Air Max Are Back and Bigger Than Ever - Here's the Proof

It’s hard to ignore just how dominated the sneaker market has been by basketball silhouettes as of late. It seems that Dunks and Air Jordans have totally taken over, leaving a huge retro-runner sized gap in the market. While the Swoosh brand has been pushing the popular silhouettes, the label has also been quietly dropping high-heat Air Max models, bringing the famous designs back into the spotlight.

Birthed back in 1987 when Tinker Hatfield launched the original Air Max 1, the series has played a vital part in the rise of sneaker culture and has provided us with some incredible releases over the years too. Whether you’re an old-school Air Max head or totally new to the line, then now is a better time than ever to pick up a few timeless pairs to add to your collection.

Designed by Sergio Lozano after his impressive stint at Nike ACG, the Air Max 95 is one of the most beloved lifestyle sneakers of all time. Inspired by human anatomy, the kicks offer multiple Air units underfoot for improved comfort, along with a chunkier look than most runners. Seen here decked out in the “Light Bone Skeletal” colourway, the pair looks better than ever before and is crafted from premium materials throughout for a luxe look and feel. If you’re yet to own an AM95 then beware, as you’ll soon want to be copping plenty more once you realise just how wearable they are.

Taking us back to the roots, the Air Max 1 is easily one of the sleekest-looking trainers ever. This specific “Crepe Hemp” colourway was first launched back in 2004, and has since been a holy grail for many AM1 fans. Revisited for the silhouette’s 35th anniversary, the pair is now back and available to cop - if you’re quick enough. Details here include woven panels across the uppers, teal Swoosh logos and a brown suede mudguard, all helping to form the neat colourway.

Last but by no means least in our curated selection is the Nike Air Max 97 “Atlantic Neon”. Blending together elements from two popular colourways, Christian Tresser’s legendary silhouette looks better than ever before. Inspired by ‘90s mountain bikes and mother nature, the AM97 has remained a constant winner ever since its introduction, and there’s even rumours currently circulating that the OG “Silver Bullet” colourway will return later this year - we certainly hope so!