stitches, indigo plaid denim, and an indigo blue herringbone pattern made by Nihon Menpu Japan, as well as light brown nubuck and indigo blue suede.
Air Max 1 x CLOT
Re-released in 2021, the CLOT x Nike Air Max 1 ‘Kiss of Death’ had a unique design that was inspired by Chinese Philosophy. Hong Kong based fashion label CLOT released the original in 2006 to celebrate the opening of China’s first ACU sneaker shop.
The transparent sole showcased the pressure points of the foot, which are believed to be connected to the whole body by a spiritual force, or ‘Qi’. The neutral beige suede base was then accented with bright oranges and reds, and the insole decorated with a list of Chinese characters.
Air Max 1 x Travis Scott
One of the most sought-after collaborations in the sneaker world is the partnership between Travis Scott and Nike. With an Air Jordan 1, Air Jordan 6, Nike Dunk, Air Force 1 and Air Max 270 already under their belt, it was time for the Air Max 1 to receive a special colorway.
The ‘Saturn Gold’ and ‘Baroque Brown’ were released in 2022, delayed from their original release date due to the unfortunate tragedy that happened at Travis’ show at the Astroworld Festival in 2021.
With flipped Swooshes and a mountaineer-inspired design, the unique Air Max 1s featured roped laces and patterned webbing on a mesh, leather and suede base.
Air Max 1 x Concepts
US-based clothing store Concepts collaborated on three Air Max 1s in 2022 that proved massively popular. The ‘Far Out’, ‘Mellow’ and ‘Heavy’ all featured an eclectic mix of colours and materials on their uppers, honouring the radical youth style from the late 60s.
Paisley, animal, tribal and acid-washed prints were interspersed with denim, corduroy and faux-fur materials on lightly speckled midsoles for a truly wild mix.
Nike Air Max 1 Variations
Over the years, the classic design of the Nike Air Max 1 has been joined by a number of special variations and different versions.
Air Max 1 PRM
Made from higher-end materials like suede, leather, or other textiles, the Air Max 1 PRM (or Premium) often has more detailed craftsmanship than the standard model.
The PRM is normally released in special colorways, with unique details and features.
Air Max 1 SC
'SC' stands for 'Special Construction', which the Air Max 1 SC certainly has.
The AM1 SC use unique materials or incorporate unique design elements that are different from the standard model. They are also sometimes released as regional exclusives or limited editions.
Air Max 1 Golf
Modified to be a golf shoe, the AM1 Golf features a grippier outsole for traction on the course.
It maintains the classic Air Max 1 silhouette, but uses weather-resistant materials for extra resistance against the elements.
Popular Nike Air Max 1 Colorways
Nike have released many successful colorways on the Air Max 1, and these are some of the most popular and all-time favourites.
Nike Air Max 1 Premium Retro 'Curry' | 908366-700
The Nike Air Max 1 PRM ‘Curry’ has been a collector's favourite for almost two decades due to its highly wearable colorway.
In 2018, the colorway relaunched with enormous success and was accompanied by two brand new colorways named 'Red Curry' and 'Green Curry'.
Nike Air Max 1 ‘Evolution of Icons’ | CW6541-100
On Nike Air Max Day 2021, the brand released the ‘Evolution of Icons’ which utilised different OG models in its design. Therefore, the sneaker features many different colours and materials in its make-up.
For example, parts of the Air Max 1 'University Red', Air Max 95 'Neon', Air Max 96 'Scream Green' and the Air Max 97 'Metallic Silver' can be seen in the sneaker.
Patta x Nike Air Max 1 SP 'Chlorophyll' | HF1012-300
Patta celebrated its 5th anniversary in 2009 with a special pair of sneakers covered in 'Chlorophyll' denim, and the popular colorway made its return in 2024 with a fresh version.
While the sneaker retains its classic Air Max 1 silhouette, premium materials enhance its wide appeal, with Patta's unique touches adding additional flair.
Nike Air Max 1 Corduroy 'Baltic Blue' | FB8915-400
The 'Baltic Blue' stands out with its unique material choice and striking colour. The upper is constructed entirely of corduroy for a textured look.
Subtle accents enhance the dominating Baltic Blue hue, including a beige Swoosh and tongue label. This contemporary take on the model was well received by the community.
Nike Air Max 1 OG 'Anniversary Orange' | DC1454-101
Celebrating the legacy of the model, the 'Anniversary Orange' brings back one of the OG colorways.
The vibrant orange suede overlays and fresh white mesh base stay true to the original design, and pays homage to the sneaker's rich history.
Nike Air Max 1 '86 OG 'University Red' | DQ3989-100
The 'University Red', otherwise known as the 'Big Bubble', brings back the original design on the model that made Nike the iconic brand it is today - a white mesh base, grey suede overlays and a University Red suede mudguard.
The element that makes this shoe truly authentic is the enlarged air bubble which at the time was a manufacturing mistake, thus the newer models featured a significantly smaller one.
Nike Air Max 1 'Crepe Hemp' | FD5088-200
Offering a unique blend of materials and colours, the 'Crepe Hemp' re-released in 2022 with slight differences in design than the original '04 version.
The crepe outsole is true to the original, however the material on the toebox has been replaced for more durability, with a dark brown suede mudguard and earthy leather overlays.
Nike Air Max 1 Premium 'Lemonade' | CJ0609-700
The 'Lemonade' colorway of the Nike Air Max 1 is a vibrant version of the classic silhouette. It features a yellow upper with subtle graphic details, reminiscent of the original 'Powerwall' series.
The design is completed with green accents and a translucent outsole, offering a fresh aesthetic. The 'Limeade' and 'Strawberry Lemonade' are similar designs.
Nike Air Max 1 PRM 'Escape' | FJ0698-100
With Slate Blue colouring and a rugged, outdoor-inspired aesthetic, the 'Escape' combines earthy tones with durable materials including suede, leather and textile.
The intricately detailed design on the shoe's heel depicting trees shadows in black lends a distinctive touch and a subtle but eye-catching detail.
Nike Air Max 1 'Urawa' | FD9081-001
Paying homage to Japanese football team the Urawa Dragons, the 'Urawa' is a sleek colorway featuring high-quality premium suede and mesh materials.
Grey suede overlays contrast with black mesh underlays and white details, while eye-catching red and gold accents can be found on the eyestays and branding. An embroidered Urawa dragon logo can be found on the heel for a finishing touch.
Air Max Day
Air Max lovers celebrate Nike Air Max Day on 26 March every year. Nike honours the history of the model by releasing special edition sneakers, reissuing classic models, and collaborating with designers, artists and brands to create unique designs on this special day.
To read more about Nike Air Max Day, visit our dedicated page here, which covers the history of the yearly event since it started in 2014.
For more FAQs on your favourite sneaker models, visit the Sneaker FAQ page.
