The Nike Air Max 90, then known as the Air Max III, was first released in 1990. It quickly became a popular high-performance running shoe thanks to its innovative midsole design. The shoe's popularity among runners can be attributed in part to its lightweight and breathable mesh upper. It offered superior support and cushioning thanks to a sizable Air Max unit in the heel.

The "Obsidian Track Red" Nike Air Max 90 Leather G S features a navy blue leather upper with red accents on the tongue logo, heel branding, and outsole. Around the Air Max unit, hints of grey contrast with the white swoosh and midsole. This color scheme combines navy blue, red, white, and grey to produce a fashionable pattern, which is also available on the Air Max 90 Leather PS and the Air Max 90 CB.