The Nike Air Max, crafted by Tinker Hatfield, made its debut in 1987, introducing a revolutionary cushioning system that forever altered the trajectory of athletic footwear. Inspired by the inside-out architecture of the Pompidou Centre in Paris, Hatfield created the first-ever visible Air unit, delivering not just exceptional comfort but a design element that was unlike anything seen before. The line expanded to include models like the Air Max 90, 95, and 97, each iteration pushing boundaries of design and technology. Numerous collaborations with high-profile brands and artists, including OFF-WHITE, Supreme, and Travis Scott, have cemented the Air Max's status as a timeless icon in sneaker culture.
Nike Air Max 90
The Nike Air Max 90, designed by Tinker Hatfield, was first introduced to the world in 1990 as the third iteration of the Air Max series. Hatfield, whose innovative vision had already reshaped the sneaker landscape, continued to push boundaries with this release, unveiling a larger, more visible Air unit and vibrant designs that made the shoe an instant hit. The shoe's iconic design, featuring ribbed plastic panels and multiple lacing options, quickly became synonymous with 90s streetwear. Over the years, the Air Max 90 has been reimagined through numerous collaborations with brands like Patta, atmos, and KAWS, adding to the sneaker's storied legacy and securing its place in the annals of sneaker history.
About the Brand
Nike was founded in 1964 by University of Oregon track coach Bill Bowerman and his former student Phil Knight, initially operating under the name Blue Ribbon Sports as a distributor of Japanese running shoes. In 1971, the company rebranded as Nike, inspired by the Greek goddess of victory, and introduced the Swoosh logo, symbolizing speed and movement. Nike revolutionized athletic footwear with the development of Air cushioning technology in 1979, which provided superior shock absorption and energy return and became a defining feature in iconic products like the Air Force 1 and Air Max series. The Air Jordan line, launched in 1984 through a partnership with basketball legend Michael Jordan, bridged the gap between sports performance and lifestyle, becoming a cultural phenomenon and increasing Nike's popularity. Through continued innovation and collaborations with designers and brands such as Virgil Abloh's Off-White and Supreme, Nike has solidified its position as a leader in both athletic and fashion markets.
