The History of the Nike Air Max 95
The iconic Air Max 95 made its debut in 1995. But to understand the design of this sneaker, we need to take a step back to the year 1990. It was in this year that Nike appointed Sergio Lozano to design a new running shoe. He had previously worked on various training, tennis, and ACG items for the Brand.
Lozano’s goal was to create something that Nike and the rest of the world had never seen before. He also kept in mind what Tinker Hatfield always emphasised when working on other projects: “Okay, that’s a great design, but what’s the story behind it?”.
Lozano found inspiration for his first sketch on a rainy day in Beaverton, Oregon, where Nike's headquarters are located. He looked across the lake at the trees and began imagining the process of rain eroding the earth. He thought it would be interesting if the perfect product was revealed through erosion. You can seen this in the gradient on the model, which resembles the geological stripes of eroded rock walls.
He also drew inspiration from the anatomy of the human body. Shapes of human muscles and vertebrae can be found in the design. The final Air Max 95 features layered panels on the upper that resemble muscle fibres and flesh, a heel that mimics a spinal column, a midsole that reflects the spine, and lastly, nylon eyelets shaped like ribs.
On the very first colorway, Lozano wanted to minimise the appearance of dirt, mud, and wear that the shoe would inevitably acquire over time and use. That's why he used a grey gradient and black sole.
Another distinctive aspect of the shoe was the neon yellow accents. This neon ‘Volt’ colour is a nod to Nike’s racing kits, which also featured bright colours.
This colour scheme was meant to emphasise the technology and functional aspects of the model, as the original design was intended for powerful runners who demanded maximum cushioning.
Since its release, the 'Neon Volt' has become an iconic colour theme that is regularly re-used for other silhouettes.
The Air Max 95 didn't actually get its name until the late 90s. When the pair first came out, the box simply said AIR MAX. Then the 1997 boxes said either AIR MAX SC or AIR TOTAL MAX SC.
SC supposedly stood for Sports Classic, as opposed to the earlier SC on the Bo Jacksons basketball shoes, where the abbreviation was supposed to stand for Strength and Conditioning. This of course became very confusing when the Bo Jackson was released within the Sports Classic series.
The name AIR TOTAL MAX SC was then given to other premium editions and around 1999, most of the labels on the boxes read AIR MAX 95.
A Squeaky Problem
On 12 May 2000, the Air Max 95 briefly managed to cause a small uproar in the UK. It all started when a segment on British consumer rights on a TV programme called Watchdog, addressed and highlighted the problem of the shoe's squeaky Air Bubbles.
Many people who owned one of these defective pairs could confirm that a very annoying squeaking noise that was made with every step.
These 'aggrieved' owners were encouraged by the shoe report to finally let go of their frustration and so they took their shoes to a Foot Locker back in Leeds, where the situation quickly turned physical. One police officer was actually injured and eight people were arrested.
"Dozens of customers arrived at the Foot Locker store, in the St John's shopping center, on Friday clutching sneakers - of all ages - and demanding new ones. Staff refused to comply, tempers became frayed and the police were called. By noon the shopping center was closed."
The Independent
Luckily, you won't have a problem with today's Air Max 95 model!
Notable Collaborations
atmos x Nike Air Max 95
One of the most influential collaborations on the Air Max 95, and possibly one of the best colorways next to the 'Neon', the 'Viotech' was released in 2003. Japanese brand atmos added shades of brown to the upper with white contrasts and purple accents, splashes of gold adding to the regal colorway.
In 2006 the pair collaborated again, this time on the atmos x Nike Air Max 95 'Animal'. Constructed with pony hair, the sneaker was covered in tiger stripes, zebra stripes, giraffe print and leopard spots, with green laces tying the whole thing together. The colorway was so popular, atmos released a second version with Nike in 2018.
Stash x Nike Air Max 95
Brooklyn graffiti artist and graphic designer Stash originally collaborated with Nike on the Air Max 95 back in 2006, resulting in a wildly popular and highly sought-after sneaker.
In 2024, the duo marked the 30th anniversary of the model with a comeback of the scene-stealing Stash x Nike Air Max 95, which kept its unique style and creative flair with its familiar blue colorway.
Parra x Nike Air Max 95
Dutch artist Parra placed some bold colours across the Air Max 95 in 2008. The 'Running Man' was notable for its distinctive design, and unique details such as a transparent outsole. This collab has become somewhat of a grail among collectors due to its rarity and significance.
The AM95 'Running Man' was released as part of a three-pack alongside a Cortez and an Air Max 90.
Central Cee x Nike Air Max 95
In 2024, JD Sports dropped the highly anticipated Central Cee x Nike Air Max 95 'Live Yours'. This collaboration between the British rapper and Nike was an exclusive release at the retailer.
The hype around this limited edition sneaker was insane, and the website crashed within a minute of the drop. Although the date had been known, no info had been given on the exact time for the release. The sneaker went live with zero warning, leading to a mad rush for buyers.
The low-key colorway featured a black mesh base, with four layers of matte dark-grey leather curving from toe to heel. The Nike Swoosh appeared in Metallic Red Bronze, with the same colour accented on the heel. The black midsole rounded off the darker look.
A Ma Maniére x Nike Air Max 95
The A Ma Maniére x Nike Air Max 95 'Dark Violet Ore' was another stand-out collaboration on the model in 2024.
This stylish sneaker excelled in a beautiful colour palette of mauve, grey, and burgundy. The nose featured the A Ma Maniére logo, and the heel flaunted an 'A'. This recognisable logo can also be found on the insoles and outsoles. The shoe was finished with a satin grey lining on the tongue, and an elegant black midsole.
Nike Air Max 95: Answering Your Questions
Why do some people call the Nike Air Max 95 '110'?
The Air Max 95 is also known as the Air Max '110' because they used to cost £110 when they originally came out. They're now unfortunately much more expensive, retailing around £180.
Is the Nike Air Max 95 true to size?
The Air Max 95 is true to size, however if your feet are wide, you may consider ordering a half size larger.
Is the Air Max 95 comfortable?
With its additional Air Unit, the Air Max 95 definitely offers more cushioning than its predecessors. However, since the release, there have been many advancements in sneaker technology, so it is not currently the most comfortable pair on the market. Another consideration is the design of the heel's spine, which can feel a bit stiff at first and may take a few wears to become more flexible.
That being said, the sneaker will certainly keep you comfortable throughout the day. Additionally, due to its thick sole, it's the perfect shoe for people looking for a little extra height, providing an additional 1.4 centimetres of height.
Are Air Max 95 waterproof?
As the Air Max 95 are primarily constructed from mesh, suede, and synthetic overlays, they are not considered waterproof, designed more for breathability. However, versions of the Air Max 95 exist with are designed to be more waterproof, like the 'Utility' models.
Are Air Max 95 good for sports?
Technically, you can use the Air Max for sports such as basketball, running, and hiking. However, the design is more focused on style and comfort, making them less suitable for these activities compared to modern sports shoes.
How do you tie the Nike Air Max 95?
For guidance on tying your AM95 laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!
How to tell if Nike Air Max 95 are fake?
You don't recognise fake Air Max 95 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 P-6000 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 95?
An Air Max 95 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. 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 95?
Do you have your eye on this model? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse the Nike Air Max 95 at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on AM95 restocks and new releases!
Popular Nike Air Max 95 Colorways
Nike have released many successful colorways on the Air Max 95, and these are some of the most popular and all-time favourites.
Nike Air Max 95 OG 'Neon' | CT1689-001
The iconic Nike Air Max 95 OG 'Neon' has endured the test of time with its striking colour scheme, in addition to its outstanding comfort and performance attributes.
The upper features a gradient in shades of dark and light grey. The inclusion of vivid 'Volt' accents is what makes this colorway really stand out with a dynamic look.
Nike Air Max 95 'Anatomy of Air' | DM0012-600
In a nod to the original inspiration behind the model's design, the 'Anatomy of Air' features an upper reminiscent of the muscles and tendons of the human body.
The pair also includes tendon-coloured details on the eyestays, heel and collar. The off-white bone coloured outsole brings the shoe all together.
Nike Air Max 95 'Grape' | 307960-109
The 'Grape' refreshes the original 1995 design with a gradient upper in varying shades of grey, and Court Purple accents on the tongue and Swoosh.
Emerald Green highlights the Air Max units in the midsole, adding another touch of colour to the sleek colorway.
Nike Air Max 95 'Erosion' | HM0953-100
The 'Erosion' design is inspired by natural erosion processes, where elements like water, wind and ice shape the landscape.
The medial side of the shoe glows with warm, earthy tones, while the lateral side features a vibrant purple gradient, creating a striking look.
Nike Air Max 95 'Silver Bullet' | 918359-001
This distinctive sneaker draws its inspiration from the iconic Air Max 97 'Silver Bullet'. This version takes on the same metallic silver upper, with Varsity Red accents on the swoosh and tongue.
The AM95 'Silver Bullet' pays homage to Nike's rich heritage.
Nike Air Max 95 OG 'Solar Red' | AT2865-100
Another reissue of a 1995 classic, the 'Solar Red' uses familiar grey shades on the gradient upper, with vibrant Solar Red accents on the tongue, eyelets, Air unit and Swoosh.
The black outsole adds a solid foundation to the nostalgic colorway.
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