The Nike Air Max 1 is a common silhouette in 2023. Introduced in 1987, the sneaker has received many colorways in recent months. A few releases were extra special. Check out our top picks Air Max 1 releases of 2023 here.
The comeback of the Air Max 1
The Nike Air Max 1 seemed to have disappeared from the radar for quite some time. First released in the late 1980s, the sneaker was designed by none other than Tinker Hatfield. It was Nike's first silhouette to feature a visible Air unit, which gave the model a modern look.
After several OG colorways and general releases in recent years, the sneaker seemed to have disappeared from the roster. This year, thankfully, we see the model back on the shelves. With the comeback of the Air Max 1 '86 'Big Bubble' and the 'Chili' colorway, these are our top picks.
Air Max 1 '86 OG 'University Red'
Perhaps the most striking release of 2023, is the Air Max 1 '86 OG 'University Red'. Before the Air Max 1, as we all know it, was introduced in 1987, there was a predecessor. In 1986, the Air Max 1 appeared on the shelves with an enlarged Air unit. However, this Air unit did not withstand cold temperatures well and could rupture with large temperature changes. The 'Big Bubble' was removed from the shelves and made its comeback more than 35 years later in 2023.
Air Max Day 2023 marked the return of the 'Big Bubble' and celebrated it with the release the '86 OG 'University Red'. The OG colorway combines the colors white, light gray, and red. The enlarged Air unit in the midsole provides cushioning and comfort. The pair comes with a custom shoebox.
'Shima Shima III' - 2023
Another notable release from 2023 is the Nike Air Max 1 Premium 'Shima Shima III' - 2023. The sneaker takes its inspiration from the 2003 'Shima Shima' pack, consisting of the Nike Air Trainer 1, Air Max 1, and Nike Dunk High. The 'Shima Shima III' variant shares the same colors as its predecessor and comes with 'Plum Eclipse' overlays. The striped pattern in the collar gives the sneaker a playful look.
Nike Air Max 1 'Mica Green'
The highly anticipated Nike Air Max 1 'Mica Green' dropped in June 2023. The sneaker takes its inspiration from the previously released 'Mica Green Volt' colorway (2017) and comes with the same 'Mica Green' color on the overlays. The upper is mesh and suede overlays are placed on the center panel.
Corduroy PRM 'Coral Stardust'
The Corduroy PRM 'Coral Stardust' is an eye-catching colorway. The sneaker uses premium corduroy and features a fresh color combination. The upper is pale pink in color and the center panel features a coral pink Swoosh. The collar comes in a deep red colorway.
Nike Air Max 1 PRM 'Slate Blue'
The 'Slate Blue' is a striking colorway of the Air Max 1. The details on the heel pay tribute to the forests of Oregon, the birthplace of designer Tinker Hatfield. The upper is made of mesh and arrives in a white colorway. The gray and blue overlays combined with red details give the sneaker a unique twist.
Air Max 1 '86 'Blue Safari'
After the release of the 'Big Bubble' in the 'University Red' colorway, the model also appeared in the 'Blue Safari' colorway in June 2023. The sneaker has a striking look and uses the well-known 'Safari' print on the mudguard, which was also designed by Tinker Hatfield. The sneaker has a yellowed sole, resulting in a vintage look.
Air Max 1 WMNS 'Sanddrift'
The 'Sanddrift' colorway is one for the ladies. The sneaker has a clean colorway and combines the colors white, beige and off-white. The upper is mesh and has leather overlays. Nike Air brandings appear on the heel and tongue.
Nike Air Max 1 'Athletic Department'
The Nike Air Max 1 'Athletic Department' was recently released and features a sleek colorway. The upper combines shades of white, light gray, and black. Yellow details on the tongue, heel, and outsole give the pair a subtle twist.
Upcoming releases
Nike Air Max 1 'Clear Jade'
The Nike Air Max 1 'Clear Jade' has not yet been released, but is definitely worth checking out. The sneaker, which previously appeared on the Internet under the name 'Aquatone,' has a fresh colorway. The upper is mesh and the overlays are leather and suede, and the striking blue color makes it a release to absolutely keep an eye on.
Air Max 1 'Urawa'
The 'Uruwa' colorway pays tribute to the Japanese soccer club Urawa Red Diamonds. The sneaker combines the colors of the club's away jersey and is the follow-up to the 2004 Air Max 1 'Uruwa' release, which used the home jersey as inspiration. The upper is mesh and the leather overlays give the sneaker a chic look.
'Chili' - 2023
The classic 'Chili' returns. The 'Chili' colorway appeared in 2003 and now, some 20 years later, gets a re-release. The pair comes with a few differences compared to its predecessor but uses the same color combination. The upper is mesh and comes in white color. The red and black details contrast well with the upper.
Nike Air Max 1 Anniversary OG 'Royal Blue'
Finally, we have the Nike Air Max 1 in the Anniversary OG 'Royal Blue' colorway. The OG 'Royal Blue' colorway was first released in 1987 and is a favorite among OG sneaker enthusiasts. The upper is mesh and comes with suede and leather overlays. The 'Royal Blue' color appears on the mudguard, Swoosh, tongue, and heel.
These were some of our favorite Air Max 1 colorways of 2023. Keep an eye on our release calendar for the latest releases.