The Nike Air Max 1 "Design By Japan" Is As Clean As They Come

As we inch further into 2023, it’s pretty clear that Nike fans have one thing on their mind right now: Air Max Day. There are already some great releases lined up for the March event (we’re eagerly awaiting the Big Bubble drop), but we have to say that this latest AM1 effort has caught our eye too. Designed by the Japanese SNKRS community, we’re hoping that the festivities will see the Air Max 1 “Design By Japan” get a global launch date, as it’s easily one of the best AM1 colourways we’ve seen in a while.

A collaborative effort between the Swoosh and its community, the “Design by Japan” Air Max 1 sees the pair arrive in easy-to-style earth tones, as shades of grey, olive and tan make up the majority of the uppers. White mesh underlays give way to green tumbled leather overlays, while a smooth tan-coloured panel wraps itself around the heel.

Nike branding arrives in the form of a bright white Swoosh and a white wordmark, though tongue tabs have been given more of a retro flair with the Beaverton brand’s vintage-style logo. Underfoot, yellow midsoles give off a pre-aged vibe, and a classic visible Air Unit peeps out from the back foot. This comes finished with a gum outsole, and the limited-edition pair also comes with an Air Max 1 charm in celebration of the sneaker’s history.

Right now, there’s no release info surrounding the Air Max 1 “Designed by Japan”, but it’s fair to assume that they’ll be dropping as part of the Air Max Day celebrations. Whether they’ll see a global release or be a Japan-exclusive is still yet to be revealed too, but if you’re into them, be sure to hit those release reminders just in case!

Up next, Nike teases its collaboration with Corteiz.