The History of the Nike Air Max Plus
Renowned designer Sean McDowell was the designer of the Air Max Plus, which was released in 1998.
The signature design of this model includes wavy TPU overlays, inspired by the peaceful waving of palm trees. McDowell found his inspiration while on holiday in Florida, where he saw these trees “dancing in the wind”. Also interesting, is that a whale fin served as inspiration for the upper of the shoe! It didn't take long for the sneaker to gain huge popularity worldwide.
The first design of the Air Max Plus was given a quarter insert to give the foot a better grip. This new Air Max was then also given the new 'Air technology'.
However, Nike then chose to incorporate a new and improved Air technology into the shoe, called ‘Tuned Air’. The Tuned Air cushioning technology consists of individual pods in the sole, which are tuned to provide specific cushioning and support for different parts of the foot.
This meant the Nike Air Max Plus is also known by Air Max TN, or Tuned Air. The re-branding of the Air Max Plus was never officially announced by Nike. Nike simply added the ‘TN’ logo to the tongue and heel of the shoe.
The model first released in two revolutionary colorways: ‘Tiger’ and ‘Hyper Blue’. Since then, there have been many updates to the model, with striking colorways and collaborations increasing the model’s popularity year and year.
Evolution of the Nike Air Max Plus
Only two years after the first release of the model, the Air Max Plus II hit the market. It introduced several design and performance updates, including a more aerodynamic upper, a larger Air unit in the forefoot, and a more prominent heel counter.
The Air Max Plus 3 followed shortly afterwards, also ditching the TPU cage for moulded TPU ridges for a fast, aggressive look. An extended TPU heel counter gave it a chunkier design, and both the forefront and heel featured larger, visible Air units.
The Nike Air Max Plus VII was released in 2005, continuing the evolution of the Air Max Plus series. It introduced a mesh base with a gradient dotted pattern, creating a more modern aesthetic. To commemorate its 20th anniversary, Nike reintroduced this model in 2025, starting with the ‘Varsity Maize’ colorway.
In 2024 the Nike Air Max Plus Drift was first released. This design gave the original Air Max Plus a new upper. A breathable mesh base was used with a curved moulded overlay that ran the entire length of the shoe. The Drift also opted for a more robust construction with palm tree-like tread accents. To further distinguish it from its ‘90s predecessor, Swooshes extend from the midfoot to the heel.
Noteworthy Collaborations on the Air Max Plus
Supreme x Nike Air Max Plus
One of the best collabs on the Nike Air Max TN was Nike's collaboration with Supreme. Two shocking colorways were released in 2020, and a white colorway was also released exclusively in Japan.
The ‘Fire Pink’ and ‘Mean Green’ offered bold takes on the silhouette. The ‘Fire Pink’ featured a vibrant pink-to-black gradient upper, with flame-like detailing in place of the traditional TPU cage. The ‘Mean Green’ echoed the design with a blue-to-green gradient and faded orange highlights.
A-COLD-WALL* x Nike Air Max Plus
After a high-profile collaboration with Converse, A-COLD-WALL* jumped back in the spotlight in 2023 with the highly anticipated A-COLD-WALL* x Nike Air Max Plus pack.
The pack included two sophisticated monochrome colours, the 'Black' and 'Platinum Tint', both with a unique look and style. Instead of the traditional mesh construction, both models were upgraded to high-quality leather.
One Block Down x Nike Air Max Plus
In 2024, One Block Down released a pack with Nike that honoured the OG colorways on the model.
In a ‘Reverse’ theme, the ‘Cold Sun’ and ‘Dry Water’ reversed the original colorways of the ‘Tiger’ and ‘Hyper Blue’. The use of airy textiles gave the sneakers a fresh, summery look, and subtle One Block Down branding details could be seen on the toe cap, tongue, outsole and insoles.
Paris Saint-Germain x Nike Air Max Plus
Soccer club Paris Saint-Germain continued its collaboration with Nike on the Nike Air Max Plus. The ‘Midnight Navy’, released in Summer 2024, featured the signature colours of the club: white, navy blue and red, with a touch of yellow gold. On the tongue of the sneaker, you could see the club motto "ICI C'EST PARIS".
The club then expanded their collaboration with Nike in 2024 with two Air Max Plus Drift colorways.
The sneakers appeared with SPG's logo in cursive letters on the tongue, while the design used a knit upper that had not been seen on the model before. The ‘Black’ version used gold accents, while the ‘White’ used navy blue and gold details.
Swarovski x Nike Air Max Plus
In another spectacular released for 2024, the Air Max Plus got a luxurious upgrade with a wave of Swarovski crystals. The ‘Moonlight’ colorway featured an all-black base, with the crystals accentuating the wavy lines of the shoe. In contrast, the ‘Sunset’ was an explosion of colour, with fiery red, orange and gold hues outlined in crystals.
Nike Air Max Plus: Answering Your Questions
Who designed the Nike TN?
Sean McDowell designed the Nike AM Plus before he even started at Nike. "I was thinking and drawing while relaxing on the beaches of Florida. That was sometimes my most creative phase," he recalls. Right after he was hired at Nike, in 1997, he did not shy away from the challenge of creating a running shoe. He himself was a passionate runner, so he also knew what potential wearers would value.
The shoe was to incorporate the Air innovation under the working title Sky Air, which used two opposing hemispheres to improve cushioning technology. Previously, 15 designs had already been rejected by the retailer.
When did the Nike Air Max TN come out?
The Nike Air Max TN silhouette first appeared in 1998 and was released under the name 'Plus'.
What is the Nike TN inspired by?
Many elements from nature inspired the design of the Nike TN. These included the tail fin of a whale, but also the palm trees under the beautiful Florida sky.
What does TN stand for?
The TN on the Nike Air Max TN stands for Tuned Air. Tuned Air cushioning technology consists of individual tuned pods in the sole, which provide cushioning and support for different parts of the foot.
What technology is in the Nike Air Max TN?
The Nike Air Max TN features Tuned Air technology, a unique cushioning system designed to provide enhanced stability and support while maintaining Nike’s signature Air Max comfort. The Air units are tuned to different levels of firmness in specific areas, offering more stability in high-impact zones and extra flexibility where needed.
Can Nike Air Max Plus be used for running?
The Air Max Plus was originally designed for performance running. The Air units provide cushioning, while the lightweight mesh on the upper adds breathability. The rubber outsole provides durable traction, and the overall shoe is designed for durability.
Is the Air Max Plus waterproof?
The AM Plus isn't completely waterproof, but it does have light protection.
What are the first OG colorways of the AM Plus?
The OG colorways are 'Tiger' and 'Hyper Blue’ and also released in 1998 were the 'Luna Blue' for WMNS and 'Pimento'. It's not entirely clear which one was the first shoe. If you ask the sneaker scene, you'll get different answers.
How does the Air Max Plus fit?
The Air Max Plus is true to size. If you have wider feet, consider whether the Air Max Plus 3 would be better for you, as the wider sole might be preferable.
How much does the AM Plus cost?
The Air Max Plus usually costs between €140-€170.
How do you tie the Air Max Plus?
For guidance on tying your Air Max Plus laces, check out our Ultimate Sneakerjagers Lacing Guide!
How do you clean Air Max Plus?
An Air Max Plus 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.
DO NOT put your sneakers in the washing machine. It can damage the TPU overlays and Air units.
Where can I buy Air Max Plus?
Do you have your eye on this model? With our sneaker search engine, you can browse the Nike Air Max Plus at different retailers and at different prices. Our release calendar also keeps you up to date on AMPlus restocks and new releases!
Popular Nike Air Max Plus Colorways
Nike have released many successful colorways on the AM Plus, and these are some of the most popular and all-time favourites.
Nike Air Max Plus '25th Anniversary' | FV0393-001
This colorway is a 25th Anniversary tribute to the Nike Air Max plus. Notable features of this special edition include its unique blue gradient design and a pattern reminiscent of crinkled paper.
In addition, the distinctive yellow TN logo can now be seen on the visible Air unit. Other elements are accented in black, including the TPU and leather overlays, laces, lining, and midsole.
Nike Air Max Plus OG 'Sunset' | BQ4629-001
This ‘Sunset’ colorway is often associated with the OG Tiger colorway due to their similar aesthetics.
The striking yellow-to-red gradient upper is inspired by Sean McDowell’s Florida sunsets, with black TPU overlays adding a great contrast to the bold look. The colorway was released in 2018 as part of the model’s 20th anniversary.
Nike Air Max Plus OG 'Hyper Blue' | BQ4629-003
The original ‘Hyper Blue’ colorway was re-released in 2018 and returned again in 2014.
The upper is made of blue gradient mesh, with contrasting bright orange Air units and black details in the TPU overlays, midsole and lacing.
Nike Air Max Plus OG 'Voltage Purple' | DX0755-500
The Nike Air Max Plus OG 'Voltage Purple' draws on its rich heritage with its iconic purple colorway, with the black mudguard and outsole contrasting perfectly with the white midsole and electric orange Swoosh and Air unit.
A special touch on this anniversary edition is a graphic of the four Air pods that sit in the heel on the insole.
Nike Air Max Plus 'Napoli' | HM0718-400
As the name suggests, the new Air Max TN 'Napoli' is inspired by the coastline and azure waters that define the city of Napoli on the western coast of southern Italy.
The sneaker's upper features a special digital wave pattern that is meant to represent the restless energy of the sea in motion.
Nike Air Max Plus 'Persian' | DB0682-100
The Nike Air Max BW 'Persian Violet' is one of the most popular colorways of all time, and the brand also brought it out on the Air Max Plus, to the fan's delight.
The TPU elements have a colour gradient from Persian Violet to Black, and the outsole and Swoosh also feature the famous purple colorway.
Nike Air Max Plus TN Drift 'Phantom Cacao Wow' | FD4290-001
The new generation TN series kicked off with the release of the ‘Cacao Wow'.
This colorway displays a striking gradient that runs from light brown to blue. The TPU exoskeleton has a sail-white hue, accented with brown along the edges. The Swooshes and Nike logo on the tongue complement in a light blue hue.
Nike Air Max Plus II ‘Valerian Blue/Ghost Green’ | CQ7754-400
This colorway is a popular choice on the Air Max Plus II, reminiscent of the OG Air Max Plus with blue and green gradient colours.
In this slightly different silhouette, the two-part sole with the two Air Units, TPU elements on the upper and characteristic TN logo on the shoe tongue give the model a modern look.
Nike Air Max Plus 3 'White' | CW1417-100
As the name suggests, the 'White' features an all-white colour scheme, offering a versatile and clean appearance suitable for all occasions.
The upper is constructed from mesh and synthetic leather, with TPU accents, giving it a more modern look while still paying homage to the original Air Max Plus design.
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