A technology turned myth. The cultural relevance of Air Max went beyond performance to become the most impactful innovation in sneaker history — a breakthrough that continues to evolve each season.
It all started with Frank Rudy, an aerospace engineer who pitched his invention — a gas-filled unit placed in the sole to absorb shock and bounce back — to various brands. Nike was the last to be approached, and the only one that said yes.
The first shoe to feature the Air system was the Tailwind in 1978, but the real revolution came in 1986 with the debut of the first Air Max. These models pushed the size of the Air units to the max — and made them visible for the first time.
Air Max: innovation and evolution guaranteed
Designed by Tinker Hatfield, the first Air Max laid the foundation for future icons: Air Max Light (originally Air Max II), Air Max 90 (Air Max III), Air Max BW (Big Window), and Air Max 93. With each new version, the legend grew. From the forefoot Air units of the Air Max 95, to full-length cushioning in the Air Max 97, and then to the Air Max 360, which eliminated foam entirely — Air Max kept evolving with cutting-edge technologies.
Alongside its technical progress, Air Max built a reputation on the streets, associated with different subcultures and introducing concepts like limited editions, long before they became mainstream.
Find your pair of Nike Air Max at FOOTDISTRICT
At FOOTDISTRICT you’ll find a selection of the most exclusive and innovative Air Max models. Browse our collection of Air Max 1, 90, 95, 97, TN, Plus, DN8 and more — and discover the technology that captivated the world.
