Attention all Nike Air Max fans: If you've always been interested in any kind of Air Max sneaker, you've come to the right place! Because I present you, divided into three blogs, the complete Air Max timeline - from the creation until today! Today you will have the first part, then later the second and third parts. After that you will be enlightened and you should really know everything about Air Max. I'm sure that after the three blogs you will want to have one of the Air Max models. Be curious!
The secret of Air Max success? A passion for science! They aim to revolutionize the sneaker experience and continually develop Air technology in innovative ways with each new release.
To better understand the swoosh-decorated sneakers worn today, we must first explore the history of Air technology. That's why I present the complete 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. The Nike Air Technology consists of compressed air in a robust and very flexible bag, which gives more flexibility and suspension. And this without affecting the structure. The Air-Sole units keep their given shape with elasticity, less impact and keep the sneaker tight and light. The revolutionary idea to give air to a sneaker came from former NASA engineer Frank Rudy. The Air Tailwind 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 inside 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 is difficult to choose just one.
1989 - Nike Air Max Light
Like the Air Max 1, but less heavy - this is how Nike optimised its successful silhouette with EVA foam for a brand new feel.
1990 - Nike Air Max 90
Of the classics, the Air Max 90 seems the most comfortable. Originally called the Air Max 3, the Air Max 90 has completely re-launched 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 in the popularity of Air Max is the fact that there are so many OG colours that are iconic today. This includes the Persian-violet OG iteration of the Air Max BW. The Air Max Classic BW was originally a slimmer version of the Air Max 90 with a larger air window. (BW=Big Window) The latest update to the Air Max BW is a full length Air sole borrowed from the Air Max 97.
1992 - Nike Air Max 180
Time to get playful or? The Nike Air Max 180 was the first Nike sneaker that showed the Air technology on its outsole. It was in many ways a departure from the proven formula of the early Air Max.
1993 - Nike Air Max 93
The Air Max 93 blow moulded and adopted 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 stay at the start, because tomorrow we will continue with the second part of the Air Max Timeline! Just check our Newsblog - there you will not miss anything.