


Those were the predominant buzzwords in the 90s - and they all found a steady companion in the Nike Air. Not only did this set the stage for innovations in athletic shoes for years to come, but it also bridged the gap between fashion and sport. For the first time in sporting history, design and engineering were seeing eye to eye. That’s when iconic designer, Tinker Hatfield, came up with the Air Max 1 - a revolutionary new design with visible Air units. People were looking for something new and unique from Nike, whose former glory was somewhat plateauing. Music, art and design were moving away from a conventional, utilitarian approach to a more creative and inspirational one. In 1978, researchers at the University of Tennessee found that athletes running in Air actually used less energy than in conventional running shoes.Īdditional Resource – 20 Fun Facts about running Air Through the 80s To everyone’s surprise, they sold out in just 24 hours - despite the $50 price tag ( about $210 today).īut the Air didn’t survive based on hype alone. They were sent to six Hawaiian stores ahead of the Honolulu Marathon. The marketing team decided to release just 250 pairs before the actual launch. In 1978, Nike rolled out the Tailwind, the first running shoe featuring Air cushioning. Note – Check my guide on when running was invented. Phil took a prototype for a test run and was amazed by its smooth ride. In 1977, after facing 23 rejections, Frank presented the idea to Nike co-founder Phil Knight. His theory was that tiny bags of air in the soles of athletic shoes could soften the impact. It all started when aerospace engineer Franklin Rudy came up with a seemingly crazy idea. Made primarily in the U.S., Nike Air is one of the finest examples of sustainable innovation. These are placed in the midsole under the forefoot, heel or both those areas. In Nike Air technology, pressurized nitrogen is encapsulated in sturdy but flexible bags called Nike Air sole units. Let’s take a look at how Nike Air technology has evolved through the ages and what makes it so incredibly popular today. Since then, these air-cushioned running shoes have garnered immense popularity - not just for their superior performance but also as a fashion statement. If there are any remaining pairs they will be available in-store at our Yorkville location.When the first pair of Nike Air sneakers made its appearance more than 40 years ago, it took the sneaker world by storm. The midsole also holds a single Max-Air unit at the heel with a rubber outsole below.ĭropping on Saturday, March 26th at 10AM EST, the Men's Nike Air Max 1 PRM 'Blueprint' will be launched on our webstore. Multiple and bot orders will be cancelled resulting in restocking fee charged. A subtle miniature Swoosh embroidered at the forefoot in contrasting white threading - not to forget the embroidered Nike Futura logo at the heel. Constructed from reflective materials, premium leather, breathable mesh, glow in the dark outsole, brush off, and grid mesh. The design Nike Air Max 1 PRM "Blueprint" features a c lassic blueprint and technical drawing juxtaposed over a globe, map of the USA, and state of Oregon to illustrate the Air Max 1's journey from its inception to its future as a global phenomenon. As part of Nike's roll out for Air Max Day 2022, the Air Max 1 is reintroduced with premium materials and details make-up the latest classic to celebrate 3.26 around the globe.
