The Air Max 90 began life as the Air Max III when it debuted in 1990. And it drew design elements from its two predecessors that sparked and fueled Nike’s “Air Revolution” begun in 1987.
To the ’90s and beyond
The most visible of those carryovers was the plastic adjustable lace tab set at the eyelets. It’s designed to give you the option of a narrower or wider lacing pattern to customize your fit, as well as offering a hit of color in the midfoot part of the upper.
The Air Max 90 maintains the double-layered foxing of its immediate predecessor, the Air Max Light (1989), which offers another option for colorblocking.
The hits of color keep coming with the colorblocking around the window to the Max Air unit under the heel continues. It’s also visible on the “Air Max” inset directly above it and the “Nike Air” plate on the heel counter.
And of course, all of the Air Max entries carry on that studded waffle outsole that Nike co-founder Bill Bowerman concepted from his wife’s waffle maker.
Max out your Air
As the heat around the Air Max running shoes grew, Nike expanded its Max Air-cushioned offerings. That included the Air Max Plus (1998), which features wavy reinforcements on the upper that were inspired by the palm trees that designer Sean McDowell recalled from the beaches of Florida. Behind those reinforcements lie a brilliant color gradient that bring to mind a sunset.
Nike’s Air Max 95 also features a wavy look, but its inspiration came from the human body. The upper is meant to resemble a rib cage and spine, two biomechanical marvels that both move and flex strongly and naturally.
Air apparel
With so many options for men’s Nike Air Max styles, there are plenty colors and style in apparel to complete your look. From the allover colors of tees and tanks to the lightweight jackets that keep you comfortable, active, and moving.
