When Tinker Hatfield first gazed up at the Centre Pompidou in Paris, he probably didn't know this building would inspire one of the most important sneakers of all time. But that inside-out architecture clearly left a lasting impression. Tinker would later reference the Pompidou as the major inspiration behind his design of the Air Max 1.
This was the first sneaker to showcase a visible Air Unit. Just like that dramatic building in the Parisian capital, a feature ordinarily hidden was now put in the spotlight. Over three decades later and this technology is still considered the most iconic in sneaker fashion.
Given the history behind the design, an upcoming pack to celebrate that building is set to be a collectors dream. The Air Max 1Â 'Centre Pompidou' launches this September.
This homage arrives in two styles known as "By Day"; and "By Night". The former represents the colourful piping of the Centre Pompidou which put all the mechanical systems of the building on show. It caused outrage when it was first unveiled for going against all established rules of architecture.
A vibrant mix of 'University Red' and 'Royal Blue' contrasts against a predominant base shade of white. The look is far more subdued to the "By Night"; rendition thanks to a grey-scale theme. Both pairs include a special logo with 3 P's for Paris, Pompidou and Pipes.
The Air Max 1 'Centre Pompidou' Collection launches September 20th and stock is thought to be limited. Stay glued to @thesolesupplier for more updates and alerts on the run up to launch.
