FEATURED: The 11 Best Nike Air Max 1 Collaborations Of All Time
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Air Max 1 Past Releases
Air Max 1 History
Nike introduced Nike Air cushioning in 1979 with the Nike Air Tailwind, brought it to basketball in 1982 with the Nike Air Force 1, and to its front man’s lineup with the Air Jordan 1 in 1985, but it wasn’t until 1987 that Nike Air was put on display for all to see with the Nike Air Max 1.
The Nike Air Max 1 was first released in 1987, designed by legendary footwear designer Tinker Hatfield. Hatfield introduced a revolutionary concept by making the shoe’s air cushioning unit visible through a small window in the midsole. Inspired by the exposed structures of the Centre Pompidou in Paris, this bold design choice made the Air Max 1 an instant icon. Initially created as a running shoe, the Air Max 1 was celebrated not only for its comfort and performance but also for its striking aesthetic.
Over the years, the Air Max 1 has evolved through numerous versions and colorways, cementing its status as a staple in sneaker culture. Nike continued to innovate, releasing the Air Max 1 Ultra in 2015 with a lighter, more flexible sole. The shoe has also been a canvas for high-profile collaborations with brands and designers such as Patta, atmos, and Travis Scott, resulting in highly sought-after limited editions.
The Air Max 1 has transcended its original purpose as a performance shoe to become a lifestyle icon, inspiring the celebrated Air Max lineup. From streetwear to high fashion, it remains a symbol of both Nike’s technological innovation and its influence on global sneaker culture.
